The Art of Eilie★Astara

Writer, Illustrator & Designer

Writer, Illustrator & Designer
★Download CV★

Hello There!

Eilie Astara is an artist and writer who transforms ideas into worlds that inspire wonder, spark joy, and leave a touch of magic. She creates children’s books and graphic novels with whimsical characters and engaging stories, where imagination bridges ideas, emotions, and hearts. Each brushstroke, each story, is an invitation to explore, reflect, and awaken imagination, turning every page into a magical experience for readers of all ages.

Eilie’s work spans illustration, book design, branding, and art direction. She begins every project with discovery by immersing herself in the story, audience, and core idea, then develops sketches, layouts, and visual concepts refined to their strongest, most impactful form. Collaboration and attention to detail ensure that every character, page, and visual element aligns with the story’s emotional and creative intent.

E-mail me at: eilieastara@gmail.com

Skills

Art & Design: Art Direction, Creative Direction, Illustration, Design, Layout, Publication Design, Typography, Brand Identity, Visual Storytelling, Print & Digital

Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, Acrobat), Canva, Procreate, Clip Studio Paint, MS Office

Creative: Storyboarding, Visual Narrative Development, Color Theory, Composition, Print Production

Interpersonal: Cross-Functional Collaboration, Team Leadership, Mentorship, Client Communication, Creative Management, Relationship Building, Vendor Management

Exhibitions

  • Illustrator Showcase, SCBWI Winter Conference, January 2026

  • Power in Numbers 7: Postcard Art Show at Gallery Nucleus, October 2022

  • Silverspring Halloween Market, October 2022

  • Manassas Halloween Market, October 2022

  • Burke Centre Festival, September 2022

  • Fairfax Comic Con, August 2022

  • Toronto Comic Arts Festival, June 2022

  • Toronto Comic Arts Digital Festival, May 2020

  • Vancouver Comic Arts Festival, May 2018

  • Fremont Farmer’s Market, 2016-2018

  • Spring for Zines!, April 2018

  • Seattle SCBWI Conference Illustrator Showcase,

  • Drawn to Books Exhibition, Seattle City Hall, Jan 2018

  • artEast Fantastical Worlds Exhibition, Nov 2017

  • SCBWI Exhibition, WA State Convention Center, Aug 2016

  • Seattle Barnes & Noble B-Fest Featured Artist, July 2016

  • RAW Artists Showcase June 2016

Memberships

Recognition & Highlights

  • Kickstarter Success: Launched my original graphic novel raising $10,000+

  • Award-Winning Design: contributed to 30+ educational board games designed and illustrated, earning 60+ industry awards

  • 10+ self-published children’s books and graphic novels

Awards

  • Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Fellowship (2011-2012)

  • VCU Dean’s List (2009-2013)

  • K.I. Dean’s Scholarship (2012-2013)

  • Dean’s Scholarship (2012)

  • K.I. Award of Excellence (2011)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: Owl Solve That! (lead designer), Teachers' Choice Award (2019)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: ARTributes: Describe & Draw (lead designer), Play on Words (PAL) Award (2018)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: ARTributes: Describe & Draw (lead designer), Play on Words (PAL) Top Ten (2018)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: Amalgam (co-designer), Mensa Select Winner (2018)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: Tempting Treats (lead designer), National Parenting Product Awards (2017)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: What If? Chat Ring (lead designer), Moms' Choice Awards (2017)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: What If? Chat Ring (lead designer), Moms' Best Award (2017)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: What If? Chat Ring (lead designer), Parents' Choice Approved (2017)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: Animal Snacks (lead designer), National Parenting Product Awards (2016)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: Alphabet Woods (co-designer), Play on Words (PAL) Awards (2016)

  • SimplyFun Board Game: Alphabet Woods (co-designer), Play on Words (PAL) Top Ten (2016)