Sandora Kya
Professional science illustrator
I'm a curious soul with a passion for art. I love to explore, discover and learn, and nature —with all its wonders — is the perfect infinite playground. When the time came for me to choose à career, I realized that I could combine my various passions into an actual job that would keep me busy, but never bored, for years to come : I became a naturalist painter.
I trained on my own with my thirst for discovery as my guide and thus built up an experience that I am now ready to bring to others. Over the years, I have been able to explore many artistic mediums : charcoal, wax-based colored pencil, oil pastel, acrylic, … each with its own interesting use and rendering. But to better meet my needs for realistic reproductions, I specialize in watercolor and inking.
First, watercolor, for the softness and finesse of colors and textures. I have never come across any shade in the great tree of life that I have not been able to reproduce with my paintings. It is a flexible and adaptable medium that has never let me down. Inking is the result of my study of the great scientific illustrations which have made the reputation of natural sciences. Even a few black lines on a white background can capture the volume and texture of the subjects depicted. It's a never-ending challenge to find the right stroke in the right place to bring a subject to life on paper.
As a side note, my fascination for the techniques and history of Arts has pushed me to create a palette of "old-fashioned" colors, entirely made of natural pigments. I use techniques and production tools as old as painting itself, such as gum arabic and glass wheels to grind my components which range from dusts to minerals from all over Europe. My illustrations entirely painted with this natural watercolor and the ones enhanced with India ink are never disappointing !
As for my favorite subjects : all living things obviously fascinate me and I can provide high- quality work for any animal, vegetable or even mushroom if needed. I do, however, have a strong affinity (we all have one, let's be honest !) with reptiles and amphibians as well as with arthropods and flowering plants. Still, any challenge or cherished project is welcome, so do come and contact me.
In my few years in this field of work, I have had the opportunity to work with big companies, doctoral students, individuals and regions on various projects such as posters, conferences, reports, flyers, books, … all displayed and/or presented in various places such as congresses, exhibitions, university halls, amphitheatres, …
I am open to all proposals, any project can be discussed and built together. My illustrations are used to visually highlight and support your research and scientific work. And thanks to my experience, as well as my paintings and advice, I can also help your entire communication project by laying it out, or creating a graphic charter that will guarantee a unique result, relevant and adapted to your vision.
If you want one of your project to pop with the perfect illustration or give it a neat layout, come and contact me. Submit your expectations and let's study its feasibility together.
But as for now, enjoy your visit here.
