Art The Interview

Sainte Maria – The Interview #02

19. October 2015
The Interview with Illustrator Sainte Maria | Sarah Le Donne Blog


The second interview is here! This time one of my current favorite illustrators was so kind to answer some questions: Sainte Maria. Maria is from Russia and she is working as an illustrator and graphic designer as well. She says that art, fashion, garments and design are her passion and you can really see this when looking at her images! Maria captures objects and sceneries in a sophisticated way but always with a dash of humor. You kind of want to live in this beautiful world that she is creating.

The Interview

1. What has motivated you to start your own business?
I don’t think of it as business! For me it’s just a way of life. I feel the everyday need to draw and create something new.

2. What does a typical day look like for you? Do you have a specific routine or process?
My day starts as the saying “Eat cake for breakfast”. I don’t have a particular schedule for work and it’s an ongoing process.

3. What has been the greatest challenge in your career and how did you overcome it?
I think my greatest challenge was to start a career as an illustrator. After my studies at university I tried to work as a graphic designer. After two months I realized that it is not the best fit for me, because I couldn’t fully express myself. I felt the lack of ‘art’ in design and so I devoted myself to illustration. I had the feeling that it was the perfect choice for me, because it allowed me to combine art and design.


Sainte Maria | fashion illustration

Sainte Maria | illustration | Céline Store

Sainte Maria | illustration | Citroen Car

Sainte Maria | fashion illustration
Sainte Maria | fashion illustration
Sainte Maria | illustration
Sainte Maria | fashion illustration

Sainte Maria | illustration

4. What would be a dream project or collaboration?
Oh, that’s a great question! I dream to be a big artist, but I don’t know where to start, ha-ha 🙂 I would like to illustrate a book or to create my own book for children. Since I’m a big fan of fashion I would love to draw for Céline or Marni or Comme Des Garçon or Acne. I really love the classic fashion covers in the beginning of the 20th century so it would be nice to see my work on today’s fashion magazine covers instead of retouched photos.

5. Who or what inspires your work the most?
Items! I love objects and to distort them. The culture of Japan has been inspiring me lately. ART! Art is a great part of my life. I love abstract and primitive art, Russian art of the early 20th century, Bauhaus, old Japanese woodblock prints, Korean folk painting, traditional Chinese watercolor. Every day I find new inspiration for my work.

6. What would you really like to learn someday?
Finally to speak English good and not to stress about everything.

7. What piece of clothing or accessory are you attached to the most and why?
It’s my eye-glasses because without them I can’t see a thing.


Sainte Maria | fashion illustration
Sainte Maria | chanel shoes illustration

Sainte Maria | animated food illustration

Sainte Maria | food illustration
Sainte Maria | food illustration

Sainte Maria | food illustration

Sainte Maria | animated food illustration

Sainte Maria | fashion illustration
Sainte Maria | fashion illustration

Sainte Maria | illustration

Sainte Maria | illustration | Chloé Store

And because Christmas isn’t that far away anymore I needed to show you Maria’s illustration of a Christmas tree. (It’s animated…)

Sainte Maria | animated Christmas tree illustration

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6 Comments

  • Avatar
    Reply monsterscircus 21. October 2015 at 0:03

    What a nice interview and such a talented artist! Great to be introduced to Sainte Maria, amazing illustrations. I’m also always so eager to hear about the processes behind the work of an artist. Maria combines her love for design and art in such a delightful way! Thank you Ladies for the inspiration:-)

    • Sarah Le Donne
      Reply Sarah Le Donne 22. October 2015 at 18:21

      Hey Mette, I’m really happy that you’ve enjoyed reading the interview. Maria’s work is truly special, I hope one of her illustrations will make it on the cover of a fashion magazine very soon, like she wishes! Thank you for stopping by! 🙂

  • Avatar
    Reply Martine M. 21. October 2015 at 20:06

    The pink Citroën is terrific!!

    • Sarah Le Donne
      Reply Sarah Le Donne 22. October 2015 at 18:22

      Oh yes! I’m not a fan of cars, but I’m SO in love with this Citroën! 😀

  • Avatar
    Reply Echi 18. October 2016 at 15:25

    It.s amazing! Such an talent artist.

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