My name is Tanya Bolharova, and I am the owner, designer, and maker behind NoBoringBagsArt, that wasn’t born from a business plan – it was born from a need to breathe again. From the tiredness of gray days and the silence that grows inside when life slips out of your hands. Color, boldness, and artistic freedom became my way back to myself.
My life changed dramatically in 2014 when russia occupied my native Crimea. I made the difficult decision to leave the occupied territory and move to a free part of Ukraine. It wasn’t an easy choice, but I knew my six-year-old son deserved to grow up in a free country.
From 2014 to 2016, we moved between several cities until, in 2016, I discovered pottery. Working with ceramics became my sanctuary during those challenging times. It helped me cope with the longing for home, my parents, and my past life. By 2018, I had opened my own ceramics studio in Kherson, where I held workshops and created unique ceramic pieces.
Tragically, in 2020, I lost both of my parents, who remained in occupied Crimea. I couldn’t visit them due to the ongoing occupation and legal restrictions. In 2022, when russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, I was forced to leave everything behind once again. In May 2022, my son, our cat, and I escaped from occupied Kherson to Bulgaria, embarking on a grueling week-long journey by buses and trains, carrying only two bags of essentials. I left not only my home but also my workshop, my dreams, and the stability I had worked so hard to build. In this unfamiliar country, I faced the heartbreaking reality that continuing my work with ceramics was impossible.
Yet, I knew that creativity would be the key to overcoming challenges and finding the strength to rebuild my life. Starting from scratch in Bulgaria wasn’t easy, but creativity became my salvation. That’s when I discovered punch needle embroidery. My first major project was “The stone embroideries of Nova Kakhovka in textiles”, dedicated to Ukrainian heritage. Inspired by the unique patterns adorning the architecture of Nova Kakhovka – created in the 1950s by Ukrainian artist Hryhoriy Dovzhenko and known as “stone embroideries” – I turned these motifs into textiles. This project was my way of expressing gratitude to the Kherson region, which became a second home for my son and me.
As part of the project, I hand-embroidered 12 panels with a combined area of over 12 square meters, which included:
- Two large pieces 50 x 200 cm
- Six panels 140 x 65 cm
- Two panels 100 x 80 cm
- Two square panels 100 x 100 cm
The project was first exhibited in Sofia, Bulgaria, in August 2023 and later traveled to exhibitions in the Czech Republic, France, and Belgium. These events allowed me to share the beauty of Ukrainian culture and its resilience with the world.
In 2024, I founded NoBoringBagsArt to unite art and functionality in every piece I create, because it’s not just an accessory – it’s an opportunity for self-expression. I’ve always believed that the things we wear should reflect our individuality while remaining functional. That’s why I design unique accessories that are bright, stylish, and extraordinary. Each item combines artistry, originality, and elegance, adding a unique touch to your style. My hand-embroidered bags symbolize inspiration, readiness for change, and a desire to bring something extraordinary into everyday life.
I believe that creativity can help overcome any challenge and inspire transformation. NoBoringBagsArt is more than just bags and accessories. It’s a fusion of creativity and practicality, designed for those who value uniqueness, boldness, and ingenuity in every detail. I would be delighted if my creations become a part of your life. Take a look at the collection – perhaps one of my bags is already waiting for you!
Ready to wear your unique story?
Explore the NoBoringBagsArt collection and find the bag that speaks for you.