Dinara Mirtalipova is an award-winning folk artist, illustrator, and surface designer with a profound passion for folklore storytelling and the enchanting world of classic fairytales. Her captivating artwork and unique style are inspired by the vibrant traditions and cultural heritage found in folkloric tales. Dinara’s mastery of traditional techniques shines through in her handcrafted illustrations, where she skillfully employs a bright primary color palette and incorporates bold folk floral patterns, resulting in visually compelling and whimsical visuals. Working primarily with gouache and pencils on paper, as well as exploring printmaking and block printing, Dinara brings to life narrative-driven art that tells captivating stories. In addition to her creative pursuits, Dinara serves as an Assistant Professor at the Cleveland Institute of Art, nurturing and guiding future illustrators. From her Northeast Ohio home studio, Dinara continues to immerse herself in book illustrations, collaborations, and commissions, illustrating the beauty of folklore and captivating audiences with her evocative artistic expressions.