Behind the art
About the artist
Hey, I’m Zoryana! I’m a queer, non-binary, neurospicy Ukrainian-Canadian artist creating vibrant, heartfelt work on unceded Algonquin Anishinaabe territory (Ottawa).
Why I make art
Art is how I process big feelings, honour my roots, and bring all the colour and chaos in my head to life. My work is rooted in identity, heritage, and connection—infused with bold folk-inspired patterns, joyful resistance, and storytelling that celebrates the beautiful mess of being human. I explore queerness, neurodivergence, culture, and memory with a lens of play and purpose. Some pieces are silly, some are sacred, all are full of heart.
Jumping into art with both feet
This past June, I left the safety of my 9–5 to take a leap into full-time art—realizing that not trying felt scarier than the possibility of failing. It’s been a wild, meaningful ride ever since, as I’ve been focused on creating work that connects, uplifts, and tells honest stories. (P.S. I’m also chasing a tattoo apprenticeship because why dream small?)
Outside the studio
When I’m not making art, I’m probably on the roller derby track with my pals, getting tattooed, dreaming about getting tattooed, imagining tattooing others someday, snuggling my partner Jon (a literal giant) and our fur buddies Chuck and Duncan, tending to my aquariums, or sprinting after whatever hyperfixation or side quest has carpe diem’ed my ADHD.
Come for the mess, stay for the magic!
This little corner of the internet is my home for shop updates, commissions, messy musings, and bold, colourful creations. Thanks for stopping by, I’m so glad you’re here.
Mess, Magic, & Midnight Musings
Welcome to my not-so-private diary—a place where the late-night brain buzz meets the behind-the-scenes chaos of my art, queer identity, and all the colourful feelings that keep me up at 2 a.m.
This is where I’ll be documenting my next chapter as I step deeper into myself, my creativity, and this wild, messy leap into pursuing art. I hope you’ll come along for the ride—it means more than you know.
Values
Connection
Building bridges between cultures, communities, and hearts—because art helps us see, feel, and celebrate what makes us human.
Heritage
Rooted in my Ukrainian heritage and inspired by the land I’m honoured to call home, my art celebrates both culture and place.
Playfulness
Celebrating everyday magic and the beauty of being alive through vibrant, heartfelt art—because joy is not only a feeling, but a powerful act of love, play, and resistance.
Resistance & Sovereignty
Using art to reclaim power and assert the sovereignty of self and community—resisting erasure, celebrating queerness, and standing firm in identity, solidarity, and justice.
Here’s how we’ll work together:
1. Connect:
You reach out with your idea, vibe, or vision—we chat to see if we’re a good fit and what magic we can make together.
2. Collaborate
We brainstorm together! I’ll ask questions, pull references, and gather the inspiration needed to bring your concept to life with heart and style.
3. Create
I head into the studio (aka: controlled chaos zone) to sketch, design, and build your piece. I’ll keep you posted with key updates or previews.
4. Clean up
You’ll get a chance to review and request small edits if needed—this is where we fine-tune the details so it feels just right.
5. Complete
Once everything’s polished and approved, your final piece is on its way—whether it’s digital files, a print, or a hand-made original.
Timelines and collaboration:
Every project is different! Most commissions take 2–6 weeks depending on complexity and my current queue. Need it sooner? Rush orders are available for an extra fee. Clear communication is key, and I always aim to make the process easy, thoughtful, and fun.
Making Magic Together
What’s brewing at the Magic Shop
Shop top picks including apparel, prints, stickers, home goods, and more!
