How Fatinha Ramos Channels ‘Visual Activism’ In Her Richly Layered Illustrations

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Fatinha Ramos channels ‘visual activism’ in her illustrations

“To me, being a visual activist means I only illustrate stories that resonate with me deeply, by giving voice to minorities or social situations that need to be addressed,” says Fatinha Ramos. “It is the only way I can truly connect with others.”

Based in Antwerp, the Portuguese artist and illustrator blends analog and digital techniques to create emotive compositions. Ramos collaborates with prominent clients, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Tate, and Scientific American. Her storytelling is evident through her distinctive visual language.

how fatinha ramos channels visual activism in her richly lay image 2 — an illustration by Fatinha Ramos of a woman crying with leaves falling in the background

Notable collaborations

Recent partnerships include the Anne Frank Museum and MoMA. MoMA commissioned Ramos to illustrate an essay about being compared to Frida Kahlo. Ramos was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease, leading to a childhood in hospitals. Art became her preferred pastime, providing an escape from clinical settings.

Over time, what began as a hobby turned into a career. Ramos worked as an art director in advertising and publishing for 12 years before establishing her independent practice. Her work often challenges stereotypical narratives regarding climate change, sexism, and racism, providing an antidote to these issues. For a broader perspective on visual storytelling’s role in nature conservation, you might explore Paul Nicklen’s photography that exalts nature.

“I want to move away from the narrative that turns artists with disabilities into symbols of resilience,” Ramos told MoMA. “Creativity does not happen despite limitations but through them. Art should broaden how we see the world—and that includes how we see bodies, too.”

how fatinha ramos channels visual activism in her richly lay image 3 — an illustration by Fatinha Ramos of herself and Frida Kahlo with their hearts and hands connected

Current focus and projects

Currently, Ramos limits her illustration clients to focus more on her fine art practice. This includes a series of anatomical glass sculptures inspired by brittle bone disease. Her work can be further explored on her website and Instagram. Meanwhile, creativity in design is being pushed further with innovations like unique coffee tools solving common problems, showing practical artistry in everyday objects.