Meet Adua | Illustrator & Product Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Adua and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Adua, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I think my first career idea came when I was about five or six. I wanted to make comic strips for the Sunday newspaper. That was always my favorite part of the paper my dad brought home, and I thought it would be the coolest job in the world. After that, the idea of an art career started to feel more like a daydream. No one really talked about art as a serious option, so I explored other paths, medicine, journalism, you name it.

Then I found out about graphic design, which sounded like a creative job that adults would actually take seriously. Once I got into design school, they introduced me to illustration, and that’s when it clicked. I had no idea you could do so much with it. I was all in.

I chose a creative career because making things brings me joy. Whether it’s drawing, painting, or designing, I just love creating. And I feel really lucky that I get to call it my job.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in storytelling. Whether I’m illustrating a children’s book, designing a product, or creating a personal piece, I always aim to capture a feeling: something sincere, something that helps people feel seen. I think what sets my work apart is that emotional thread. I don’t just want things to look beautiful; I want them to mean something.

I’m especially proud of the work I’ve done in children’s publishing. It’s a space where I get to combine everything I love, the narrative, the emotion, the characters, and the overall design that speak directly to young readers, who are some of the most honest and imaginative audiences you can create for. I’m also really excited about building projects that reflect cultural identity and joyful representation. That’s something I care about deeply.

Getting to this point professionally wasn’t easy. I didn’t come from a background where art was encouraged as a career, and for a long time I had to figure things out on my own. There were moments of doubt, burnout, and having to fight to be taken seriously. What got me through was my love for the work and the small but mighty community of people who believed in me. I also learned to advocate for myself, creatively and professionally, which has been one of the biggest lessons.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and my story, it’s that creativity is a form of resilience. I’ve used it to heal, to connect, and to build a life that feels true to who I am. My hope is that my work gives others that same sense of connection, especially kids, but really anyone who needs a little light, a little whimsy, or a reminder that their voice matters.

Recently, my husband and I started I Am Magnet, a fun little business that turns personal photos into custom fridge magnets. It’s playful, nostalgic, and brings joy in a different way, which feels like a natural extension of what I try to do in my art. I’m excited about continuing to grow both sides of my creative life and seeing where this path takes me next.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting, I’d definitely make sure they stayed at The Village Dallas, partly because it’s beautiful and partly because that puts them within walking distance of me (convenient, right?). We’d start the mornings with easy walks through the neighborhood, catching up and enjoying the greenery. Maybe grab coffee and sit by the lake for a bit before the day kicks off.

For our first night, we’d have dinner at Kyo at The Drey. It’s got such a calm, cool vibe and the sushi is chef’s kiss. Perfect for a slow, stylish welcome dinner.

We’d absolutely spend a full afternoon in Bishop Arts District, shopping, people-watching, finding quirky little stores and beautiful spots to take photos. We’d stay until the evening so we can catch The Revelers Hall Band live. Their energy is electric and it always turns into an impromptu dance party on the street.

Other must-dos? Grabbing coffee and browsing books at Wild Detectives, one of my favorite cozy spots in Bishop Arts. For drinks, Paradiso is a great choice, with its cool vibe and excellent cocktails.

For a cozy night in, we’d hang out on my patio with snacks and wine, maybe even make magnets together (I mean, how could I not?). Dallas has a lot to offer, but with the right company, even the simple moments here feel extra special. I think I would finish the weekend with a dinner at Goldie’s or The Henry.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
While I didn’t grow up with a lot of encouragement around pursuing a creative path, I’ve been lucky to find a few key people and places that changed everything.

One person who really deserves a shoutout is Louie T. McClain II, the founder of Melanin Origins. He believed in my work early on and gave me the opportunity to step into the world of children’s books. That experience opened a door I didn’t even know was there and set me on a path that felt deeply meaningful and aligned with my voice as an illustrator.

I also have to thank my husband Neil. He’s been incredibly supportive, always in my corner, always encouraging me to take creative risks and value what I do. Having that kind of steady support makes such a difference.

And last but definitely not least, Gemmy Industries, where I go to work every day. It’s genuinely one of the most fun and creative environments I’ve ever been part of. Every day feels like Christmas or Halloween, and I love being surrounded by brilliant creative peers who inspire me constantly.

It hasn’t always been a straight or easy road, but the people and spaces I’ve found along the way have made all the difference.

Website: https://www.aduahernandez.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aduahc/

Image Credits
Pictures taken by Neil James