04: Venezuelan Illustrator, Natali Koromoto Martinez

Draws in Spanish | Conversations with Latinx Visual Artists and Designers

In this episode, I sit down with Natali Martinez to uncover where she draws inspiration for her cute illustration style, how her Venezuelan roots influence her work and perspective, and exactly what goes into getting started with an online shop.

Natali, who unexpectedly moved to Florida after Chavez took power in Venezuela, pursued a degree in animation only to realize she didn’t have the patience for the field. After graduation, she took a leap of faith and moved with her friends to NYC, where she began her freelance career.

During this time, she slowly began creating her own illustrations and developing her voice and style. Now, Natali has a loyal following of 180k Instagram followers who love her cute illustrations and buy into her world through prints, pins, apparel, and plushies.

Natali is already working on her next big project by launching an apparel line with her partner later this year.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

1. Moving from Venezuela to the U.S.
2. Starting her Small Business from Scratch
3. Raising awareness of Latinx culture by depicting Latinx foods and desserts
4. What Inspires her Playful, Cute, and Unique Style
5. The Pros and Cons of Working with Manufacturers
6. Tips for Starting Your Own Online Shop

Guest Info

Connect with Natali on Instagram and check out her shop here.

Bonus Links:

• More About Mafalda
• Early Simpsons Colors
• Natali’s Spongebob Illustrations

Special Offer

Listeners of the podcast can get a free, undated weekly and monthly planner inspired by the show from our website here.

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