_edited.png)
MEET THE ARTIST
Hi, there! I’m Sandra, an illustrator based in Houston, TX, where I live with my wonderful husband and our three energetic boys. Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire), I’ve had the incredible experience of living in five countries across three continents, and I’m fluent in seven languages. I may have to learn three more so I can round it up to ten (:D). My multicultural background inspires a lot of my work since I love sneaking in my family, travel, and heritage into the pieces I create. (My mom is featured, A LOT!)
​
Although I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Illustration and Graphic Design, my true passion lies in traditional art. There's nothing like the feel of paper or a paintbrush in your hand. My favorite way to create is through what I like to call “sketch painting”— sitting down with a watercolor sketchbook sketching all the ideas I have about a theme, and letting the brush lead me to capture moments that tell small stories or evoke a sense of nostalgia. Classic ones are "Caught in the Rain" and "Snowball Fight" (below).
​
My art business came to life in 2017, after rediscovering my love for creating during a challenging time. After my second son was born, I struggled with postpartum depression and turned to art to help heal. Bullet journaling became my creative outlet, and as I shared my original spreads online, a new chapter of my life began to unfold.
​
My dream is for my art to find its way into homes, sparking joy and connection, one piece at a time. Someday, I hope it will take my family on actual trips, and new adventures, giving me fresh inspiration to continue creating and sharing these stories. I mean, wouldn't it be the best business trip to go on?
"Caught In The Rain"
"Snow Ball Fight"
WHAT IS KAMUANYA?
(Kah-moo-ah-nee-ya)
Kamuanya is my middle name and according to my uncle, it means "great woman; beautiful princess; one who doesn't do any tasks like other women do; one who doesn't go to the fields, nor to the river to draw water, nor any other task. She is served by others".
​
I was named after my paternal grandmother who passed away when I was a teenager. I remember thinking even then that I wanted to commemorate her in some way when I got older.
I wanted to create something that would bear her name, and that my dad could be proud of. So I decided then that when I finally made it as an artist, I would name my business after her, and I have held onto the name Kamuanya Designs ever since!