Entering the Whimsical World of Liuba Draws​

By Marianna Cerini, May 11, 2016

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In a world where software-generated graphics are widely used and handwriting is increasingly ditched in favor of typing on tablets and keyboards, illustrations feel almost emotional; a more intimate way of expressing creativity. Enter the fantastical realm of Liuba Draws. The brainchild of Russian freelance illustrator Liuba Vladimirova, the project-cum-venture is all about sweet, whimsical drawings applied to everyday objects – cards, mugs, iPhone covers or beautiful posters – to remind us that hand-drawn prints and sketches can be more enticing than a font you’d find in inDesign. 

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“I have two main styles of drawing,” says Vladimirova, who’s self-taught. “One is more sketch-like, the other more detail-oriented, done using watercolor techniques.” 

Each artwork takes cues from fairytales and the natural world, but also urban, everyday Beijing scenes – a jianbing cart, and grannies dancing against the city skyline in the background. Our favorites (though it’s really hard to pick) are her animal iPhone covers (RMB50) and the ‘Duo He Shui’ (drink more water, RMB80) mug, which we think should be the cup of choice for anyone in Beijing. Cards start at RMB25, key chains are between RMB40-45 and posters vary according to size and subject. Oh, and she works on commission too. 

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Liuba Draws is releasing more prints at the Bookworm Flea Market on Saturday, May 14. Find her stall to see what she’s been working on. Also, check www.liubadraws.com (VPN required) and liubadraws.tumblr.com (no VPN required), or contact her on liubadraws@hotmail.com or WeChat (username: liubatje)

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