Agata Królak is a visual artist from Gdańsk, Poland, whose repertoire covers everything from poster illustration to children’s books. The talented graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts Gdańsk has a playful style, often using techniques such as collage and mixed media. I love her illustrations, which have graced the pages of many magazines and publications, and just adore her whimsical self-published books – especially the two-part cookbook!
It seems to me that many Polish visual artists and illustrators have something in common, the love for hand made natural designs, and Agata Królak has become a master of it. Her cute and colorful style has become a signature in her works, often showcasing the worlds of creatures like bears, marshmallows, and crocodiles. She has created some great educational books and posters for children who seem to love her designs just as much as I do. In the design world where minimalism and sleek styles are seen way too often, Królaks work feels like a breath of fresh air. Somehow they give that homely feel, reminding me of my favorite childhood books.
Among Królaks dozens of designs, two are above the rest: Her two cookbooks filled with recipes she collected from friends and family. Published 3 years apart, you can really see the artist’s development. The books are so pretty and unbelievably cute I wish I’d have both of them on my kitchen bookshelf. Ciasta I Takie Tam (Cakes, cookies and other treats in Eng.), which was originally her graduation project, consists of 72 mouthwatering recipes, with mixed media and collages illustrating them. The colorful piece of cake, shown in the main photo, is my ultimate favorite.
The second part Z działki, z lasu i takie tam (From the garden, forest and other stuff – loosely translated into English) came out last year and is a collection of recipes for preserves. Next to illustrations of jars, bottles, pots, and kettles you will find recipes for jams, preserves, pickles, juices, liqueurs and other delicacies. Both books are great collections of Polish family recipes mixed with an amazing range of Królaks personal works. If you read Polish, you can buy your own copy here and here.
The first Ciasta I Takie Tam cookbook
The second part Z działki, z lasu i takie tam
Photos © Agata Królak Behance