Agata Stadnik, BFA’ 04, MFA ’09, recently wrote and illustrated her first children’s book, Walking to School Adventure.
MassArt Alumna and children's book author, Agata Stadnik.
Written by Rachael Dubinsky
From designing for international brands to illustrating her own children’s book by hand, Walking to School Adventure, Agata Stadnik’s creative journey has been one of curiosity, courage, and reinvention. A dual-degree graduate of MassArt’s Graphic Design and MFA programs, Agata has built a global career spanning the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East—balancing her professional design practice with teaching in higher education.
We caught up with Agata and she shared how MassArt’s fearless philosophy continues to shape her creative path, what inspired her return to traditional media, and the lessons she hopes to share with the next generation of artists and designers.
Tell us a bit about your background and artistic practice.
I hold a BFA in Graphic Design (2004) and an MFA (2009), both from MassArt. Over the years, I’ve built a diverse professional career as a commercial designer, working with a wide range of companies across the United States, Poland, and the UK.
Alongside my design practice, I’ve always been passionate about education. I’ve balanced freelance work with teaching roles in higher education, including positions as a Lecturer in Media in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and more recently as a Lecturer in Art and Design in the UK.
While most of my work has been digital and computer-based, I’ve recently returned to traditional media. I wrote and illustrated a children’s book by hand using watercolor—an experience that reconnected me with the tactile, personal side of image-making.
How has your MassArt experience helped shape your career path?
My experience at MassArt had a profound influence on my career path. The school’s philosophy and hands-on approach gave me the technical skills—and just as importantly, the confidence—to thrive in a highly competitive field. I still remember the graduation t-shirts that read: “MassArt made me fearless.” That sentiment really stayed with me. It captured the mindset I left with: unafraid to take on creative challenges, no matter how complex or unfamiliar they might be.
Looking back now, especially from the perspective of an international student, I realize how fortunate I was to study at MassArt and be immersed in the rich creative culture of the Boston area. I had the opportunity to learn alongside a diverse group of students and even cross-register at institutions like the MIT Media Lab. These experiences broadened my perspective and deeply shaped both my design practice and professional trajectory.
What inspired you to write and illustrate Walking to School Adventure?
I’m a mum of two, living in a small UK town within walking distance of my children’s school. Walking to School Adventure was inspired by the joy and curiosity my kids show on our daily walks—spotting animals and turning a simple routine into something magical.
As parents, we often rush and miss those little moments. This book is a gentle reminder to slow down and enjoy everyday adventures together.
Though I’m a designer—not a professional illustrator—I took a leap and illustrated the book myself using watercolors. I had doubts about my drawing skills, especially with so many talented artists out there, but it felt important to keep the project personal and authentic. After years of working digitally, returning to traditional media was intimidating, but teaching helped me embrace imperfection and trust the process.
I created all 24 illustrations myself—mostly on the first try—and embraced wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection.
The response from children, parents, and even local politicians has been incredibly rewarding. What began as a personal project became a journey of letting go, reconnecting with traditional media, and sharing the joy of noticing the world around us.
Watercolor illustration by Agata Stadnik.
Walking to School Adventure illustration courtesy of Agata Stadnik
Who were some of your mentors at MassArt?
All of the professors and staff at MassArt were incredibly supportive and dedicated, creating a learning environment that truly empowered students. Looking back, I only wish I had been able to take classes with even more of the faculty.
It’s difficult to name just a few, as so many had a lasting impact on me. During my undergraduate studies, I found Chaz Maviyane-Davies and Brian Lucid particularly inspiring—their passion and perspectives helped shape the way I approach design.
In graduate school, I was fortunate to be mentored by Jan Kubasiewicz and Gunta Kaza, both of whom played a key role in challenging my thinking and refining my creative voice. I was also deeply inspired by my fellow classmates. We came from diverse backgrounds, with a wide range of interests and skills, and formed a wonderfully collaborative group. The friendships and creative exchanges we shared were incredibly influential and remain meaningful to me today.
I’d also like to acknowledge Nadia Davage from the Graduate Office, whose support and kindness helped me many times throughout the program—and even beyond.
What advice would you give to students today who are hoping to carve out their own space in a creative career?
The creative field can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also challenging and highly competitive. My advice is to stay curious, keep learning, and remain open to new ideas, tools, and perspectives. Most importantly, follow your passion—doing work that truly makes you happy is what will sustain you in the long run.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of community. Stay connected with your classmates, professors, and the broader creative network. Relationships built early on can lead to unexpected opportunities, collaborations, and lifelong support.
I still have one t-shirt with the MassArt logo, and after all these years, it’s more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a quiet source of comfort. I’ve moved between countries and jobs many times, and whenever I feel a bit unmoored or lonely, I put it on. It reminds me of where I come from, the community that shaped me, and the values I carry with me. Most of all, it reminds me that I can do it—whatever “it” is next.
My advice is to stay curious, keep learning, and remain open to new ideas, tools, and perspectives. Most importantly, follow your passion—doing work that truly makes you happy is what will sustain you in the long run.Agata Stadnik, BFA ’04, MFA ’09
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