Meet Veronica Parra

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Parra.

Hi Veronica, can you introduce yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always loved drawing, ever since I was a kid. My dad and sister were my first teachers, and by fourth grade, I knew that is what I wanted to do for a living. Growing up in Maracaibo, Venezuela, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design because it was the closest thing to illustration available. I absolutely loved it.

During my studies, I took an elective in illustration, which really reminded me how much I loved creating children’s books. After graduating, I was determined to continue my education in the U.S., inspired by my older brother, who had done the same. I was accepted into the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Atlanta, where I earned my M.A. in Illustration.

After SCAD, I did a couple of internships that helped me hone my skills further. These experiences were invaluable, giving me hands-on practice and insight into the industry. Post-graduation, I worked with wayfinding signage for almost four years. This role was filled with learning opportunities and personal growth.

In 2017, I had the unique experience of working remotely while traveling through Chile, Argentina, and Venezuela. This period was challenging and rewarding, allowing me to grow independently and meet amazing people from different parts of the world. By March 2018, I returned to Atlanta and rejoined the company at its headquarters. In 2020, I decided it was time for a change and decided to focus on my freelance illustration. I joined Parra & Co. with the intention of helping the company grow.

I’ve published three books so far: *Elephants are Awesome*, *Angie’s Affirmations*, and *The Story of Pluto*. I am currently working on updating the look of Elephants Are Awesome and, later on, releasing my own spinoff of Red Riding Hood. Alongside this, I’m the Marketing Lead & Chief Illustrator for Parra & Co., a family-owned and Texas-based civil engineering firm. For Parra & Co, my job is more structured, going from content creation for social media to business development.

Separately, I do take freelance clients every once in a while. Recently, I’ve been working with an education center in Hong Kong called Eggie, and it’s an absolute pleasure to create illustrations for them. I share some of my freelance work occasionally on my Instagram and TikTok (@vero_sparkles), although lately, it has shifted to be more geared toward lifestyle content and collaborating with brands that I love.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. There were times when I often wondered if I was even on the right path and others where I had no idea how I was going to make things happen. In retrospect, I’ve noticed that I often achieve what I want, though most of the time, it has not been within my set timeline but the universe’s timeline. I’m glad for that now.

One of the first big hurdles was financial. I wanted to study in the U.S. since I was six or seven years old, but right after high school, it wasn’t an option. Instead, I stayed in Venezuela and pursued a degree in Graphic Design. I was SO majorly bummed and annoyed at the beginning, but I ended up meeting some of my best friends there, was able to have strong foundations in graphic design that I would not trade, and simply had an amazing time overall.

When I finally made it to SCAD for my M.A. in Illustration, it was a fantastic experience but also incredibly demanding. Balancing intense coursework, internships, adjusting to a new country, and the occasional boy drama was much more to deal with than I was used to. However, I believe the hard work paid off. I got to meet great mentors and friends, and I have had experiences that have helped me become who I am today. This was my first time away from home and the beginning of learning what being there for myself meant.

After graduation, my student visa expired, and returning to Venezuela wasn’t an option. I ended up moving to Chile, which was another huge transition. I didn’t know anyone there, I didn’t know how long I’d be there, and I had to move apartments about four times within a year. The Spanish there is also very different from the one I grew up with, so there was a lot that I didn’t understand for a long time, but eventually, I did understand it.

I made some friends and got to live in a gorgeous part of the capital. I visited Argentina a few times, which had always been a dream of mine, and it did not disappoint. I got my bag stolen at a mall in Chile, so I had to go back to Venezuela for a new passport. It was scary, but I had the time of my life with my little cousin there.

I could go on and on, but I think you get the point: sometimes, it takes a while to get to where we want to be, but there are always enjoyable experiences along the way. We need to put in the work but also relax and know that we will eventually get there.

I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in children’s illustration and graphic design, focusing on bringing stories to life through whimsical and introspective approaches.

While I often start a piece by sketching it by hand, I also frequently sketch directly on the iPad, and the majority of my work is digital. I prefer my illustrations to be simple and clear, though I’m constantly evolving and aiming to enhance my visual narrative and storytelling skills.

I’m recognized for the energy I infuse into my work, reflecting my joyful outlook on life and positive energy. This likely stems from my background. I am from Maracaibo, Venezuela, where embracing happiness amid chaos is a common trait. Ultimately, I believe happiness is a personal choice, regardless of external circumstances.

What sets me apart, I believe, is simply the story I’ve lived, my experiences, outlook, and cultural roots. These elements deeply influence my artistic perspective, allowing me to imbue my work with authenticity. When people choose an artist, it’s not just about liking their style; it’s about resonating with the artist’s essence that shines through their work.

My journey has taught me resilience and adaptability, qualities that shape my work ethic and creative process. These attributes enable me to navigate challenges and continually evolve both in children’s illustration and graphic design. My dedication to creating meaningful and visually appealing work continues to drive my artistic growth.

Before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work, collaborate, or support you?
For collaborations, they can reach out to me via email at veronicaparra@veroparra.com or Instagram DM @vero_sparkles.

For support, I’m grateful to anyone who buys my children’s books. They are all available on Amazon. If they share these with their audience and tag me, I’d love to hear their thoughts on my books!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.veroparra.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vero_sparkles/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@vero_sparkles
• Other: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BV1SL4M4?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_S4JJHZKF3SX9S1NPGJZQ