We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Aliona Solomadina. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Aliona below.

Aliona, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

I consider graphic design not merely as a service but as a visual and artistic experiment within the modern social landscape. I need to approach graphic design as a creator who integrates fundamental methodological concepts of the discipline and applies them adeptly to present-day contexts. In doing so, I aim to construct a new, universal language—an alphabet rooted in interdisciplinary principles, reflecting the complexities of today’s realities.

Aliona, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As a graphic designer and researcher in the field, my journey began at the Kharkiv Academy of Design and Arts in Ukraine. Over the past decade, I’ve resided in Kyiv, dedicating my skills to crafting graphic designs across diverse realms such as culture, fashion, and education. My contributions have garnered significant recognition, particularly in esteemed Ukrainian book design competitions spanning from 2020 to 2022.

One notable milestone in my career was my involvement in a research project focused on Ukrainian trademarks from the 1960s to the 1980s. This collaborative effort, which received a grant from the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation in 2019, paved the way for the exploration and preservation of Ukraine’s rich graphic heritage. The project not only showcased historical significance but also aimed at the potential for establishing and delving into archives dedicated to Ukrainian trademark graphics.

Following the full-scale invasion of Russia into Ukraine in November 2022, my family and I fled to the United States, where we are now based in Chicago. Despite the upheaval, my commitment to my craft remains unwavering. I continue to specialize in book design and the development of visual identities for a spectrum of events, campaigns, and brands.

Central to my practice is the belief in defining graphic solutions as a form of language tailored to each unique commission. I find great fascination in exploring how such solutions evoke emotional responses and perceptions. To me, graphic design transcends mere aesthetics; it serves as a powerful medium for expressing and communicating feelings and emotions. Leveraging the nuances of typography and graphic shapes, I strive to unlock the full expressive potential of design in every project I undertake.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

During the creative process, one often finds themselves immersed in an alternative reality. This journey can be profoundly emotional and engrossing, to the point where the passage of time becomes inconsequential. In my practice, I focus on the creation of graphic forms that find application in logos, custom typefaces, abstract art, and more. This demands a special sensitivity to form and the ability to engage in a dialogue with it.

Engaging in dialogue with form entails more than just imposing a preconceived solution; it involves initiating it toward transformation. It’s akin to conversing with geometrical shapes within your working file, sometimes even engaging in spirited debates with them, until that moment of sheer relief when a solution emerges.

I dare to assert that true fulfillment in the creative process comes when one experiences absolute joy and pride in their creation. When presenting it to the client, there’s a sense of anticipation and satisfaction in knowing that they will not only accept but also admire your work.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

In the aftermath of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, resilience has become a central theme in my life. The devastating impact of this brutal war has disrupted various aspects of normalcy, leading me to prioritize safety for both my professional practice and personal well-being, prompting my departure from my homeland. Starting anew in a different country presents its own set of challenges, particularly when such a move wasn’t meticulously planned. Life’s unpredictability often throws unexpected hurdles our way, and in this case, my resilience is fueled by drawing upon my professional experience to forge ahead despite the persistent stress induced by the ongoing war.

Embracing this new chapter, I am eager to explore fresh opportunities in graphic design within the international community. It remains paramount for me to continue championing Ukraine, even from afar. In today’s landscape, my graphic design projects for Ukrainian institutions abroad serve not only as a showcase of my creative work but also as a form of diplomacy. Design has emerged as a powerful tool in shaping perceptions and fostering connections, and I am committed to leveraging it to promote the rich cultural heritage and resilience of Ukraine on the global stage.

Contact Info:

• Website: alionasolomadina.com
• Instagram: Aliona Solomadina

Image Credits
Personal photo by Iryna Staragina