My story lives at the intersection of tradition and modernity, heritage and playfulness, healing and beauty.
My name is Kuralay Shadenova, and I am an artist, surface pattern designer, and embroiderer based in San Antonio, Texas. I specialize in original hand-drawn surface print design, creating joyful, expressive patterns inspired by ethnic motifs reimagined through a contemporary handwriting and color palette.
I grew up surrounded by layers of culture. Born in Kazakhstan, I was raised at the crossroads of European, Russian, and Central Asian traditions—listening to European and Russian fairy tales while being visually immersed in the rich ornamentation, symbolism, and rhythms of Central Asian ethnic design. That blend shaped the way I see the world and, ultimately, the way I create.
My work has a modern yet traditional character, with its own distinctive voice. Every design begins by hand—drawn, painted, and often hand-embroidered—using joyful, intentional color. These tactile elements are then transformed into cheerful, story-rich prints, suitable for textiles, stationery, home goods, children’s products, and more. My portfolio is designed to be flexible, allowing clients to customize colorways while preserving the integrity and soul of each pattern.
I love mixing media and techniques, weaving together painted forms, embroidered motifs, and hand-drawn details into designs that feel alive. Each collection tells a quiet story—shaped by the books I read, the relationships I cherish, the landscapes I walk through, and the way nature shifts color with every season.
Beyond aesthetics, my work is rooted in meaning and intention. Art has been a powerful, healing force in my life, especially as a mother raising a child with autism. Creating has taught me patience, presence, and joy in small moments—values that flow naturally into my designs. This lived experience fuels my mission:
to create art that uplifts, connects, and brings warmth and optimism into everyday life.
to create art that uplifts, connects, and brings warmth and optimism into everyday life.
I collaborate with brands, creatives, and businesses through art licensing, custom design, and bespoke artwork, helping products stand out in a competitive market while staying emotionally resonant and authentic. There is nothing more inspiring to me than seeing my art take on a new life in the hands of others—supporting their vision and becoming part of someone’s daily world.
When I’m not creating, you’ll often find me spending time with my favorite people, walking in nature, observing light and color, or quietly collecting inspiration for the next story waiting to be told through pattern.
Thank you for being here and for taking the time to step into my world.
