Vanessa Landin is the talented Ecuadorian illustrator behind the vibrant images in Wally the Warm-Weather Penguin. She brought energy and life to the wonderful Galapagos Island animals in the story. Vanessa agreed to give us a behind-the-scenes look at how she created the illustrations when she answered a few questions earlier this month.

1) Tell us a bit about yourself

Well I grew up in Guayaquil, Ecuador. I’m still living here in the city of Guayaquil. The funny thing about me is that I have never been to Galapagos, but I know everything about it because I love animals and plants. All my life, since [I was] a kid, I have loved art, designing, colors…artistic stuff. And what can I say? If you are born an illustrator, well show the world the power and gifts you are raised with.

2) What is your process when you create illustrations? And what do you love most about illustrating?

First I always draw on paper all the doodles of the illustration I have in mind, and start drawing on paper all my ideas. I do look for references, and keep [myself going] with MUSIC! [I’m] never more comfortable creating illustrations [then] while singing [my] favorite song!

What I like the most about illustrating is the time I [have to myself], a time where I’m alone, with no worries, no one to interrupt, only me and the paper.

3) What was your favorite animal to create in Wally the Warm-Weather Penguin? Why was it your favorite?

Well I really enjoyed doing all the animals in the story, [but the one] I like the most is Sally the Crab. I love the colors and the fact that they were dancing, it’s AMAZING. They look really cute. I really liked them!

4) What is next for you and where can we see more of your work?

Well I do have a project in mind [with] ONLY ILLUSTRATIONS, but right now it is [on] stand by. I hope there will be another edition of WALLY’S ADVENTURE, so I can keep showing the world the amazing adventures of this guy and bring happiness to people that really appreciate the art of telling a story with graphic design!

If you have any questions or comments for Vanessa, feel free to add them here as a comment or contact her through the Contact Page.