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THE PROOF - OLA VOLO

THE PROOF is a weekly roundup showcasing local creatives. A column for creatives to share their story and work, in a unique, concise format: each creative shows 8 pictures and answers 8 questions.

THE PROOF is a weekly roundup showcasing local creatives.  A column for creatives to share their story and work, in a unique, concise format: each creative shows 8 pictures and answers 8 questions. Past participants include Bob KronbauerOmer ArbelCarson TingLizzy KarpBranislav Henselmann, Hannah Georgas - all living in Vancouver.

“Challenge accepted!” Is the best way I can sum up Ola. I’ve known Ola since we were very young; we were the tallest girls in school so it didn’t take long for us to be inseparable. Her stunning beauty is nothing compared to her ambitious personality, generous presence, or her authentic nature, and this all runs parallel with the amazing work she produces.

You don’t need to be an artist to appreciate Ola’s work; her work is like a magnet that pulls everyone in. You immediately connect to it, and are left desiring to see more. What you see in her art is exactly what you see in Ola, her Russian background, the story, intricacy, beauty, empowerment, and design are always prevalent.

I’ve seen Ola take some big leaps into the art world. She works on multiple projects simultaneously, and is always committed to each project, values hard work and diligence, and has that desire to challenge herself and for others to challenge her. There are no limitations on the work she produces.

All you need is one minute with Ola, and you’ll completely understand how quickly she, and her work are able to captivate one. She is truly fascinating.

Roja Jahan

A friend and an aspiring lawyer

Ola_Volo_VIA_TheProof

THE PROOF

1. This is my workstation. I like to add the colors digitally to my work; it lets me play around with different pallets until I am happy with the turn out.

2. My latest hobby is mushroom picking!

3. This is the view from my studio in Gastown located on Cambie and Cordova.

4. This picture was taken on my morning run when Vancouver had clear blue skies in October, remember those days? I too need pictures to remind me.

5. This is me in my working gear painting a mural in Kits in October.

6. Apples are my favorite food.

7. These are the tools that get me by. Micron pens, pencils, tablet, sketchbook, sharpener, x-acto knife, double sided tape, eraser and a roller are all essentials.

8. Recently, I took part in painting a mural for the home of the founders of Lululemon in Point Grey. I had an amazing time and really enjoyed collaborating with 6 other graffiti artists to paint this 200-foot wall.

THE QUESTIONS

1. What neighborhood do you live in?

I just got back to Vancouver and I’m looking for a place in East Van.

2. What do you do and where?

I am a decorative illustrator and designer, and I work on freelance projects for local and international clients. I spent part of this year working in Brooklyn, but now I work from my studio in Gastown.

3. What are you working on?

As always I have many projects on the go. This week I am preparing for a solo art show, working on a mural in Kits, and creating a new public art piece for the City of Vancouver and the Graffiti Management Task Force.

4. Where can we find your work?

You can find my work in many places around Vancouver, and on my site: olavola.com; instagram: olavolo; twitter: @OlaVee; facebook: facebook.com/olavoloart.

5. Who are your role models?

I don’t have one particular role model. I find myself inspired by those who are dedicated and risk takers in life/ on projects. I think dedication takes courage and guts, especially in the creative field.

6. What keeps you going in this industry?

I’ve been fortunate to find great mentors and meet amazing people thru working on my art. Illustrating new stories, and challenging myself is great, that uncomfortable feeling of the unknown keeps me growing. But I think the most rewarding experience is when someone is able to build a connection to my work!

7. If you had a chance to start your career all over again, how would you do it differently?

I wish I had read Shaun Tan’s ‘Advice for illustrators’ earlier in my career; it’s a great read!

8. What advice do you wish someone would have given you when you were young?

The work you produce will outlive you.