Exploring the World of Children's Art: WFWPI Virtual Cafe with Ms. Olga Borodkina

Written by: Mion Tsuchiaka

On March 29, 2024, the Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI) brought a burst of creativity to screens around the globe with its lively Virtual Cafe on Zoom. The Virtual Cafe series, initiated in 2020, serves as a casual online gathering where WFWP leaders, members and friends explore meaningful issues, share perspectives and connect through shared interests and passions. 

This session featured Ms. Olga Borodkina, a talented children’s book illustrator based in Moscow. With a background in teaching English and a deep-seated love for art, Ms. Borodkina transitioned from education to pursue her passion for illustration. Her journey into the world of children's books began with self-taught techniques learned from watching artists on social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram.

During the Virtual Cafe, Ms. Borodkina captivated participants with insights into her artistic process and the joys of creating children’s books. She shared her creative inspirations, which often stem from childhood memories and observations of the world around her. Central to her artwork are vibrant watercolor paints that bring characters to life in enchanting, cozy environments. She generously shared her expertise on the intricacies of publishing children's books, offering practical tips and know-how garnered from her own experience. Having successfully published three children's books available on platforms like Amazon, she emphasized the importance of storytelling through illustrations and creating captivating characters that resonate with young readers.

Beyond her personal achievements, Ms. Borodkina highlighted the supportive community of children’s book illustrators and authors she has cultivated globally. This network serves as a source of encouragement, where creators exchange ideas, share resources and celebrate each other’s successes in the competitive world of publishing.

The Virtual Cafe participants actively engaged with Ms. Borodkina, asking questions about her artistic techniques, publishing process and advice for aspiring illustrators. The interactive nature of the session fostered a sense of community among attendees, united by their passion for children's literature and visual storytelling.

The WFWPI Virtual Cafe is a testament to the power of creativity and community-building across borders. Through platforms like these, WFWPI continues to foster dialogue, share knowledge and inspire individuals to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to society.

As WFWPI looks forward to future Virtual Cafe gatherings, it remains committed to providing spaces where diverse voices can converge, ideas can flourish and connections can thrive.