My name is Wanda Moreno-Aguilar with pronouns she/her. I am a Freelance Illustrator based in Wyoming, Michigan. I work traditionally and digitally, mostly enjoying portrait, narrative, and children’s book illustrations. Still, I do a bit of everything, including ceramics and sculptural work. I am originally from Mexico, but I have resided in Michigan for most of my life and became a recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in 2014. After graduating in the top ten of my class in 2017 from Godfrey-Lee High School, I started my illustration career at the Grand Rapids Community College. A career path no one expected me to take.

At GRCC, I spent roughly three years exploring fine arts and building my portfolio. Shortly after, in 2019, I welcomed my son into the world, and he now keeps me super busy and motivated. Following the birth of my son, I continued my studies at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University for my bachelor’s degree in Illustration. I am currently a senior there, graduating in December of 2022. Overall, growing up, I experienced a lot of uncertainty and mental health issues. I spent countless times questioning my identity, culture, and language. It never made sense what I had to contribute to society to feel accepted. However, I found what made me happy and a way to express and represent myself and my community through art. By putting my work out there, I hope to inspire other Latino/a artists considering an art career to pursue their dreams. I love oil painting, reading, and spending time outdoors with my son outside of school.