Arctic Field Notes | Lena Novikaya
Arctic Field Notes β€” Book Cover

Observation notes

⭐ Featured Project

ARCTIC STORIES

A narrative illustration project

Personal Illustration Series
Narrative Non-fiction
4–8 years
Nature Β· Wildlife Β· Environmental Storytelling
Arctic
Author & Illustrator

Overview

Arctic illustration character

Arctic Stories is an ongoing illustration project exploring the landscapes, wildlife, and quiet rhythms of the Arctic. Through narrative scenes, the project captures moments of curiosity, discovery, and connection between children and the natural world. Rather than documenting the Arctic scientifically, the illustrations invite young readers to slow down, observe, and experience one of Earth's most fragile environments through visual storytelling.

The Story Behind It

Arctic story illustration

The Arctic has long fascinated me as a place of extraordinary beauty and quiet resilience. This project began as an exploration of how illustration alone can communicate wonder, atmosphere, and emotional connection. Instead of focusing on dramatic events, I wanted to tell small visual stories β€” moments of observation that encourage children to notice details, ask questions, and imagine the lives of the animals that inhabit these remote landscapes. As I researched Arctic ecosystems and wildlife, the project gradually evolved beyond a collection of illustrations. It became an opportunity to explore narrative composition, environmental storytelling, and a slower, more observational way of inviting children into the natural world.

What I Explored

  • Narrative illustration without text
  • Arctic wildlife and ecosystems
  • Observation as a storytelling tool
  • Light, atmosphere, and seasonal colour
  • Emotional connection through landscape

Selected Artwork

Selected illustrations from the ongoing series

Status:

Ongoing personal illustration project, continuously expanding through research and new narrative illustrations.

Get In Touch View All Projects

Explore More

Other Projects

Mexico: Save the Axolotl

Mexico: Save the Axolotl

A narrative nonfiction picture book set in the canals of Xochimilco

View project β†’
World Map

World Map

An illustrated map of the world for children

View project β†’
International Children's Day

International Children's Day Campaign

Illustrated campaign for UNICEF

View project β†’