Zansky - Picture Books & Packaging Illustrator, Brazil

Zansky – AKA Zansky de Zaster – is a Brazilian illustrator creating warm, nostalgic artwork that catches the eye and stokes the imagination. Each element of a Zansky illustration brings hand-drawn charm, while the piece as a whole forms a rich tapestry of overlapping ideas, mood-setting colours and evocative textures. Brands around the world turn to Zansky for this unique visual language.

With a background in graphic design, for many years Zansky was part of the BASE-V collective in Sao Paulo, leading the way in collaborative creativity. Using his experience, he approaches subjects from a variety of angles, while always bringing his individual eye to the projects he works on. Clients love his unique ideas, his flexibility and respect for deadlines. Zansky’s journey into illustration began at age nine, copying schoolbook images with unbelievable accuracy. He focused on Communication Design in high school, before studying Visual Arts at São Paulo State University’s Institute of Arts. He loves listening to a wide range of contemporary music – from metal to jazz to afro beats – and some of his favourite artists include J Carlos, Harry Clarke, Aubrey Beardsley, Victo Ngai, Irene Rinaldi, Júlia Sardà, and Sophy Hollington.

Approach

Before he starts drawing, Zansky takes time to visualise everything in his head. Then, he folds a sheet of paper into eight panes and starts the thumbnails. The sketches are refined in Photoshop, presented for approval, after which he adds colours, textures and the final touches to complete the artwork.

Key software

Photoshop

Style

Inspired by vintage printing techniques and old pinball machine artwork, Zansky combines limited colour palettes with complex imagery to achieve a style that is warm, engaging and uniquely his own.