Oct 4 – Nov 16
Gallery Reception: Friday, Oct 2, 6-9 p.m.
Artist Talk at 8 p.m.
Step behind the scenes to explore the creative journey and intricate process behind the original
illustrations of acclaimed children’s books by Dinara Mirtalipova. This solo exhibit features hand-crafted artwork from beloved titles such as Woven of the World, Leila in Saffron, The Princess and the Pea, The Ramadan Drummer, Merfolk Village, Russian Tale, and many more. Discover the enchanting worlds that bring these folktales and stories to life, highlighting the art and storytelling that captivate readers of all ages.
Dinara Mirtalipova:
“As a folk artist and illustrator, every book project I undertake begins with a deep sense of wonder and a passion for visual storytelling. I love immersing myself in the world of folktales, folklore, or modern children’s stories, and during the process of creating illustrations, I often find myself reconnecting with the curiosity and imagination I had as a child. Growing up, I was captivated by the dark and vivid tales of the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen, as well as the legends and myths of ancient Greece. Yet, what resonated most deeply were the folk stories passed down through generations, particularly the traditional Russian and Uzbek short tales. Now, as an illustrator, I remain inspired by the richness of cultural heritage and the timeless magic embedded in these narratives. Through my work, I aim to bring these stories to life with a sense of wonder, using the vibrant colors and bold floral patterns that define my artistic style. As a traditional artist, each project begins with ideation and pencil sketches, laying the foundation for what’s to come. From there, I move on to rendering the illustrations in gouache and watercolors, adding detail with careful precision. I find joy in the slow, meticulous process of painting by hand, where each brushstroke contributes to the final vision.”
Opening Reception Facebook Event Link
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Dinara Mirtalipova is an award-winning folk artist, illustrator, and surface designer with a profound passion for folklore storytelling and the enchanting world of classic fairytales. Her captivating artwork and unique style are inspired by the vibrant traditions and cultural heritage found in folkloric tales. Dinara’s mastery of traditional techniques shines through in her handcrafted illustrations, where she skillfully employs a bright primary color palette and incorporates bold folk floral patterns, resulting in visually compelling and whimsical visuals. Working primarily with gouache and pencils on paper, as well as exploring printmaking and block printing, Dinara brings to life narrative-driven art that tells captivating stories. In addition to her creative pursuits, Dinara serves as an Assistant Professor at the Cleveland Institute of Art, nurturing and guiding future illustrators. From her Northeast Ohio home studio, Dinara continues to immerse herself in book illustrations, collaborations, and commissions, illustrating the beauty of folklore and captivating audiences with her evocative artistic expressions.
Folktale: A Journey Through Illustrated Worlds will be open through November 16 during regular gallery hours on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 12 p.m.-4 p.m., and by appointment on weekdays. To request an appointment, email gallery@waterlooarts.org or call 216.692.9500.
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