IllustrationX - Misha Chernov portfolio

Misha Chernov is a Ukrainian illustrator whose images are clever and eclectic, full of ideas and storytelling, and whose innovative use of grainy textures to produce shading effects gives his work a totally unique aesthetic. In one moment, his illustrations are fantastical, in the next Kafkaesque but turn the page again and you’ll find something full of mystical symbolism. With such flexibility across so many unusual landscapes and a passion for visual storytelling, Misha is a fascinating rising star in the world of illustration.

Currently based in Lviv, Misha spent several years in the UK and studied at De Montfort University for Foundation, later receiving degree in Illustration from Falmouth with first class honours. As someone with dyslexia and ASD, he hated reading as a child, but this has become his superpower as an illustrator – he feels a strong connection to every image he works on because for him it replaces the words, thoughts and feelings in an article or story. Themes around history, classicism, mythology, mysticism, gothic horror and dark academia are where Misha’s style comes to the fore. Clients appreciate his talent for conveying narratives in unique ways, attention to detail and the timeliness of his delivery. Misha’s influences include philosophical studies such as hermeneutics and phenomenology, the art of Tove Jansson and novels by Donna Tartt.

Approach

Despite his dyslexia, each project begins with an in-depth examination of the brief and the text he’s to illustrate. His notes quickly become spider-web-like thought maps full of ideas and connections, drifting from themes to visuals, colours, compositions and the kind of typography to include. Then the sketching begins, first on paper and then in Procreate where the palette, textures and final details are completed.

Key software

Procreate and Affinity Suite.

Style

Mystical, gothic, nostalgic – Misha’s unique style feels tangible thanks to his unusual application textures, and yet hauntingly intangible through how the lighting is rendered. Wonderfully imaginative, his imagery is a touch dark while also full of surprising little details for the viewer to discover.

Languages

English and Ukrainian

Awards

2023 – D&AD New Blood – Portfolio – Winner

Client list

Misha’s clients include Wordsworth Editions, Mnemos Editions, Lobster Publishing, Badger Learning Publishing, Arcane Society, Little White Lies, Readsberry, Unplugged Book Box, ARTBOOKS Publishing, Seren Books, Apex Book Company and more.