After reading numerous articles of mine highlighting illustrators exclusively represented by the Art Lab Agency, you're likely eager to learn more about the visionary behind it all. Meet Anya, the founder of Art Lab Agency, who built this powerhouse from the ground up and has played a pivotal role in advancing these artists' careers.

Anya moved on her own to England at sixteen and studied in London, she recalls it being a very lonely time in her life. She later became an educator working with Cambridge degrees for over ten years in art and design. She enjoyed helping students but didn’t enjoy working nine to five, especially after having her child.

She didn’t envision herself owning an agency promoting other artists, at the time, her biggest ambition was to work her way up the ladder to becoming a leader in her field. Quickly, however, she found herself frustrated with University courses.

‘I find that with university art courses, there is little lead for students to get into the industry. There is no emphasis on how to get a job after graduating.’

Anya decided to start her course on Instagram - it’s a course that prioritises the importance of self-promotion, building portfolios, and networking.

‘Of course, Art should be without money. But if you wish to do it for a living, you need to promote yourself to break into the industry.’ Anya adds.

One of these examples is Ekaterina, who was featured in a previous article.

‘I am very hands-on when working with other people. I get very involved with the editing.’

Anya helped her pitch Ekaterina’s book idea. Originally the book was to feature illustrations of animals in different weather conditions, but Anya encouraged Ekaterina to also add cities to the story.

When asked if she has any time to work on and promote her own art, she admits that she finds it far more vulnerable promoting her own work. When it comes to promoting others, she feels a lot more comfortable.

‘It’s a journey. I am a bit of a perfectionist. I can get very obsessive with a project. I pour all myself into my agency, working day and night. I feel responsible for everything.’

When it comes to finding and discovering artists, Anya observes a key trait that all successful artists under her guidance share: the resilience to keep going and start anew. She notes that those who take rejection and setbacks too personally will struggle in this industry. Therefore, it is crucial for artists to master the ability to continue creating and trying, regardless of how many times they face failure.

Another thing that Anya stresses is the importance of maintaining a professional, reliable and consistent reputation.

‘You can always learn the skills, but these qualities are priceless.’

To any readers who are interested in becoming a full-time artist, Anya shares this piece of advice:

It is crucial to investigate the industry you wish to break into.

‘If you want to work with children’s books, look at what sort of illustrations are selling children’s books and incorporate that art style into your own. The same goes for wanting to illustrate for magazines, newspapers, products, brands, etc.’

Anya talked about her recent success online after a viral video on TikTok telling the story of her childhood. She was born with a large brown mark on her cheek. Her parents made her cover it up when she was young and pushed her to do the surgery when she was old enough, which left her with a large scar instead. Whilst she was convinced it was the right thing to do, she has come to regret that decision.

‘My uniqueness was taken away from me. They changed me, it felt like I was not good enough as I was.’

Many people online have criticised Anya for expressing her regrets. She had been called ‘ungrateful’ and that her parents did the right thing. Yet Anya continues to talk about it and explores it in her art.

‘I use art to accept the way I am, how I draw and how I present myself. I believe that is what art is about.’

You can find Anya on her Instagram @anya_kuvarzina as well as on her website.

If you are interested in seeing Anya and her artists’ work in person, Art Lab Agency is hosting their first illustration exhibition and print shop at the Brick Lane Gallery in London. The exhibition runs from the 19th until the 30th of June. Be sure to stop by!

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Maria Schmidt is a writer and painter based in Chester. Invited back by the University as a Learning Facilitator immediately after completing her degrees in Literature, Creative Writing, and Fine Art, Maria Schmidt dedicates her time in helping others, improving her own craft and developing creative projects. Fluent in four languages, has a background in dance and theatre, Maria is incredibly fascinated by the arts and determined to promote others and their own work. She has high ambition in paving a way for herself in both the world of Traditional Painting and Publishing.

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