nice to virtually meet you!

I was born in Rome, Italy, in the 80s, and ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved drawing cute characters.

In 2014, I moved to Berlin with my husband and two cats. After several years as a graphic designer, I decided it was time to pursue my childhood dream: making a living from my illustrations!

I found my way into the publishing world in 2020 and have been working on picture books ever since. My debut book was published by the Mexican division of Penguin Random House, Alfaguara. I still remember the excitement of being asked to illustrate a series of three books!

My first book as both author and illustrator, Draw Kawaii Style, was published by The Quarto Group and has been translated into multiple languages.

After years of drawing my own characters, I was given the opportunity to bring them to life in a new adventure, a series published by Happy Yak (The Quarto Group), launching in 2025. I can't wait to see where this journey takes me!

I've also created an online course about Kawaii art on Domestika, and you can find my illustrations and other merchandise in my Etsy shop.

My creative process usually starts with sketching using just a pencil. I then add vibrant colors digitally using my iPad and Procreate. When I'm not immersed in illustrations, I cherish time with my little boy, explore the city, meet good friends, lose myself in bookstores (particularly in the children's books section, of course!), indulge in pizza, or simply relax at home watching a good TV series. Just so you know, I am obsessed with Friends!

For commissions or any questions, feel free to drop me a line at ilariapopsillustration.ranauro@gmail.com.

FAQs

Where did you study illustration?

I am a self-taught illustrator. I graduated in Graphic Design in Rome, where some of my classes already included illustration. As a child, all I wanted to do was draw, but I ended up working as a graphic designer for 10 years. In 2017, I realised I had to follow my true passion, so I changed my path and became an illustrator.

Where do you work?

I am based in Berlin where I have my own studio in Friedrichshain.

How do you work? What is your favorite medium?

I mainly work digitally. I like to start my sketches with coloured pencils and then bring them to life using my iPad and Procreate.

Do you take commissions?

Yes! I am open to collaborations with publishers for children’s books. Take a look at my Books section to see the titles I’ve illustrated so far.

I have a small business. Would you design my logo?

Yes! I worked as a graphic designer for many years and have extensive experience with logo design. Feel free to send me a message. Please check the How much do you charge? section below for more details.

I’m an author. Would you illustrate my children’s book?

If you are a self-publishing author looking to hire an illustrator, you can contact me for a quote. Please read the How much do you charge? section below for more details.

How much do you charge?

I don’t have a fixed price list, most illustrators don’t. Pricing depends on several factors. To provide you with an accurate quote, I need the following details:

  • How many illustrations do you need?

  • What will the illustrations be used for? (e.g., book or magazine cover, billboard, greeting card, poster, app)

  • Where will the illustrations be used? (A single country or worldwide? The licensing area greatly affects pricing.)

  • How long will the illustrations be used? (Licensing agreements specify the duration of use.)

  • Your budget.

  • Your deadline. (When do you need the illustrations?)

Do you have a different question?

Feel free to drop me a message here: ilariapops.illustration@gmail.com! 😊