Today’s Doodle, illustrated by Moscow-based guest artist Sveta Mullari, celebrates Russian director, screenwriter, and professor Tatyana Lioznova on her 96th Birthday. Lioznova was widely known for the beloved 1973 spy thriller television series “Seventeen Moments of Spring,” and through her work explored themes like alienation and perseverance, often inspired by her personal life.

Tatyana Lioznova was born in the Russian capital of Moscow on this day in 1924 and went on to graduate from the world’s oldest film school, the All-Union State University of Cinematography, or VGIK. 

Lioznova broke new ground as a female director, a rare profession for women in Russia at the time. She made her directorial debut in 1958 with “The Memory of the Heart” and saw nationwide success with the 1967 romance “Three Poplars at Plyushchikha.” Lioznova reached new heights of fame with her hugely popular 12-part series “Seventeen Moments of Spring.” The series—which inspired the Doodle artwork on Lioznova’s right side—takes place during World War II and follows protagonist Maxim Isayev, a fictional Soviet spy often compared to his British counterpart James Bond. Referenced on the left side of the artwork is Lioznova’s 1982 hit film “Carnival,” a musical comedy she both wrote and directed.

Lioznova also returned to her alma mater VGIK and taught workshops on acting and directing to a new generation of Russian filmmakers. In honor of her contributions to Russian cinema, Lioznova was named a People’s Artist of the USSR in 1984.

Thank you, Tatyana Lioznova, for entertaining the world through the unique lens of Russian culture.

 

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Guest Artist Q&A with Sveta Mullari

Today’s Doodle was illustrated by Moscow-based guest artist Sveta Mullari. Below, she shares her thoughts behind the making of this Doodle:

 

Q: Why was this topic meaningful to you personally?

A: Female directors are still rarely seen in our country and around the whole world, as well. Tatyana Lioznova managed to make her way through the cinema art field and become one of the most significant directors in the middle of 20th century. I think that she is a great role model for young girls who want to devote themselves to any form of art. 
 

Q: What were your first thoughts when you were approached about the project?

A: I thought it would be awesome to show Tatyana's occupation through the prism of a Soviet movie poster, especially since this aesthetic largely influenced me personally as an illustrator.
 

Q: Did you draw inspiration from anything in particular for this Doodle?

A: The main sources of inspiration were photos and videos from Tatyana Lioznova's time. I have watched a few documentaries about her and rewatched some of her feature films for more inspiration and knowledge. 
 

Q: What message do you hope people take away from your Doodle?

A: I hope this Doodle inspires people to learn more about this wonderful woman and watch more of her films. I also hope this experience helps encourage people to overcome life’s difficulties.

 

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Early concepts and sketches of the Doodle