Born and based in Rimini, Italy.
I graduated from the Politecnico di Milano with a degree in Architecture, specializing in Industrial Design, and I have always been fascinated by the combination of art and technology.
During my university years, I developed a passion for graphic design and visual communication, as well as an interest in the development of new digital technologies.
Graphic Design, Illustration, and Web Design
This led me to discover graphic design and illustration—fields that allow me to blend my technical skills (Photoshop, Illustrator) with my passion for art and visual storytelling.
In 1998, my husband and I opened a graphic and web design agency, where I have been working for more than 20 years.
Since then, I have used drawing and imagery to communicate concepts and ideas.
Children’s Illustration
In 2018, I decided to expand my skills by approaching children’s illustration, a field that enables me to turn not only concepts but also emotions into images.
I then chose to specialize in children’s publishing at the Zavrel Foundation in Sarmede.
I enjoy mixing traditional techniques (pencil and watercolor) with digital methods, aiming to recreate a painterly atmosphere.
I love sharing tips and insights from my craft, which is why I created my creative blog and teach professional courses in illustration, graphic design, and painting for adults, as well as painting workshops for children.
Publications
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2023 – Pancho Panda Esploramondo, published by Officina Milena Kids
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2024 – Il commissario De Ghiris: alla ricerca degli ovetti perduti, text by Antonella Manganelli – illustrations by Barbara Marini, published by Errekappa Edizioni
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2025 – Ma che brutta giornata!, published by Edizioni Il Ciliegio
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2025 – Camilla, text by Alba White – illustrations by Barbara Marini, published by Literary Romance Kids
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2025 – Che emozione Bebo!, text by Dalila Vigezzi – illustrations by Barbara Marini, published by Masciulli Edizioni
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2025 – L’elefantino coraggioso, text by Benedetta and Valentina Calzavara – illustrations by Barbara Marini, published by Tomolo Edigiò
Competitions
Selected as one of the 12 finalists in the illustration contest “Un prato di Fiabe 2025”
(https://www.associazionemarginalia.org/un-prato-di-fiabe-2025/)
In these pages, you’ll find my portfolio, my books, and my illustrations.
The website also includes a blog section with articles and tutorials I write on illustration-related topics, as well as a section with free downloadable resources.
If you’re interested in these subjects and would like to stay in touch, feel free to follow me here and on social media. 🙂
See you soon, and enjoy your visit!
Barbara
Do you have an idea or project and don’t know how to turn it into an image?
Do you have a story, tale, or fairy tale that needs illustrations?
Would you like advice in the fields of design or illustration?
Are you looking for a partner to develop a graphic design or visual-communication project?
Get in touch — I’d be happy to talk about it together.
Email me at: barbara@barbaramarini.com