Julissa was born and raised in Miami in a Cuban household. Her grandfather, Virgilo was the spark of her inspiration. "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. When not illustrating, she enjoys thrift shopping, looking at children’s books, art books, magazines, baking and watching independent movies. She currently lives in Central Florida with her husband and two cats.

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