Inclusive, empowering, and uplifting illustrations for socially responsible companies.

Hi! I’m Julia, an illustrator who specializes in creating artwork with heart and purpose to promote positive change. I work with collaborators and companies who value the same things and who are making the world a better place.

SELECT CLIENTS & FEATURES

SERVICES & SPECIALTIES

I offer a variety of services, tailored to your needs and budget. How about an illustration for…

  • Illustrations for advertising campaigns and social media marketing.

  • Explore my art licensing portfolio and pick your favorites. From stationery and home goods, to textile and apparel, let’s create products that dazzle and delight customers.

  • Editorial illustrations for newspapers and magazines, articles, web features, book covers, and book interior design.

  • Custom murals that elevate your business, generate brand awareness, and make a big impact. Make an unforgettable first impression with a mural.

  • Custom, exclusive artwork for your products and/or packaging.

 

UPLIFTING PRODUCTS FOR YOUR HEART & HOME

MEET THE ARTIST

Hi there! I’m Julia Kestner, a Japanese-American illustrator based in San Diego, California. I create inclusive, empowering, and uplifting illustrations for socially responsible companies that are making the world a better place. My work focuses on mental health, gender equality, social justice, and empowerment. I love creating colorful, vibrant, and purpose-driven illustrations paired with gentle reminders.

FIND ME ON INSTAGRAM

San Diego friends! I’ve been taking a little break from markets to focus on client work, but I couldn’t say no to being a part of @makersarcade this weekend! ☀️ Come say hi and shop small from 120+ artists & vendors. 💕 Where: Waterf
Thank you so much for all the love and support on my @walmart mural! This piece was inspired by the awe I felt when I first moved to San Diego 10 years ago. I remember going to the Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas and witnessing the majestic suns
My new mural is up at @walmart in Encinitas! 🌅 It’s truly surreal to see my artwork at such a large scale. 😱 I created this piece digitally using a mix of Procreate and Photoshop, and they printed it out 10x bigger and installed it on the w
“This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn.” - Frederick Douglass
No one is illegal on stolen land. From Los Angeles to Palestine, may we remember that humanity must come first. ❤️
LA friends - Join me this weekend at The Downtown Burbank Summer Arts Festival! 💕 Experience 4 blocks of handmade artisans, food, and family fun!  🌏WHERE: San Fernando Blvd (from Magnolia to Angeleno) 📅WHEN: Sat May 31st & Sun June
Happy National Small Business Week! Every time you support a small biz like mine, you’re not just buying a product - you’re supporting a dream, a family, an artist, and a community. Did you know that small businesses:
💛 Tend to give ba
Thank you @goldenguideorg for an incredible weekend! My heart is so full and I’m filled to the brim with gratitude. 💓 It was truly such a special feeling to connect with so many of you in person, to hear your kind words about my products, and
Market season is here! 🌷💕 I’m so excited to be a part of so many incredible markets! Now more than ever, your support helps artists and makers keep doing what we love. Come shop small, support local, and celebrate community this spring! Sw
Happy Earth Day, today and every day. 🌎💚
Spring market season is here! 🌷 After taking a long break from markets after the holidays, it feels so good to be back! Being able to connect with people IRL, seeing people resonate with my artwork, and hearing such kind of words of encouragement i
Today is International Trans Day of Visibility, a day to celebrate transgender and non-binary people around the world. 🏳️‍⚧️💕 It’s more important than ever to protect and celebrate the trans community, especially in the midst of current