Mateya Arkova - book illustrator

Hello! I’m Mateya Arkova, a children's book illustrator based in Sofia, Bulgaria, illustrating my stories in a small and cozy rooftop atelier in the heart of the city.

I have been working as a freelance illustrator of children's books for almost 13 years now. I adore my job as it is as close to wizard's work as it gets. And I've had the chance to learn from and be inspired by each book that I have illustrated.

I’ve illustrated books for publishers and authors from all round the world. In 2020 the book I illustrated for the author Slavi Stoev: 'The Hatred Seller' was nominated for 'Best Children's Book' in the prestigous White Ravens catalogue. In 2024 the nursery rhyme book 'Green Froggies' was awarded the 'Best Literature for Kids' award from the Bulgarian publishing society. Together with 'Five Fairytales' by Valeri Petrov, these books were shown in the Bologna Children's Book Fair.

My work makes use of both traditional and digital techniques, depending on the needs of the particular book project. Over the years I have loved the mysterious feel of watercolours. I like to use dynamic, lively lines, drawing visuals resembling a dreamy state of mind. Working with watercolours gives a unique touch to the story and it's own spirit.

My work process starts with character design sketches, continues to storyboard and finishes with the final coloured illustrations.