Marianna Gefen is a Berlin-based illustrator and artist renowned for her ability to breathe life into visual narratives through various mediums, including watercolor, ink, collage, and vintage paper textures. With both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Illustration and Design, her artistic practice is profoundly influenced by her experiences in vibrant cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, and Hamburg.
Her passion for travel serves as a rich tapestry for her work, as she often captures the essence of her experiences through reportage drawings that reflect diverse cultures and environments. Whether traversing the Trans-Siberian Express or exploring remote locales, her artistic lens transforms ordinary moments into compelling visual stories. Reflecting on her time on the train, she states, “Painting on a moving train, with limited space, freezing temperatures and constant motion, taught me how to be efficient, fast, and focused.”
Throughout her career, Marianna has had the privilege of collaborating with an impressive roster of clients, including prestigious names such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Vogue. These partnerships allow her to bring her unique perspective to a diverse range of projects, from intricate editorial illustrations to high-profile fashion campaigns. Her original artworks have graced galleries worldwide, reflecting her commitment to making art engaging and accessible.
In addition to her creative endeavors, Marianna is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists. As a lecturer in illustration and design, she imparts her knowledge and passion to students, encouraging them to find and develop their unique artistic voices. “Your unique voice won’t appear overnight, but it will emerge through steady practice, experimentation and self-reflection,” she advises.
Always eager to embrace new challenges and collaborations, Marianna continues to search for innovative projects to expand her horizons. Her latest commissions include exciting collaborations with Vogue Mexico and the United Nations, alongside a book cover set to be released soon.
Recently, her work has been exhibited in renowned galleries, such as the Kommunale Galerie in Berlin and the Royal Watercolour Society in London, further solidifying her place in the contemporary art scene. Her contributions to interviews and features in respected publications, including Mia Le Journal and Brenda Magazine, highlight her influence and the resonance of her art in today’s cultural landscape.
With a commitment to storytelling and a dedication to her craft, Marianna stands out as a multi-dimensional artist whose work invites viewers to explore the world through her eyes. As she best puts it, “Try it—not tomorrow, today. Don’t wait for the perfect moment… The journey is the reward.” This philosophy not only drives her artistic process but also inspires her students to embrace their creativity without hesitation.
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