Dream Big

Aigul Igembayeva has over 3 years of illustration experience developing t-shirts prints, illustrations for magnets, souvenirs, logos, patterns, hand lettering works and much more. She did not stop there and learn new things every month, taking new courses to improve skills and expand her horizons. Aigul passionate about warm, analog-looking drawings and illustrations, watercolor technique and hand lettering. Before going for her passion in arts, she worked at some of the world’s largest companies that taught her to value deadlines and to able to translate business needs into artwork. My portfolio: https://www.aigullittlea.com/

What should everyone know about you?
AI: I have over 3 years of illustration experience developing t-shirts prints, illustrations for magnets, souvenirs, logos, patterns, hand lettering works and many more.

I did not stop there and I learn new things every month, taking new courses to improve my skills and expand my horizons. Before going for my passion in arts, I worked at some of the world’s largest companies that taught me to value deadlines and to able to translate business needs into artwork. I’m passionate about warm, analog-looking drawings and illustrations, watercolor and ink techniques and hand lettering.

How would you describe what you do?
AI: I draw patterns and illustrations for children market and home decor market.

Why did you choose to be a designer?
AI: I tried different career paths over the years, and realized that my way to express myself is through artwork. I would like my illustrations and designs to contribute to people feeling warm, cozy, safe and aesthetically pleased in their home environment.

What steps did you take to become a designer?
AI: It was long path: I took lessons in drawing in Moscow, I studied Adobe programs, calligraphy, and took course of typography at British Higher Design School in Moscow. Now I am learning at e-courses of Lilla Rogers, I’m constantly learning. I believe that all my experience and courses gives me diverse experience.

If you weren’t a designer what would you be?
AI: I would become a leader of the green schools for children or the owner of a small coffee shop, or a music critic.

How did you get started in design?
AI: My first job in design was working part time as the illustrator for a few projects: Illustrations for Istanbul souvenirs and tourist agency, design patterns for one start-up in California and preparing t-shirt print for children’s surf school in Puerto-Rico.

What do you like about what you do?
AI: I like drawing process, trying new techniques and tools, digital and physical.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
AI: I want to have a small brand that is engaged in the production of home decor, where fabrics with my decor are made to meet highest environmental standards. And I want to be happy 🙂

What sparked your interest in design?
AI: I think that the environment where I grew up. My father is an artist. Since childhood I were surrounded by paintings, painters, art books.

Are there any types of clothing/footwear/accessories that you avoid wearing?
AI: High heels and short skirts

What are you fascinated by at the moment and how does it feed into your work?
AI: Now I’m fascinated by the discovery that a person can be happy just like that. And this is reflected in some of my illustrations.

What is the biggest lesson that you have learned since you started your career?
AI: Do not be afraid. Boldly stepping into the unknown. Comfort zone exists only in our minds, but not in the reality, therefore anything is possible.

What advice would you give to young designers?
AI: At the beginning of the way, ask yourself: Why am I doing this? What is my mission? What I want to give to the world through my illustrations, designs? This question will help you determine the markets.

What would you like to achieve before the end of the year?
AI: I would like to explore more markets, learn how they work. And maybe to find an agent 🙂

Are you superstitious or do you have any rules you live by?
AI: I believe in the power of small steps towards a goal. I believe that by doing a little every day, you can do everything and reach your big goal and dream.

What’s your motto?
AI: “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” Rumi

Learn more about Aigul on StylePortfolios, Instagram , Facebook  and LinkedIn

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