Daniela Beracochea, an Advocate for Empathy and Female Empowerment

Daniela Beracochea is a professional illustrator and graphic artist based in Montevideo, Uruguay. Her work blends expressiveness, poetry, and strength, developed through a meticulous four-stage process that combines digital and analog techniques. With nearly two decades of experience in illustration, she is known for building meaningful connections with her clients and translating their ideas into visually striking creations infused with emotion and individuality.

Let’s find out a bit about Daniela, where she finds her inspiration, how her process works, and more:

What would you say is your best piece of work / collaboration to date, and why?

Fortunately, I've been part of many projects that I love. One that stands out is the book Mi ábaco y yo, which is very dear to me. It is a book about a boy with autism. With this project, I developed a new way of working that was conceptually deeper, rich with symbolism, and beautiful. I also love illustrating on ceramic and creating textile pieces, as they challenge me and push me to think differently.

Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration?

I believe inspiration isn't something you have to look for. Working in a creative and artistic field is like any other job in that you have to know yourself well — your rhythms, your needs, and your process — in order to do your best work. Working hard and having experiences that nurture your creativity is essential. Being curious, talking to people, having in-person connections, walking, dancing... everything can be used as material to create. But ultimately, you still have to put in the hours thinking and drawing for a good idea to emerge.

Is there anything you'd say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.

Yes, of course! Through my illustrations, I often explore themes like women's and children's rights, body diversity, motherhood and care, and human bonds — specifically, how we relate to one another in society. As illustrators, we have a voice and a tool to help people reflect on the world, our actions, and our beliefs.

What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you.

I consider myself a deeply empathetic person, which allows me to connect profoundly with my subjects. This translates into work that is highly emotive, layered with meaning, and full of intention.

If you have done paid commissions prior to joining the agency, what would you say is something that clients repeatedly come to you for (up to now)?

I believe clients return because I am highly dedicated, a good listener, and genuinely invested in each project. I focus on collaborating closely to create the best possible final piece — one that is not only effective but also beautiful.

How would you describe your style?

I would describe it as poetic and powerful. It's expressive, dynamic, and explorative.

Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you — something meaningful to you personally.

I envision a project that visualises the power of women by highlighting the value of our mothers and grandmothers and revealing the often invisible work of care.

Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?

I am always working on personal projects. My main objective for 2026 is to finally create my own books as a solo author. I have various book projects in mind; some of them already have a developed text or concept. All of them are special to me and explore different life experiences and human connections.

Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real life person, who would that be?

I would choose to illustrate the life of a powerful woman, as there are so many compelling stories of women who fought tirelessly to earn their place in the world. Their journeys are not only inspiring but also a powerful reminder that we can achieve anything we set our minds to. A few women whose lives I would love to illustrate include Delmira Agustini, an Uruguayan poet; Petrona Viera, an Uruguayan painter; and Maria Elena Walsh, an Argentine poet, singer, and activist — her music for children is very well known in this region.

If you’d like more info, please contact [email protected]

At illo agency, we pride ourselves in representing a collation of global illustrators, distinctly diverse in creativity and uniquely celebrated by like-minded clients across a range of commercial markets.