Zhenya Oliinyk

born in Kyiv, embarked on her educational journey at the Taras Shevchenko Kyiv National University, Institute of Journalism from 2010 to 2014, followed by a Master’s degree in Cultural Studies from the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy until 2016 and courses at the Projector Design School. Oliinyk began her professional journey at Radio Liberty/Radio Free Europe, followed by a stint at the Information Centre for Human Rights. Since 2018, she has emerged as a successful freelance illustrator, creating potent visuals for various esteemed organizations like »The New Yorker«, »Berliner Zeitung«, Council of Europe, and United Nations, and winning accolades like the iJungle Illustration Awards 2020 – Merit Award in Editorial.

Oliinyk’s unique blend of illustration and cultural commentary sets her apart. She weaves the essence of contemporary societal issues into her works, making them not just visually appealing but also thought-provoking. Particularly notable are her simplistic yet powerful black and white comic strips, a medium through which she articulates her experiences and reflections amidst the ongoing Russian war in Ukraine. Oliinyk employs humor as a tool to express darker or sadder feelings, creating a unique sense of creative resilience. Oliinyk often draws a parallel between her past journalistic endeavors and her current artistic

work. She regards her comics as independent texts and likens her creative process to writing a column. Utilizing distinct stylistic devices, such as shadows, shapes, jagged lines, and vivid colors, she crafts a narrative that is both personal and universally. The narrative of Zhenya Oliinyk’s life is one of resilience, creativity, and the capacity to translate complex socio-political realities into artistic works that resonate globally. It’s no wonder she’s a respected figure in the realm of illustration, merging her journalistic roots, cultural studies, and illustrative prowess into an influential creative career. The author lives in Kyiv.