Elżbieta Wasiuczyńska

(b. 1966) – an illustrator, painter and designer.

She graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Kraków. She gained recognition in the children’s literature market thanks to Pan Kuleczka (Mr Globule), a character she created. She creates her illustrations using traditional, analogue techniques, and enjoys experimenting with forms. In later years, she became increasingly interested in cutouts and embroidery, both in paper and fabric. Wasiuczyńska’s first individual book – recognised by the Polish Section of IBBY – “Mój pierwszy alfabet” (My First Alphabet), and her next one (“Moja pierwsza księga pojazdów”, My First Book of Vehicles), contain illustrations made of fleece and felt scraps stitched together, combining simple motifs with interesting textures. Regardless of the materials used, the illustrator attaches greatest significance to the colour palette, which imbues her projects with a unique character.

The artist works with children’s magazines such as “Świerszczyk”, “Dziecko”, “Bęc” and “Pentliczek”. Her illustrations received numerous awards, for example in the Pro Bolonia 2001 and Pro Bolonia 2002 competition. Her design of “Kalendarz pod psem” (Dog Days Calendar) was awarded at the 2004 Biennale of Illustration (Aki, Japan); in 2006, she also received the bronze medal at the International Calendar Exhibition in Stuttgart for her illustrations for My first calendar (Heye).

Wasiuczyńska has also organised social campaigns. Her works were featured, for example, in brochures accompanying a campaign about conserving electricity directed at children. She created the poster about children’s rights for the Polish UNICEF Committee. She also works on commercial projects, such as Endo children’s clothing and bedding and children’s accessories for the brand Lela Blanc.