Tell us a little bit about yourself! When did you start creating?
I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember. As a child, I’d wake up and lose myself for hours in lines and colors. Later, I ventured into oil painting, drawn to a realistic style that challenged my technique. Still, something was missing—I couldn’t quite find my place professionally. It wasn’t until I began exploring the world of illustration that things started to click. At first, I wanted to try everything, every style and market. But over time, my focus narrowed, and I discovered where I truly belonged: in the magical world of children’s illustration.
How would you describe your artistic style in three words?
- Fun
- Colorful
- Expressive
Can you walk us through your typical creative process? Do you sketch first or dive straight in?
My process begins with the heart of the story: the main character or characters. I explore multiple design options, shaping their style to reflect the client’s vision. Once the characters begin to take life, I paint them to establish a guiding color palette. With that foundation, I move into sketching.
If I’m unsure about the composition, I’ll sometimes send one or two quick, expressive sketches to spark a dialogue and find the right direction. Once the sketches are complete, we review them together to make sure the visual flow works. Then comes my favorite part—bringing everything to life with color. I usually share three to four painted illustrations along the way, to ensure we’re aligned and the creative path feels just right.
What creative conundrum have you had in the past six months and how did you solve it?
One of the biggest creative challenges I’ve faced recently was illustrating a book centered around sensations, emotions, and intangible concepts. There were no clear actions or scenes to guide the visual narrative—only feelings floating between the lines.
I had to dive into the abstract, interpret the invisible, and translate emotions into images, without knowing for sure if that was what the client had in mind. It was an exercise in intuition, in imagining what wasn’t said and giving shape to what could only be felt. Luckily I was able to connect with what the client expected and it turned out very nice.
What can a client do to help you when briefing?
Ideally, the client shares anything that helps bring their vision into focus—images they love, whether mine or from other illustrators, photos, color palettes, styles, moods… anything that can guide me closer to what they’re imagining. Every detail, no matter how small, helps me tune into the world they want to see come to life.
Draw yourself as a character in your favourite book, tv show or film!
I’m passionate about historical novels, and a few years ago I came across one of my all-time favorites: The Memoirs of Cleopatra by Margaret George. Inspired by the story, I imagined myself as one of the queen’s advisors, whispering palace intrigues into her ear.
What is your drink of choice?
I love black coffee. While working, I enjoy taking little breaks to savor a cup. Whether it’s winter or summer, I always need it piping hot.
What is a song that makes you want to get up and dance?
I don’t usually dance, although one album that gets me moving is Beyoncé’s Renaissance. Instead, I usually listen to music by artists like Lana Del Rey, Taylor Swift, or Billie Eilish.
How would you describe your agent, Lucie Ludds, in three words?
- Optimistic
- Charming
- Diligent
And finally, what’s the best piece of advice you’d give to an illustrator just starting out?
My advice is to find a style that truly represents you—one that feels natural and brings you joy when you draw. It’s not just about how it looks, but how it makes you feel. Your style should be an extension of your voice, something that inspires you every time you pick up a pencil or brush.
