Manu Cunhas — Brazilian Character Illustrator

Manu Cunhas is an experienced Brazilian illustrator whose work highlights bold, powerful and eccentric women characters. There’s a positive vibe to what she creates – a sense of fun, with a strong feminine identity, brought to life by Manu’s unique visual language.

Based in the city of Florianópolis, Manu has clients across Brazil and further afield. She works with a range of publishers and broadcasters, creating character-led artwork perfect for editorial and book publishing, as well as advertising and online campaigns. Many of her clients return time and again because they know she’s organised, listens to what they want and works quickly to deliver their projects. Manu studied graphic design at UDESC and has immersed herself in a range of artistic techniques throughout her career – watercolour, gouache and, of course, digital. She’s inspired by people and nature, a hint of magic, and creatives including Neil Gaiman, Charles Vess and Fefe Torquato.

Approach

Manu dives deep into the concept behind each project, and the story of each character, using them to drive the style, colours and small details in the imagery.

Styles

There are two broad styles Manu works in. The first is for younger audiences, with strong forms, a reduced palette and a childlike sense of wonder. Her second style is rich, elaborate and detailed, more mature and ideal for projects with serious themes.