COVA SANDES
Cova Sandes is a freelance illustrator based in Madrid, Spain, who specializes in illustrating children’s books and creating artwork for kids.
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CREATIVE STATEMENT
My interest in children’s books began early, when my mother gifted me a beautiful collection of classic picture books by different authors and illustrators. I still remember redrawing some of those illustrations, trying to hold on to the worlds and feelings they created. Over the years, my expertise in picture-book illustration has grown through editorial projects, daily practice, and personal storytelling inspired by my children and our dog, Pipo. As an illustrator specializing in children’s books, I create whimsical, painterly worlds filled with warmth, curiosity, and inclusion. I believe the most successful picture books are those that make your imagination fly—inviting you into magical worlds, emotional journeys, and small details that stay with you long after the page is turned. To maintain my skillset, I continue learning, experimenting, developing personal projects, and immersing myself in picture books that inspire me.
RECENT CLIENTS
- Ayuntamiento de Oviedo
- Amadeus International School
- The Asturianer
Q&A
What was your favorite storybook as a child?
One of the books that marked me most was The Happy Prince by Oscar Wilde, illustrated by Joanna Isles—it still moves me deeply today. I was also endlessly drawn to picture books like The Snow Child by Freya Littledale, both could hold my attention for hours. Alongside them were magical chapter books such as The Chronicles of Narnia, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, and The Witches. Anything fantastical that transported me to another world completely captured my heart.
Which authors do you admire most?
I admire authors and author-illustrators who combine emotional depth with visual storytelling, from Oscar Wilde, Roahl Dahl, C.S. Lewis, and Eric Carle to contemporary creators like Oliver Jeffers, Carson Ellis, Júlia Sardà, and Felicita Sala. Their work makes a child’s imagination fly, it is rich with textures, details and compelling characters.
What characteristic really brings a children’s book to life?
For me, a children’s book truly comes to life when the characters feel emotionally real—kids can recognise themselves in their fears, curiosity, and joy—and when the illustrated world feels so inviting they want to climb inside the page and stay there a little longer, see what happens, look for tiny details or backstories. The most memorable books don’t just tell a story—they spark imagination, create connection, and gently transport you somewhere else, leaving a feeling that stays with you long after the book is closed.
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