Hi, I’m Chelsea Ward, a creative and detail-oriented illustrator who specializes in watercolor, colored pencil, and pen-and-ink illustration. I love telling stories through visuals, collaborating closely with clients to bring ideas to life, and building cohesive brand visuals. I've developed everything from washi tape and gift bags to custom children's books and logos. With a background in art education and program coordination, I run a stationery brand, host international art retreats, and design thoughtful educational experiences for students of all ages. I’m passionate about art education, mentorship, and helping brands communicate their stories through engaging illustrations and design.…

Chelsea Ward

Hi, I’m Chelsea Ward, a creative and detail-oriented illustrator who specializes in watercolor, colored pencil, and pen-and-ink illustration. I love telling stories through visuals, collaborating closely with clients to bring ideas to life, and building cohesive brand visuals. I've developed everything from washi tape and gift bags to custom children's books and logos. With a background in art education and program coordination, I run a stationery brand, host international art retreats, and design thoughtful educational experiences for students of all ages. I’m passionate about art education, mentorship, and helping brands communicate their stories through engaging illustrations and design.…

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Chelsea Ward, a creative and detail-oriented illustrator who specializes in watercolor, colored pencil, and pen-and-ink illustration. I love telling stories through visuals, collaborating closely with clients to bring ideas to life, and building cohesive brand visuals. I’ve developed everything from washi tape and gift bags to custom children’s books and logos.

With a background in art education and program coordination, I run a stationery brand, host international art retreats, and design thoughtful educational experiences for students of all ages. I’m passionate about art education, mentorship, and helping brands communicate their stories through engaging illustrations and design.

See more

Work Experience

Art Educator & Program Coordinator at Arts Outreach
January 1, 2018 - October 17, 2025
Provided engaging art lessons to elementary and middle school students, focusing on creativity and skill development. Served as program coordinator overseeing scheduling, office management, and community outreach.
Art Retreat Host & Instructor at Wanderful Retreats
January 1, 2017 - Present
Organize and lead immersive art retreats focused on watercolor techniques and creative exploration. Manage retreat logistics, including accommodations, scheduling, transportation, and cultural experiences. Foster a collaborative and inspiring learning environment for artists of all levels. Develop program content, demonstrations, and hands-on activities to help participants build skills and confidence.
Resident Coordinator at Santa Chiara Study Abroad Center, Castiglion Fiorentino, Italy
January 1, 2012 - October 17, 2025
Resident Coordinator for a study abroad center, coordinating student housing, cultural programs, and local partnerships.
Stationery Brand Owner & Illustrator at Sketchy Notions
January 1, 2012 - Present
Founded and managed a stationery brand featuring original watercolor and colored pencil illustrations. Designed and produced a range of products including greeting cards, calendars, notebooks, note pads, stickers, washi tape, prints, gift bags, gift tags and coloring postcards. Created coordinating packaging and branding elements. Collaborated with clients on custom illustration projects, ensuring strong visual storytelling and consistent art direction. Oversaw business operations, including marketing, sales, manufacturing, and product development. Represented the brand at trade shows in San Francisco and New York, securing collaborations with HomeGoods, Modern Tribe, and Blue.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts at University of Texas at Austin
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2010
Graphic Design Certification at Pasadena City College
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2024

Qualifications

Bachelor of Fine Arts
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2010
Graphic Design Certification
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2024

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services