Julissa was born and raised in Miami in a Cuban household. It was her grandfather, Virgilio who sparked her interest in the arts. "He was always full of long, colorful tales about his past. One afternoon after telling a story, he took out a pen and paper and illustrated a magical scene. It was so beautiful! I remember the feeling I got when he turned the paper to show us his drawing. I wanted that gift! After that day, I worked on my drawings any chance I could get. Growing up, I never lost my passion for it. It was like a burning flame that was lit that day and has never gone out."

Julissa attended Ringling College of Art and Design and graduated with a BFA in Illustration. After graduation, she pursued her career and worked as a graphic designer and illustrator. In 2006, one of her long-time goals came true. She began her freelance career out of her home studio. She now lives and works in New York City. When not illustrating, she enjoys the outdoors, exploring new things, cooking, and whatever life brings her way!

CLIENT LIST: American Greetings, Kiwi Magazine, Macmillan Education, McGraw-Hill, National Geographic School Publishing, Oxford University Press, Peekaboo Studios, Positive Promotions, Scholastic & Weekly Reader Publishing