Picture a Spanish storyteller who weaves magic with colors and words, inviting readers into whimsical worlds—meet Beatrice Blue! A self-taught illustrator and visual development artist, Beatrice has enchanted audiences with her bestselling children’s books and vibrant artwork for giants like DreamWorks and Apple TV. Her stories, brimming with nature-inspired wonder, capture the hearts of readers young and old.
Born in Madrid, Spain, Beatrice’s creations are a love letter to childhood imagination, blending playful characters with lush, magical settings. From her celebrated ‘Once Upon’ series to her art direction on animated series, her work radiates joy and creativity. Let’s dive into the world of Beatrice Blue!
The Making of Beatrice Blue
Born on April 18, 1991, in Spain, Beatrice Blue grew up with a passion for art, sketching from the age of three. Without a formal university degree, she honed her craft through two years of graphic design studies in Madrid, followed by three years at the National Academy Museum and School of Fine Arts and the Art Students League in New York City. Her parents’ encouragement and a move to New York at 19 to study anatomy fueled her artistic journey. Inspired by nature, folklore, and authors like Neil Gaiman and Roald Dahl, Beatrice carved a unique path as a freelance artist, balancing illustration with visual development.
Beatrice Blue’s Unforgettable Stories
Beatrice’s ‘Once Upon’ series has cemented her as a beloved children’s author. Her debut, Once Upon a Unicorn Horn (2019), a whimsical tale about the origins of unicorns, was nominated for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2020 and translated into over 16 languages. Once Upon a Dragon’s Fire (2020) explores friendship and courage through vibrant illustrations of mythical creatures. Once Upon a Mermaid’s Tail (2020) and Once Upon a Witch’s Broom (2022) weave enchanting neo-folktales with a modern twist, celebrating individuality.
Her art book, Wonder: The Art and Practice of Beatrice Blue (2020), offers a glimpse into her creative process, showcasing her luminous, textured illustrations. Beatrice’s work extends to animation, including art direction for Apple TV+’s Wolfboy and the Everything Factory and character design for Cartoon Network’s We Bare Bears. Her style—rich with vibrant colors, intricate details, and a folktale charm—creates immersive worlds that spark imagination.
Beatrice also founded the ‘Childhood Week’ social media challenge, encouraging artists to reconnect with their inner child. Her love for travel, music, and nature, often accompanied by her dog, Jungle, infuses her work with a sense of adventure and warmth.
Why Beatrice Blue Matters
Beatrice Blue’s impact lies in her ability to blend timeless storytelling with modern flair, making her a standout in children’s literature and animation. Her books, translated globally, inspire young readers to embrace creativity and individuality. In animation, her visual development work for DreamWorks and Apple TV+ brings fantastical worlds to life, influencing a new generation of artists. Her self-taught journey and ‘Childhood Week’ initiative empower aspiring creators to find joy in art.
By celebrating the magic of everyday moments, Beatrice reminds us that wonder is always within reach. Her legacy is one of imagination, inviting readers and artists alike to dream big.
About Beatrice Blue
- Birth Date: April 18, 1991
- Key Works: Once Upon a Unicorn Horn, Once Upon a Dragon’s Fire, Wonder: The Art and Practice of Beatrice Blue
- Notable Collaborations: DreamWorks TV, Apple TV+, Nickelodeon
- Award Nomination: Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2020
Snag Once Upon a Unicorn Horn and dive into Beatrice Blue’s magical, color-soaked worlds today!