When you do something for the love of it, the work itself is the reward. But when the person who inspired you recognizes it, you get even greater confirmation that you're on the right path.
Igor Jurilj, known on our platform as Yellow Yuri—a Karlovac native famous for successfully translating pop culture references into imaginative visuals—experienced this firsthand. Elton himself shared Igor's latest visual, created after Britney Spears' collaboration with him on his famous song "Tiny Dancer," on his Twitter!
The versatile Igor is an editor, professor, journalist, and illustrator, and he gained particular prominence in the public eye for his activism in the "Free Britney" movement, when her fans carried his very illustration to a protest outside the courthouse, and his visuals were even liked by Britney Spears's sons.
You can find Igor's visuals as hoodies, t-shirts, and posters on Blue Frame, where, in addition to visuals of favorite stars, there are many works inspired by Croatian cities, famous people, and witty slogans and illustrations. We were curious about how he finds inspiration, what his process is like after an idea, and what kind of content he looks for in the work of other authors, and you can find the answers below.
You've released a new collection of illustrations. What is it?
The new collection features a series of cute, acrylic miniatures of Croatian city panoramas in bright, pastel, and somewhat childlike colors, which many have been asking for beyond the webshop's current offerings.
Where does the inspiration for the new works come from?
I don't need to explain the beauty of our country, culture, traditions, and architecture too much. When traveling around Croatia, I'm always a tourist all over again when it comes to admiring what we have.
And what is your favorite Elton John song?
Of course, "Tiny Dancer." That's why I was inspired to draw this picture!
How did the illustration come about?
A few days before the official release of the song, Elton shared the duet's cover art featuring photos of himself and Britney as children. She as a little ballerina (which she danced as a kid); and he as an old-school elementary schooler at the piano. My drawing is a Disney-style reinterpretation, and they are placed among the landscapes of stars on the rocket of their fame.
What does it feel like to be shared by such a big star on their social media?
Incredible and encouraging. As someone who is always skeptical and self-critical of my work, this was a small affirmation that sometimes a piece of work is good and imperfect.
Tell us, who are your top 3 creators on Blue Frame?
I'm writing on your wall – I have a soft spot for collages, and here, along with the tasteful minimalism and cleanliness, there's also a dose of clear humor. They're great!
Art for the home – a reinterpretation of cultural icons
Mayara – also remixes pop and art with collage
Top 3 illustrators you follow?
I love the work of young illustrator Domagoj Šokčević with his noir and retro approach to illustration.
Lokalni Luzer (Angela Žapčić) combines pop art and punk in her signature style.
Sara Gortan Spacenest – childlike fairy-tale quality with a twisted subtlety. Yum!
Hurry over to our website – Yellow Yuri has secured a 20% discount on the Elton and Britney visual, as well as on the Karlovac illustration!
