A COZY SPOT TO UNWIND

Digital illustration and animation were the missing pieces for Aliina Kauranne’s expression. In her works, the acclaimed Finnish artist conjures up sequences and images which explore identity and nostalgia, be it through surreal visions or absolutely pampered boots. Read today’s feature to learn about Aliina’s changing relationship to art, global brands, and the Spice Girls.

Your work is often described as playful and fresh, with a distinctive style that combines 3D illustrations and motion graphics. What initially drew you to this medium, and how do you continue to find inspiration within the digital realm?

I turned to digital mediums as a means separating myself from my work a little. Doing everything by hand felt too personal and intimate. I needed a neutral tool to act as a buffer between me and the final product. I feel that using 3D software has helped me navigate sharing my work online and handling critique better. Having the software ‘generate’ the work rather than it feeling like it’s solely mine made the process easier mentally. I find that 3D illustration often looks a bit generic, so I strive to stand out from that. I feel inspired when I create something interesting by blending various techniques and mediums, rather than just relying on typical ‘3D art’.

Your portfolio includes collaborations with major brands like Apple, Gucci, and Nike. How do you approach these commercial projects while staying true to your artistic vision and aesthetic?

Working with bigger brands is pretty straightforward—they usually have a very clear idea of what they want and what I can deliver. So, sticking to my artistic vision and style isn’t a problem since it’s usually what they’re after. I also try to approach every project the same way, regardless of whether the client is a friend or an international company. I have noticed that the best outcome usually occurs when the client knows what they are asking for and I have creative freedom within certain guidelines.

Your love for platform boots, in particular, seems to stem from a desire to revisit childhood dreams. How do these personal experiences shape the themes and narratives within your art?

My fascination with platform boots originates from my childhood in the 90s, I was really influenced by the Spice Girls and their amazing footwear. I always wanted to have a pair of platform boots but I never got one. My ‘Pamper Boots’ project, where I illustrate these unreal platform boots, is kind of a tribute to these unfulfilled childhood dreams. For me, platform boots represent strength, endless creativity, and the joy of embracing fun.

Humour and playfulness are prevalent in your designs, with references ranging from lava lamps to Furbys. How do you balance this lighthearted approach with the deeper themes of nostalgia and identity exploration?
I find the mix of serious themes and playful styles really intriguing — the blend of cute and creepy. I think it also feels very relevant in today’s world of social media, where we often cover up harsh realities under some polished or glittery surfaces. I’m simply also just visually drawn to cute, fluffy, and sparkly things, and not a fan of dark or too gloomy visuals. Humour is also crucial for coping with tough situations or traumas—it helps to navigate life’s absurdities and chaos. So could say that balancing humour and deeper themes is about capturing that contrast and illustrating the complexity of life.

The VHS aesthetic is one of your sources of inspiration. What is it about this retro format that resonates with you, and how do you incorporate it into your digital artwork?

In a world full of chaos, nostalgia feels like a safe haven—a cozy spot to unwind. Growing up in the 90s, it’s had a big impact on my creativity. The VHS look, especially, brings a sense of comfort and ease, like being wrapped in a warm, familiar hug. Compared to today’s slick, almost real-looking digital art, I kind of prefer the softer, lo-fi vibe of VHS. I think it also adds a bit of warmth and authenticity to 3d work, gives a break from the sometimes cold and too polished feel of modern digital art.

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Bio

Aliina Kauranne is a Finnish digital artist and designer, represented by Veli Studio.

Aliina works mainly with 3D illustrations and motion graphics. Her playful and fresh style combined with her writing and vision has put her on top of the game in a few short years. The shiny modern-age digital world is her home and nostalgia and platform boots are her inspiration.

Her video art pieces have been screened all over the world from Helsinki to Mexico City and Los Angeles and her commercial work includespartners like Apple, Gucci, Samsung, Nike and Marimekko. Alina was awarded as the Finnish Illustrator of the Year 2020.

Credits

Artist / Aliina Kauranne

https://aliinakauranne.com/about

Interview / Markéta Kosinová

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