Featured Shop: Yury Velikanov

is a Russian artist who love truly embodies “the sky’s limit.” While most people have a hard time pursuing their passion because they’re scared of how it’ll turn out, Yury faces it head-on and is happier than ever. Today, we got the opportunity to speak with Yury to learn more about his creative journey.

Can you start off by telling us a little bit about yourself and your story?

My name is Yuri. I am happy graphic designer who’s currently living and working in Russia. My specializations include vector graphics, web design, and identities. I love to travel and really enjoy my job. Although I tried a lot of different professions before becoming a designer, it was a way for me to explore who I am and ultimately lead me to my passion.

How did your creative journey start? Is this a path you always knew was meant for you?

As an artist, were you self-taught or did you have a formal education?

I’m self-taught. The best part about it is that I get to learn something new every day.

Out of everything you do, is there a specific medium that you like to focus on?

To be honest, I love all of my work because I make what I want without any limitations. If I had to choose, I like creating flat icons and logos the most.

What’s the inspiration behind your creativity?

The world around me–architecture, culture, people, traditions, etc.

What has contributed most to your growth as a creative?

My personal desire to create and my curiosity has contributed most to my growth because I just do what I want.

Can you explain the process that you go through when designing something?

Most of time, I memorize ideas in my head then implement it on the computer. Unlike many artists, I don’t have a long preparatory process because I like to do everything in the moment once inspiration comes to me.

Do you have any exciting projects currently in the works?

I have a few projects I’m working on right now, but it’s a secret! You’ll just have to wait and see.

How did you and Creative Market find each other?

I found Creative Market on accident one day in 2015, and I’m so glad that I did. I find the platform very interesting and unique, and I think that many designers will agree with me.

What’s your favorite thing about being part of the Creative Market community? Have you found it beneficial?

I’ve found it really useful when it comes to communicating with other like-minded creative people to discuss new projects, receive feedback, and to work on the mistakes and learn new things. Because of Creative Market, all of this is possible.

Looking back on your creative journey, is there anything you wish you could have done differently?

I used to want to many things but not so much anymore because I learned that everything happens for a reason. It’s better to create a new than to fix something.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

Wow, that’s hard. There’s so much that I want to tell younger self. A few things would be listen to your heart, do not give up, do only what you’re passionate about, laugh and smile more, and never stop discovering new things.

Keep the conversation going!

This chat doesn’t have to end here! Can you relate to Yury’s creative journey or process? Did you learn something new? Chat with Yury in the comment section below. Products Seen in This Post: