Danielle Kroll’s illustrations are delightful in their naivety. Working in various mediums that include illustrations for publishing projects, stationery, textile designs, ceramics, product development, and personal paintings, her playful style aims to make your everyday life a bit brighter. And judging by the number of followers she has on Instagram, people seem to get it.
Amongst her many inspirations, she mentions childhood memories, past decades (especially mid-century art and design), flowers, the outdoors, road trips, and thrift shops. “I’ve always been inspired by vintage children’s books, and mid-century illustrators like Saul Steinberg and Mary Blair,” she shared with Lonny Magazine. “I also get inspired by ornamental architecture, and luckily there’s plenty of that to find in New York.”
Having studied in Italy, she believes that’s where her obsession for ornate architecture stems from. “I’ve always loved the past in a despondent sort of way,” she admitted. “It’s hard to pinpoint a favorite decade because I love them all.”
And talking about the daily grind, she adds: “When I’m feeling lost I look at my past sketchbooks for reassurance. Sometimes I’ll find a little doodle that’ll spark something bigger. I think my best ideas come when I’m not expecting them, so it can be frustrating when nothing comes. It’s not something I feel like I can’t force, but I can encourage it by taking a walk, going to museums, or getting out of the city.”
Check out some of our favorite illustrations by her in the gallery below.
