HELLO & WELCOME
Hi! I’m Julia Kestner (she/her/hers), a Japanese-American illustrator based in San Diego, California. I create inclusive, empowering, and uplifting illustrations for socially responsible companies that are making the world a better place.
My passion lies in creating artwork with heart and purpose to promote positive change. My work focuses on topics I care deeply about, such as mental health, gender equality, social justice, and empowerment. I love creating colorful, vibrant, and purpose-driven illustrations paired with gentle reminders that help my audience feel seen.
I am currently available for editorial illustrations, advertising & campaign work, art licensing, murals, and illustrations for products & packaging.
You can learn more about my story here.
SELECT CLIENTS
YouTube
Ulta Beauty
Always
T.J.Maxx
HomeGoods
Marshalls
Good Housekeeping Magazine
Mediavine
FEATURES
Ulta Beauty - Beauty Without Limits Celebrates Asian Pacific Heritage Month
Mediavine - We Stand With You Campaign
Instagram x Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Guide: Stop Asian Hate
Shoutout SoCal - Meet Julia Kestner: Hand Letterer, Designer, & Mental Health Advocate
SD Voyager - Check out Julia Kestner’s Artwork
Permission to Become Podcast - Permission to Create Purpose-Driven Art
KIND WORDS
"We would highly recommend working with Julia."
Julia’s artistic work first and foremost is fantastic and suited our needs perfectly. She was very prompt in her communication, and she was kind and easy to work with. The quality of her work is excellent and her customer service is friendly and very professional.
Josh and Lindsay Aviner, creative producers, Hideaway Circus
"Working with Julia was incredible!"
It's so wonderful to be able to collaborate with not only talented people, but also like-minded, good, thoughtful, and amazing people like Julia! Working with her was wonderful, especially with regards to her professionalism, artistry, and partnership. The artwork she created is stunning and so powerful!
KHA, singer-songwriter
"Julia was a delight to work with!"
Julia really took the time to understand me and my book and was very intentional in creating images and typography that represented my message. Julia is patient and professional. I would highly recommend her!
Iris Chen, author
"Julia’s talent is truly unmatched."
I would absolutely recommend Julia’s services to all creatives. I would say that working with Julia was an amazing experience. I wanted a design that was unique, engaging, and fun and the final product exceeded my expectations!
Alexis Nicole, brand strategist & creative director