I am a creative illustrator with a passion for storytelling through expressive, hand-crafted art. I specialize in traditional media including oil painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I enjoy bringing stories to life for children while also guiding young artists to develop their imagination and visual expression. With extensive experience in both freelance illustration and teaching, I have illustrated a published children's book and lead creative art lessons and workshops focused on visual narrative and personal expression. My work centers on expressive character design, whimsical storytelling, and nurturing artistic growth in diverse learners.

Claudia Finelle

I am a creative illustrator with a passion for storytelling through expressive, hand-crafted art. I specialize in traditional media including oil painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I enjoy bringing stories to life for children while also guiding young artists to develop their imagination and visual expression. With extensive experience in both freelance illustration and teaching, I have illustrated a published children's book and lead creative art lessons and workshops focused on visual narrative and personal expression. My work centers on expressive character design, whimsical storytelling, and nurturing artistic growth in diverse learners.

Available to hire

I am a creative illustrator with a passion for storytelling through expressive, hand-crafted art. I specialize in traditional media including oil painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I enjoy bringing stories to life for children while also guiding young artists to develop their imagination and visual expression.

With extensive experience in both freelance illustration and teaching, I have illustrated a published children’s book and lead creative art lessons and workshops focused on visual narrative and personal expression. My work centers on expressive character design, whimsical storytelling, and nurturing artistic growth in diverse learners.

See more

Language

English
Fluent
Spanish; Castilian
Advanced

Work Experience

Children’s Book Illustrator – Freelance
January 1, 2016 - Present
Illustrated engaging visuals for a published children’s book, emphasizing character, narrative flow, and emotional resonance. Delivered all artwork in traditional media, creating expressive, full-color illustrations.
Teaching Artist at Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex, NC
January 1, 2012 - Present
Design and lead creative art lessons for children (K–12), encouraging personal expression. Develop engaging curricula for art camps and community programs, often focused on storytelling and visual narrative.
Special Education Teacher Assistant at Legacy High School & P.S. 138, New York, NY
December 31, 2004 - August 28, 2025
Supported diverse learners in inclusive classrooms, adapting lessons to meet IEP goals.

Education

Coursework at Union Square Fine Arts Atelier, New York, NY
January 1, 1997 - December 31, 2001
Assistant Teacher at National Academy of Fine Arts, New York, NY
January 1, 1997 - December 31, 2001
Sculpture & Oil Painting at Art Students League of New York, New York, NY
January 1, 1993 - December 31, 1996
Courses in International Marketing at Baruch College, New York, NY
January 1, 1991 - December 31, 1992
80 credits in Business and Marketing at Queensborough Community College, Flushing, NY
January 11, 2030 - August 28, 2025

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services, Other