Quirky, Exaggerated, Theatrical: The Human Form is a Playground for Illustrator Zosia Bońkowska

The human body is not just a physical vessel; it’s a canvas of expression, emotion, and personality. Zosia Bońkowska, also known as Zov__ska, takes this intricate theme and magnifies it.
Originally from Poznań in Poland, she brings her whimsical flair to life in her illustrations.

With an emphasis on quirky characters and exaggerated features, Zosia’s artwork resonates with humor, depth, and a touch of the grotesque. She believes there’s so much more to an individual than their exterior, and her illustrations reveal the character’s essence through playful exaggeration.

Since moving to London to pursue a master’s at the University of Hertfordshire, she’s cultivated an impressive portfolio that blends fearlessness with uniqueness. Her playful linework and expressive gestures are evident in every piece, making her style unmistakably hers.

• Born in Poznań, Poland
• Loves to explore the human body in her illustrations
• Graduated from the University of Hertfordshire in 2021
• A unique blend of humor and artistry

Constantly filled with ideas, Zosia fills her sketchbooks with outlandish characters. From stretching limbs to caricaturizing expressions, she bends and shapes anatomical norms to bring out drama and humor.

Reflecting on her journey, Zosia’s study of ballet for 14 years infuses a sense of movement in her art. Her work captures the dynamics of human expression, showcasing both simplicity and complexity, light and shadow, monochrome and vibrant colors.

Her fearless approach attracts a variety of clients, some even on the unusual side of the spectrum. One of her early commissions required crafting military-themed illustrations for a Polish company, Marco Pablo, creating a humorous twist on traditional military art.

Zosia loves her freedom to explore various subjects, as depicted in her recent work illustrating plant-based cooking for Rebel Roots magazine. She expressed her creativity across a range of mediums, pushing her distinctive style to new horizons.

When not working on briefs, she actively pursues personal projects aiming to fill gaps in her portfolio. Current explorations include nature-inspired themes and characters drawn from Greek mythology, particularly inspired by contemporary interpretations.

Zosia is excited about future projects that reflect her values, embracing collaboration and authentic connection as vital aspects of creative work. Her innovative vision aims toward branding projects that represent mental health and wellness.