We all need an escape from time to time, and especially in times like these. When ADC Member and illustrator Isabel Castillo Guijarro sent us a rendering of a tropical beach, we felt as if we could touch the warmth emitting from the glow of pink and red. Originally from Madrid and based in New York City, Isabel captures the hedonistic mood we’re craving. We followed up with Isabel on her work including branding for Refinery29’s Beach House this past summer (pictured above) and found out what she’s up to next.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your creative journey.

I always liked the idea of being an artist but never took an art class until Senior Year in High School. At that time I was really lost and had no idea what to do with my life, so after traveling all over Europe, I started Creative Advertising in Dubai, prior to spending a summer at Central Saint Martins in London and eventually moving to New York to study Communication Design at Parsons. It’s been six years since that moment and I haven’t stoped designing, working and just recently, illustrating!

Tell us what this project is about.

This is not one project, but rather the result of combining different illustrations from previews projects with the same color scheme. They each come from different clients but the reds, the pinks and the contrast between light and bright, make it all work cohesively.

What are your must-have tools while working?

Coffee. Music. Wacom tablet.

Any ideas that didn’t make the cut?

I tried about a thousand different mouths but couldn’t make it work until this one! There is only so much you can subtract from an illustration to really make it work at its simplest form.

Tell us about your color palette.

I’ve only been illustrating for a year or so. With that in mind, I’ve been trying many different styles and color combinations. So I feel like I’ve been constantly changing and constantly trying new things.

How would you describe your style of illustration to someone in 5 words or less?

Colorful. Girls. Sensual. Elevated. Unique.

Anything else from you we should look out for in the near future?

Just got some prints on Tictail, which I’m really excited about. If you happen to be in New York, you should definitely check out their store on Orchard Street . Work-wise, I’m currently doing a set of illustrations for Feeld. A London based dating site (that will soon take over the world!) where you can meet couples and singles with minds that breathe freedom. Stay tuned!