The Best of Both Worlds with Yana Harutyunyan

The Best of Both Worlds with Yana Harutyunyan

Yana Harutyunyan is a new talent in the ever-growing live event illustration scene, combining her love for fashion illustration with the excitement of live events. She reveals how she masterfully blends traditional and digital techniques to bring fabrics, textures, and movement to life. Sharing her artistic insights and passion for storytelling, she also reflects on the unique thrill and challenges of illustrating in real-time at events.

How do you approach bringing textures, fabrics and details of fashion designs to life in your illustrations?

The rendering of fabric textures is a fascinating and multifaceted creative process that is both complex and simple. I use different techniques in my work, harmoniously combining both live materials and digital format. 

For each type of fabric, I use a unique approach: soft, smooth lines and thin strokes to convey the lightness and airiness of silk and satin, and at other times, bright contrasts, highlights, sharp lines, and roughness. This allows me to convey textures and details more vividly and effectively, so that the viewer can feel the atmosphere of the image.

What role does narrative play in your fashion illustrations? How do you bring the narrative to life in your work?

I always try to bring something unique to my work that reflects my individual style. Through narrative I strive to create illustrations that capture the viewer through dynamic poses, lines, textures. It is important to me that each illustration not only attracts the eye, but also evokes emotion, making the viewer think about the image created by the designer. 

How do you balance between artistic expression and conveying the essence of a fashion collection or garment?

The balance is not easy, but it is doable! I always start with a deep understanding of the concept of the collection: what emotions and ideas the designer wanted to convey, what atmosphere they wanted to create. Inspired by this, I open up a space of creative freedom, creating my own unique artistic interpretation. 

Thus, each illustration is not only pleasing to the eye, but also accurately reflects the designers' intention, creating a harmonious interaction between art and fashion.

Which artists, fashion designers or eras have most influenced your illustration style and why?

My work has been heavily influenced by the work of amazing illustrators such as David Downton and René Gruau - true masters who inspire me, their work is filled with emotion, atmosphere and a unique style.

As for fashion designers, my choices fall on Galliano, Dior, Valentino and Schiaparelli. Each of them brings something special to the fashion world - whether it's bold shapes, unexpected combinations or a subtle sense of style. Their influence on me can be talked about endlessly; each of them becomes a magical source of inspiration for my creativity!

How do you manage to keep your illustrations fresh and relevant in an industry that is constantly changing with trends?

I always try to keep up with the latest trends in fashion and design, I attend exhibitions, read specialised magazines and blogs. I regularly try new techniques, styles and materials to keep abreast of current trends and be inspired by new ideas. This allows me to go beyond the usual and bring something new and original to my work. Communication with colleagues and clients helps me to get valuable feedback, allowing me to understand what works and what needs improvement.

These approaches allow me to keep my illustrations up to date and find new sources of inspiration.

What tools or mediums do you prefer when illustrating fashion - digital, traditional, or a combination of both? Why?

I prefer a combination of both digital and traditional materials in my illustrations. Each of these approaches has its own unique advantages.

I like to use watercolour, pencils or ink as they give the illustrations a special texture and soulfulness, liveliness, and a slightly unpredictable result. 

Using digital programs such as Procreate gives more flexibility in editing and the ability to easily experiment with colours and shapes.

By combining traditional and digital methods, I get to combine the best of both worlds, to be more productive. For example, I can start with a traditional drawing and then scan it and refine it digitally, adding details or other elements.

How do you approach illustrating movement and fabric motion, especially when depicting runway looks?

I often start with quick sketches, capturing basic poses and fabric movement. This helps to capture the dynamics of the image as well as the interaction of the fabric with the body.

In general, I try to convey the mood and character of each image, using different methods and approaches to make the illustrations look lively and dynamic. For example, wavy lines can create a sense of lightness and flowing movement, while sharp angles can convey contrast and energy.

What is the hardest part of fashion illustration - conveying intricate details, conveying a mood or something else?

The most challenging part of fashion illustration for me is working with embroidery. Fashion images are often full of intricate details - fabric textures and intricate design elements - and it can be difficult to successfully convey them while maintaining an artistic vision. But it is no less challenging to convey mood. You need to find a fine balance between realism and artistic interpretation to capture not only the visual beauty, but also the emotional component of the image.

Each of these aspects takes time, patience and a lot of practice. 

How do you use colour theory in your work to evoke emotion or emphasise key design elements?

I use contrasting colour combinations to highlight key design elements. For example, a bright accent on clothing or accessories against a neutral background can draw attention to important details. In addition, by playing with hues and saturation, I create depth and texture, which adds emotional weight to the illustrations.

How do collaborations with fashion brands or designers influence your creative process and the direction of your work?

Collaborating with fashion brands and designers opens up completely new horizons for me. After all, each brand has its own unique philosophy and style, and this is what inspires me to explore new themes and concepts. These interactions not only enrich my creative process, but also contribute to my personal and professional growth. Each project becomes an opportunity to go beyond the usual and create something truly unique.

How did you get into live event illustration, and what drew you to it?

Oh, it was an incredible story! My first introduction to the world of live illustration was at Fashion Week. At the time, I was just starting my journey in illustration and discovering the behind the scenes of large-scale events. I was in awe of my colleagues' work, their creativity inspired me! Drawing real-time guests and models at such a vibrant event was truly exciting. Since then, I have expanded my horizons and participated in other smaller but no less exciting events.

What is the most challenging aspect of working at live events?

The most challenging aspect is working live events. The atmosphere is always dynamic, with lots of people waiting for their illustrations, and you have to have time to immerse yourself in what's happening. It requires concentration and quick reactions, which can be difficult at times. But that's what makes the work so exciting! And the emotions of the guests are also incredibly inspiring - they give such energy that fatigue and discomfort are simply unnoticeable.

Can you tell us about some of the events you've had the opportunity to work at?

I have relatively little experience in this industry, only about two years. But already my schedule is packed to the brim and I'm proud of it! I especially remember my first Fashion Week - it was my dream and I was immensely happy to realise it. The rest of the events were equally exciting, but the first one will always hold a special place in my heart. My regular events include client days, store openings and of course unforgettable weddings, which fill my work with romance and joy!

See more from Yana Harutyunyan:

Telegram: @HarutyunyanY

Email:  yana.mbox@gmail.com

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/i.am.yana.art?utm_medium=copy_link

Behance: https://www.behance.net/yanambox14e3

 

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