Alexander Mikhaylov, the Senior Illustrator at Surfshark, has an inspiring journey that began with school sketches and led to a successful career in illustration. Based in Vilnius, Lithuania, Mikhaylov's extensive portfolio includes work in icons, logos, children's book illustrations, and game concept art.
Known for his adaptable style and continuous quest for inspiration, he embraces both traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. In this interview, Mikhaylov shares his insights on breaking into the industry, staying motivated, and the future of creativity, offering invaluable advice for aspiring and established professionals alike.
How did you first get into the industry?
I started drawing a lot while I was still in school, and it caught the attention of the local newspaper. By the time I was in 5th grade, I was already working as a freelance illustrator. By the time I graduated, I had built up quite a portfolio with various freelance illustration and design projects.
During my first year at the institute, I got an exciting project: a series of illustrations for video advertising. The clients loved my work, and I was offered a full-time position at the Maxim advertising agency.
Working at the agency turned out to be incredibly valuable. I got hands-on experience in so many areas of design, from print to web. This practical experience helped me grow into a professional commercial illustrator, even more than my formal studies did.
Where are you based now and who do you work for?
Vilnius, Lithuania. Surfshark .
What is your personal background and what role did it play in your career?
Over the years, I've been offered a wide variety of tasks, and I rarely said no. I was eager to try everything! I've created icons, logos, and fonts, illustrated children's books, and even dabbled in paint-making to understand the process better. I've also worked on game concept art and branding, done loads of corporate character and illustration work, and tackled wall painting and set design.
While I didn't become perfect at everything, this journey gave me a wealth of experience across different fields. I like to think it helps me a lot in my work, fuels my inspiration, and lets me better understand people from different professions. This understanding gives me an edge in communication and corporate work.
If you weren’t in your current industry, what would you be doing?
In my free time, I paint pictures. I think I could do this all the time, but I'm interested in too many things. I am also attracted to the work of sign painters and wood carvers.
Can you explain your creative process? What makes it unique?
I don't think I'm unique or much different from other illustrators and designers out there. Many of my colleagues work similarly. When I receive a task, the first thing I do after reading the brief and talking with the stakeholder is look for inspiration.
I explore the work of other artists and browse inspiring examples of illustrations, typography, design, and sometimes even architecture. It all depends on the task. Gradually, ideas start forming in my mind, and I make sketches and put together a mood board. We then discuss the results with the client, and from there, I work on finalizing the project.
How would you describe your style?
I have no style, haha! Some people say I do, but I feel that my interest in projects across different fields has taught me to adapt and come up with new approaches each time. I actually see this as one of my weaknesses.
Which individuals do you gain inspiration from? Do you have any heroes in the industry?
Oh, there are so many wonderful people around, and I find inspiration in someone new every time.
Ben Marriott https://www.benmarriott.com/
Toza https://www.tozersigns.com/
David Smith https://davidadriansmith.com/
Malika Favre https://www.malikafavre.com/
Karim Rashid https://www.karimrashid.com/
Noobovich https://www.artstation.com/noobovich
Florian Baudrexel https://florianbaudrexel.com/
What tips would you give to aspiring creatives looking for work?
Take on any job. Don't expect someone to offer you your dream project right away. All comes with experience. Patience, hard work, self-education. And also observation.
Constantly look for inspiring examples, learn from everyone, from professionals and beginners. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and don't be afraid to ask a colleague or even a child for advice.
What tips would you give to other professionals to get more clients?
Make friends, help people, and don’t be snobs.
What kind of tools/kit/software could you not do without?
Wacom (I still use Intuos 3 PTZ630 - one of the best, and the last Wacom Intuos 5 touch at the office), Figma, Illustrator, Photoshop, Paper, Pencil, Brushes, Brain and Hands
As someone with experience in the industry, what trends do you foresee shaping the future of creativity?
I believe that even with the incredible advancements in artificial intelligence (which we must admit is just another tool, like the Ford assembly line or drawing software), manual labor and the ability to create beauty with our hands are becoming more valuable.
It's worth growing and developing in this direction. In the next decade, professionals who can use both their minds and hands, communicate effectively, and have strong soft skills will be the most in demand.
What do you think sets apart truly exceptional creatives from the rest of the pack?
I think this is, first of all, the ability to critically evaluate your work, see mistakes, and try to prevent them in future projects. Ability to think broadly. Courage to learn from beginners.
How do you think technology has influenced the creative industries and how have you adapted to these changes?
As I mentioned earlier, there's a lot of criticism about the introduction of artificial intelligence. However, those who manage to adapt and see it as just another tool to help us perform routine tasks more efficiently will be the ones leading the market. They'll create even more daring projects, respond quickly to trends, and implement exciting ideas.
What is the one thing that you would change about the industry?
I believe that for someone ambitious and driven, there are no obstacles that cannot be overcome.
The journey may not always be smooth, but it will make you stronger. I began at a time when information was gathered slowly, yet that didn't hinder our happiness or curiosity
Any websites, books or resources you would recommend?
Read fiction. You don't need motivational books. Look around you, visit museums, and learn from your colleagues.
