Rachel is a visual development artist and illustrator with experience leading digital storytelling across multidisciplinary teams. Recognized for work on award-winning investigative projects, translating complex narratives into immersive visual experiences through illustration, motion, and design. Skilled in environment creation, narrative composition, and cohesive visual layouts across digital and print platforms.…

Rachel Handley

Rachel is a visual development artist and illustrator with experience leading digital storytelling across multidisciplinary teams. Recognized for work on award-winning investigative projects, translating complex narratives into immersive visual experiences through illustration, motion, and design. Skilled in environment creation, narrative composition, and cohesive visual layouts across digital and print platforms.…

Available to hire

Rachel is a visual development artist and illustrator with experience leading digital storytelling across multidisciplinary teams. Recognized for work on
award-winning investigative projects, translating complex narratives into immersive visual experiences through illustration, motion, and design. Skilled in
environment creation, narrative composition, and cohesive visual layouts across digital and print platforms.

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Skills

Experience Level

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Illustrator & Visual Journalist at McClatchy Media
October 1, 2021 - June 30, 2025
Developed the visual presentation of digital news stories across 30+ newsrooms. Established the artistic direction for projects focusing on narrative-driven designs and ensuring visual consistency across all graphic assets. Collaborated with editors, writers, developers, and data teams to create cohesive visual storytelling on long-form investigative features. Served as the principal illustrator for award-winning content, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning work for the Miami Herald’s “House of Cards.”
Illustrator & Visual Designer at WLRN News
July 1, 2025 - November 30, 2025
Created editorial covers, data graphics, and podcast artwork for the investigative project “Killer Train.” Collaborated with editors, writers, and editorial graphics teams to visualize the events that led to Brightline’s fatalities.
Visual Designer at Polycentric Leadership
January 1, 2021 - October 1, 2021
Created logo and brand assets for a faith-centered non-profit. Designed their website using WordPress and managed the site.
Illustrator at Gianluca Padalina (Couples-themed storybook)
August 1, 2021 - Present
Storyboarded and painted 30 illustrations for a couples-themed storybook.
Brand Illustrator at Addiction Policy Forum
March 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
Brand illustrator for a non-profit group; contributed to their website visuals, policy guidebook, editorial covers, and spot illustrations.
Illustrator at Behold (Fish Coin Press) – Trading Cards
April 1, 2020 - June 30, 2020
Illustrated trading cards for the Behold series published by Fish Coin Press.
Storyboard Artist & Illustrator at To Cross an Ocean (Graphic Novel Project)
September 1, 2017 - May 31, 2018
Created storyboards for a full-length graphic novel, interpreting the script into a clear storyline and collaborating with a team of illustrators.

Education

BFA in Animation/Illustration at San Jose State University
January 1, 2013 - January 1, 2018

Qualifications

Pulitzer Prize Winner in Breaking News Reporting for Miami Herald’s coverage (e.g., 'House of Cards')
January 11, 2030 - January 6, 2026
Scripps Howard Award of Excellence in Local/Regional Investigative Reporting
January 11, 2030 - January 6, 2026
Webby Awards Winner for Best Individual Editorial Feature
January 11, 2030 - January 6, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Education, Professional Services, Software & Internet

Skills

Experience Level