Yulia Brodskaya shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Yulia, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I love dancing — the kind without predefined steps, where you simply let movement arise from listening to both the music and your body. The art form I work in doesn’t allow for immediate, spontaneous expression — there’s no splashing paint on a canvas — instead, it reveals itself slowly, one careful drop (or strip of paper) at a time. Dancing helps me balance that; it gives me an outlet for the high-intensity energy that needs to move in the moment. Yet, it’s the very same energy that fuels the creative flow in my paper artworks.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a paper artist known for my innovative approach to an ancient technique called paper quilling. I work with just two simple materials—paper and glue—and use a technique that involves carefully cutting, bending, and placing strips of heavy paper to create lush, vibrant, three-dimensional artworks. My career in paper art spans over 16 years, during which I’ve played a role in popularizing papercraft in general.
Before moving in a more fine art direction with my work, my modern take on papercraft helped me build an impressive roster of clients in just a few short years. I’ve completed over 200 projects and brand collaborations with clients ranging from Neiman Marcus to Hermès, Issey Miyake to Wimbledon, and Paramount Pictures to Balvenie, among many others. In 2016, I also created a Forever® stamp design for the United States Postal Service.
I continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with edge-glued strips of paper, exploring new ways to bring this humble material to life and convey emotions.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
The person who saw me clearly before I could see myself was my grandma. I had a very special relationship with her—we even shared a bedroom until I was six. She always believed in me, both as a person and as an artist, and that belief helped me begin to trust that perhaps I really did have a talent. It was a long journey before I truly started believing in myself, but she was the one who planted the seeds.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
When I was sad or scared as a child, journaling helped a lot. I also had a couple of imaginary friends whom I would call upon whenever I needed comfort and unconditional understanding. But in all seriousness, the thing that truly helped me navigate the world as a child—and still helps me as an adult—is my art practice. Having a creative outlet takes me out of my head and allows me to focus on creating beauty. That escape and expression have always been my way of finding calm and clarity.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Very much so. I’m simply not capable of creating an image of myself and maintaining a facade—not that I never tried. I did many times, trying to feel more “normal” or to fit in, but it never worked in my favor. In fact, it often created more problems, because I could only sustain it for a short time before running out of energy, which left people confused about who I truly am.
Over time, I’ve learned to lean more and more into being myself. If I don’t resonate with a person or situation, I’ll stay quiet and simply observe. But when I feel comfortable and sense an energetic match, I show up fully as my true self. This has been a lifelong transformation—one that continues to evolve today.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
Believe it or not, in all these years I’ve never had a solo exhibition—just showing individual artworks here and there. I’ve never felt quite enough impulse or outside support to channel my energy in that direction. But I feel that this is something I would regret if I didn’t find the right opportunity to share my work with more people in person.
I’ve even had a somewhat crazy idea of combining my art with my love of ecstatic/somatic dance and movement—perhaps hosting an opening night as a “Dance with the Artist” event or something along those lines. I’m just dreaming out loud here, putting it out into the universe—maybe the stars will align, and I’ll have my own special show someday.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artyulia.com
- Instagram: yulia_brodskaya_artyulia
- Facebook: paperdesignart
- Youtube: ArtYulia
- Other: Online course Painting with Paper: https://www.yuliacourses.com/course-sale-page
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
