I was born in Chelyabinsk (where the meteorite fell), then often travelled around Russia with my parents. As I remember myself I always drew.

I graduated from architectural Institute, but not worked, then the 1990-2000 years thundered (restructuring, remaking, unemployment). I married, moved to Belarus, has given birth to three beautiful kids but my soul lacked creativity.

Little by little I tried different needlework and finally found myself in the painting of dolls. My children have grown up, the free time to draw dolls increased and I took this up professionally. I see my nesting dolls as a continuation of my children, as fairy dolls, as memories of my happy childhood, as an immersion in the history of my people. Another words, my creativity has many different sides.

I am unspeakably happy that my work finds response in the hearts of different people worldwide: from Norway to Hong Kong, from America to the Arab Emirates. I would really appreciate it if you like them in your country as well.

With respect, Irina Starkina.