Friday, April 25, 2025

Artist Statement | Juliette Reyes

Juliette Reyes

Artist Statement


I create characters because it brings me joy. There’s something deeply fulfilling

about capturing the essence of a person—whether real or imagined—through

illustration. When I see someone interesting, I view it as a challenge to remember

their defining features. I love studying different body types, facial structures, and

movements, and then applying those observations to my work. People-watching

has become both a source of inspiration and a tool for growth, and watching my

skills develop over time continues to motivate me.


At its core, drawing is how I express myself. It gives me a way to explore my

thoughts, emotions, and creativity, allowing me to reflect parts of who I am

through the characters I design. Much of that inspiration traces back to my

childhood, when I found escape and wonder in the fantastical movies I grew up

with—especially Barbie films and Disney’s 2D animations. I remember imagining

myself as one of the characters, or creating new ones to place into those magical

worlds. I would even try to replicate the artwork in Disney’s Cinderella

storybooks, just so I could learn to draw like that.


Drawing brings me peace. In many ways, my art is a tribute to my younger

self—her imagination, her dedication, and her love for storytelling through

illustration.


Bio:

Juliette is a visual artist from Jersey City, New Jersey. She is pursuing a Bachelor

of Fine Arts at New Jersey City University and is expected to graduate in Spring

2026. Her work includes a range of illustration and commission projects

completed throughout Jersey City. In Spring 2026, she will present a solo

exhibition at the NJCU Gallery highlighting her latest body of work.


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