Vanessa Santos | Contemporary Illustration and Risograph Prints

Vanessa Santos is a multidisciplinary artist and illustrator based in Lisbon, Portugal, whose creative journey is rooted in a deep exploration of feminine beauty and organic forms. After studying Design at IADE and specializing in 2D and 3D Animation at Restart, Vanessa found her primary calling in the world of illustration. Her work is characterized by a strong commitment to body positivity, actively rejecting standardized beauty norms to celebrate the diversity of all body shapes. In 2018, Vanessa Santos launched her first solo exhibition, marking the beginning of a prolific career that includes collaborations with prestigious Portuguese brands such as Adega Maior, D'Aveia, and Josefinas Portugal. While she maintains a professional role as a motion designer at a top advertising agency in Lisbon, her freelance practice allows her to push the boundaries of traditional illustration. Her Big Cartel shop features a curated selection of physical goods, including limited edition risograph prints, "Ao Léu" apparel, and custom family portraits. Influenced by nature, her art often depicts a harmonious connection between the female form and the natural world, utilizing fluid lines and evocative textures. Vanessa’s collection ranges from festive Christmas postcards to large-scale posters and high-quality sweatshirts. Each piece reflects her dedication to craftsmanship and her ability to translate complex emotional themes into accessible visual narratives. Through her work, Vanessa Santos continues to inspire a dialogue about strength, reverence, and the inherent beauty found in the organic world.