Early Influences and Artistic Background
Fernando Juarez, a talented Spanish illustrator, has made a name for himself in the world of children’s books and animation. Growing up, Juarez was captivated by classic European comics like The Adventures of Tintin and Asterix and Obelix. These early influences, combined with the atmospheric fantasy of artists such as Alan Lee and Brian Froud, shaped his unique approach to illustration. After studying graphic design and illustration at the Ramón Falcón Art School in Lugo, Spain, Juarez began to carve out his own artistic path.
Signature Style: Playful Characters and Magical Realism
Juarez’s illustration style is instantly recognizable. He is known for creating playful, comical characters with exaggerated features—bendy limbs, large expressive faces—set against backgrounds that evoke a sense of wonder and atmosphere. His work often blends a cartoonish sensibility with realistic settings, resulting in a “realistic style with a touch of fantastic atmosphere.” Juarez typically starts with pencil sketches before digitally painting his scenes in Photoshop, maintaining both spontaneity and polish.
Career Highlights: Animation and Children’s Book Illustration
Juarez’s career took a significant leap when he joined the world of 3D animation, working at Bren Entertainment and later as an art supervisor at Ilion Animation Studios in Madrid. There, he contributed to major animated films like Planet 51, collaborating with a diverse team of artists and learning the intricacies of visual storytelling.
In the realm of publishing, Juarez has illustrated covers for notable books such as Rita Murphy’s Bird and Christine Brodien-Jones’s The Owl Keeper. He has also brought classic tales like Jack and the Beanstalk, Hansel and Gretel, and Japanese Tales to life with his distinctive illustrations. His client list includes major publishers such as Penguin Random House, Faber & Faber, and Oxford University Press.
Creative Process and Philosophy
Juarez finds the most creative freedom in children’s books, where shorter texts and open-ended descriptions allow him to experiment with style and express his personal vision. He values the collaborative nature of illustration, especially when working closely with graphic designers and authors to create compelling book covers and engaging story art.