Heya, my name is Katya. If you’re looking for a:
Communications and design strategist
Solutions-focused professional
Thoughtful storyteller
Feature projects
I lead award-winning creative projects
At the beginning of my career, I made the decision to learn as much as I can about various platforms, media, design styles, and technical skills. Having these various puzzle pieces helps me visualize an overarching strategy of what needs to be done to get to the goal.
I develop creative solutions
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a project or initiative. Maybe you want to enhance a campaign to the world or turn a side project into something more. I can help with that. I develop creative solutions that’s driven by strategy and stories.
I’m a visual storyteller
Illustrating from experience
Everything begins and ends with a story. I create digital illustrations based on experiences, observations, and uncertainty. Every illustration should have a meaning and personal relation to what I’ve been through or can empathize with.
Staying rooted in the present
My first form of art was sketching. As a form of self-care and staying rooted in the present, I do a lot of visual journaling. When the conditions are right, I sketch on-location as much as I can. When reminiscing previous travels, I base sketches from my travel photos.
Contributing to local magazines
I develop visuals to go with the storytelling of various artists across Canada. I’m a contributing illustrator for Ricepaper Magazine, an online platform that features Asian-Canadian literature, culture and the arts since 1994.
I enjoy learning new things
In two weeks – from conceptualization to animation – I created this video.
With a tight approvals deadline while having to work within the University of British Columbia’s brand guidelines, this was a fun challenge for me.
Being experienced with the Adobe Creative Suite (CC), I was able to enhance my skills and knowledge of Premiere, Photoshop and Illustrator during the construction of this animation.
As a designer and communicator, I take it upon myself to always try new things, improve on what I know, and apply these skills to all the work that I do.