Meet Polina Krasykova

We had the good fortune of connecting with Polina Krasykova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Polina, why did you pursue a creative career?
Life is too short not to create your own imagination. I chose a creative path because it allows me to explore the unknown and continuously question what’s possible. As an artist and designer, I’m driven by curiosity, purpose, and the desire to transform ideas into experiences that connect with people and add meaning to everyday life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Automotive design and visualization allow me to turn ideas into experiences that people can feel and connect with. The path was challenging from the very beginning, filled with long nights and constant pressure, but I kept moving forward by trusting the process and asking myself how. I’ve learned that patience, consistency, and having the right people around you make all the difference. My story is about persistence, belief, and creating work that serves people and leaves a lasting impact.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d plan a mix of culture, movement, food, and creativity. The days would start with coffee and neighborhood walks to explore architecture, art spaces, and local galleries. Afternoons would include time by the water or swimming — one of the best ways to experience the LA lifestyle. Evenings would be about great food, discovering different cuisines, and hunting for the best desserts in the city.

I’d also make time for movies, scenic drives, and sunsets, balancing the energy of the city with moments to slow down. What makes the area most exciting is the mix of creative people, cultures, and constant inspiration — there’s always something new to discover.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give my biggest thank you to God, who opened the doors that led me to this path and guided me through moments of uncertainty toward the right opportunities and people.

I’m deeply grateful to the mentors who shaped my growth as a designer. Max Shkinder, former designer at McLaren, inspired me to explore automotive design more deeply. Svyatoslav Konahovsky, designer at Bugatti, pushed me to think bigger and refine my standards, while Khaleel Abdul, currently at Honda, offered valuable insight and encouragement that helped me better understand the industry.

Gratitude also goes to ArtCenter College of Design for its rigorous creative environment, and to my family for believing in my decision and supporting me throughout this journey.

This path has never been a solo one, and I’m thankful for everyone who helped shape where I am today.

Website: https://pkwork.squarespace.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomato_archive_0/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/polina-krasykova-66902b24a/

Image Credits
Polina Krasykova