Janna Prosvirina, aka Janna Fairy Art, is a professional fairy and fantasy artist based in Austria, Europe. She lives in a little town close to beautiful forests, mountains and the lakes of Salzkammergut. The beauty of nature around her is the main source of inspiration for her art. Her favourite medium to create artwork with is watercolour. Although she's tried different things like acrylics, coloured pencils and pastels she always comes back to watercolour. She loves it for its flow and the variety of textures one can achieve. It is difficult and easy to use at the same time. It can behave unpredictably but this is what she loves about it most!
How long have you been illustrating and what made you start?
I have been doing art all my life, it is my true passion. Since December 2008 I am a self employed artist working from my home studio.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I get inspiration from everywhere, but nature legends and mythology are probably the biggest sources. Listening to good music can also move me to draw and paint.
Where is your favourite place to illustrate?
In my home studio surrounded by the things that inspire me - old books, nature objects and my curious cats. I have a beautiful view of the Alps from a big window in front of my working desk, that always help to get in the mood to draw and paint.
What are your illustrating/colouring material essentials?
I would mostly sketch digitally using my Wacom Tablet. Once I am happy with a sketch I would print in on a heavy 300 Ib watercolor paper. I color my work using artist quality watercolor paints (Daniel Smiths), Polychromos colored pencils and Pebeo white ink for small details.
What’s the piece of work that you’re most proud of or enjoyed doing the most?
It it hard to tell, because I enjoy doing art and love all my pieces. But if I am to pick only one, it would be my illustration “Deirdre”. It is a personal piece. I was going through a very difficult period of time when I created it, back then art helped me to hold on and to believe in myself again.
Surround yourself with supportive and creative people. Join art communities and groups on social media, you can find a lot of interesting information on coloring, tips and tutorials there. Buy the best art supplies you can afford. Do not worry about the end result just enjoy doing art!
