As an author-illustrator, I draw inspiration from two primary sources: childhood memories and the colors surrounding us. Some of my earliest recollections include running towards my grandmother's arms at age two, enjoying long summers by the ocean, and spending afternoons playing games with my block friends. Nature also inspires me, from the blooming Jacaranda trees that turn the streets of Buenos Aires purple in November to the soft pink hues of cherry blossoms in springtime and the ochre tones of Ginkgo trees in autumn in Washington, DC. All of these experiences inspire my artistic practice.

I am grateful that my parents instilled in me a love for illustration. My dad’s engineering mindset inspired my passion for drawing, while my mom, the daughter of an immigrant who owned a newsstand, instilled in me a love for books and magazines. As a child, reading children's magazines introduced me to the enchanting world of illustrations, which inspired me to pursue my dreams. Thanks to my parents, I was free to follow my heart. 

I am a self-taught author-illustrator with a background in social sciences. I earned my law degree from Buenos Aires University and a Master's in political science from Virginia Tech. I am the youngest of three siblings and grew up in the suburbs of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

I live in Washington, DC, with my husband and two loud but adorable dogs, Tango and Yoffee.

I provide illustrations for magazines, board books, picture books, early readers, and middle-grade book covers. For work inquiries, contact me at: hello@martinillustrates.com

Instagram: @martinillustrates