APASH illustration and books
Welcome to My World of Animals!
My name is Anelia Pashova, but I’m better known as APASH. The name is a play on the first letters of my name, while also evoking the free spirit of the apashi — outlaws who live beyond the system and dare to be different.
APASH Illustration and books was founded in 2010, bringing together my passion for art, nature, and animals. Today, the brand has over 6,800 followers and features a growing collection of original books, playing cards, art prints, greeting cards, and more.
Some of my most notable projects include “A Dog’s Job” , the DOG KINGDOM card deck (2021), the books “Do I Want a Dog?” (2024) and “Do I Want a Cat?” (2025), written by Vesela Genova, and BIRDS memo GAME (2025), a memory game created in collaboration with the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB) and supported by the National Culture Fund.
My boundless curiosity and love of the natural world are at the heart of my artistic practice. Dogs, in particular, hold a special place in my work. They have become my personal symbol, an enduring fascination, and a constant source of inspiration. Through my portraits, I strive to capture more than physical appearance, revealing the unique character and spirit of each individual dog.
Rooted in a love of classical art and the expressive beauty of a living line, my work is firmly grounded in traditional techniques. Digital illustration has never felt like my path. Instead, I choose to work with pencil, brush, and aquarelle, embracing the tactile quality, subtle imperfections, and distinctive character of these timeless mediums — qualities that no tablet or software can truly replicate.
I hold a Master’s degree in Illustration from the National Academy of Art in Sofia, Bulgaria. I am a member of DAFNI (Association of Animal, Botanical and Scientific Illustrators) and Sazvezdie (Constellation ), an Association of Children’s Book Publishers (sazvezdie.com).
I work as a freelance illustrator, rarely without my black dog by my side. More than a companion, my dog is my shadow, my muse, and my faithful friend — an inseparable part of my everyday life, creative journey, and heart.
I believe in giving back to the natural world that inspires me. Whenever possible, I support animal welfare organisations, shelters, and rescue initiatives through donations and volunteer work. A portion of the proceeds from my products goes to Aurora Pet Rescue and the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB), contributing to the protection and conservation of wildlife.
