About me 🎨 Manuela Estevan
Hello! My name is Manuela Estevan.
I’m a Spanish illustrator from the Canary Islands, now based in Asturias, where I have lived for many years.
I love creating detailed illustrations with thoughtful compositions and rich color palettes. I enjoy every part of the illustration process, from developing a concept to the challenge of bringing it to life in a compelling image. But if I had to choose a favorite part, it would definitely be adding those final highlights once the render is done!
Proudly represented by the agency Advocate-Art →
—Experience
I’ve worked on a variety of editorial projects, including picture books, coloring books, book covers, and educational illustrations.
Some of the clients I have worked with include Penguin, Oxford University Press, and McGraw Hill, creating illustrations for books, textbooks, and other educational materials.
—Inspiration
My artistic influences come largely from animation. Growing up, I watched the films of Don Bluth, classic Disney, and Studio Ghibli, and I was always trying to draw their characters. Mary Blair’s work remains one of my biggest artistic influences. Reading is another constant source of inspiration, and I often find ideas in the worlds I discover through books. I think my love of animation has shaped the way I approach illustration, encouraging me to create images that feel alive with movement and expression.
One of my favorite parts of being an illustrator is connecting with other artists. I love meeting fellow illustrators, taking part in local art events, and being part of a creative community.
When I’m not working, I’m usually developing my own stories and characters, spending time with friends, or reading something,most likely Discworld by Terry Pratchett.
My perfect afternoon is spent curled up with my cats, watching a campy movie and eating something scrumptious as a thunderstorm rolls in outside.