About

Hi! I’m Julissa. I illustrate for the Children and Teen market. Thank you for stopping by. A little about me and how I got started... I'm a Cuban American that was born and raised in Miami. I love my Cuban culture, especially the food. To me there is nothing more comforting than a plate of Cuban black beans and rice, with a side of tostones - of course! I always start my mornings with a cup of cafécito accompanied by the new addition to our family, baby Valentina. We are truly blessed. I've always been drawn to children's books, but she has given me a new appreciation for them.

I graduated from Ringling College of Art and Design, with a BFA in Illustration. After graduating, I worked as in-house graphic artist for a New York Times regional newspaper, a senior art and publications specialist at the University of Florida, and as an illustrator/graphic artist for American Greetings.  Here is where I found my love for all things cute. In 2010, I took a leap of faith and stepped into the world of freelance and have not looked back since. Today I enjoy creating hip/ whimsical children’s style art, as well as themes highlighting teens. I have also found a new love for Surface Design. I work out of my home studio in Austin, Texas, where I've recently relocated with my family.

Client list: American Girl, American Greetings, Capstone Publishing, Duopress, Educational Insights, High Five Magazine, Highlights for Children, Kiwi Magazine, Melcher Media, McGraw-Hill, Oxford University Press, Penguin Random House, Positive Promotions, RSVP Publications, Scholastic, Target, and many more.

Client recommendations

Julissa has worked on numerous projects for us over the years. She is responsible for the playful and whimsical look of our Magic Moves line, consisting of 3 separate products, one including a 16 page book. This year, Julissa was challenged with interpreting the classic fairy tale “The Elves and the Shoemaker” for our Hot Dots Jr. line, and the result is a modern and attractive take. What makes Julissa stand out from the dozens of illustrators we work with is her positive attitude and not being afraid to propose creative ideas. She makes the illustrator-designer work relationship a collaborative and interactive one, resulting in a product that everyone is happy with. I highly recommend Julissa and can’t wait to work with her again on another project!

Jessie Min
Design Manager at Educational Insights

Julissa has done 2 large illustration book projects, and several smaller commissions for me at Positive Promotions. I loved her style the first time I saw it online—convinced others she was great for the job. Our Smart Parenting book is a success and I think the artwork remains fresh and attractive almost 8 years later. Recently she illustrated an early-learning teacher planner and it was a huge success. Her style is great because it is whimsical and appeals to professional people as well (you know what I mean). She is great to work with. Love the textures!

Martin Heinritz
Art Director, Positive Promotions