Hello!

My name is Isabella Raines and I’m an illustrator, designer and maker from southern West Virginia with a passion for folklore, storytelling, and advocacy for Appalachian representation in visual media. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Cleveland Institute of Art in 2023 with a BFA in Illustration.

I take inspiration from the principles of American Regionalism and imagery of rural Appalachia when creating work. I use whatever I can get my hands on traditionally, whether that be ink, gouache, charcoal or block printing, and bring it all together with modern digital processes. To me, this process best reflects the Appalachian experience of creation, to search and salvage piece by piece until you’ve created something inspiring.

I am most interested in freelance work for picture books, character design, visual development, and product design.

I look forward to working with you!

Client List:

American Greetings, Warner Media/TNT, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, PK Financial,

Cleveland Orchestra, The Grog Shop

Gallery Shows and Awards

The Society of Illustrators Student Scholarship Competition 2023 Exhibition

“Pure Imagination” Cleveland Institute of Art Illustration Department Showcase 2023

Gund Family Scholarship 2019-2023