Anna Cunha

By LatAm ARTE

Anna Cunha is an acclaimed Brazilian illustrator based in Belo Horizonte. She graduated in Fine Arts from the Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais and completed postgraduate studies in Illustration at EINA – Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. With a portfolio of over 30 illustrated books for both Brazilian and international publishers, her work is celebrated for its poetic and emotionally resonant style. Among her notable works is A Story About Afiya , written by Jamaican poet James Berry. This book was recognized as one of The New York Times’ 25 Best Children’s Books of 2020 and was nominated for the 2022 Kate Greenaway Medal. Cunha’s illustrations in this book have been praised for their warmth and wonder, effectively capturing the depth of the titular character’s imagination. Cunha’s artistic achievements have been acknowledged with several awards, including the AEILIJ Prize and the FNLIJ Prize in Brazil, as well as the Northern Lights Book Award in the United States. Her work has also received honorable mentions at the João-de-Barro Prize and has been shortlisted for the prestigious Jabuti Prize. Beyond A Story About Afiya , her illustration credits include titles such as Fly by Brittany J. Thurman, Anita and the Dragons by Hannah Carmona, and Indigo Dreaming by Dinah Johnson. Cunha’s illustrations are known for their rich textures and dreamlike quality, often created digitally with a focus on evoking emotion and narrative depth. In addition to her work in children’s literature, Cunha engages in various cultural projects in Brazil, including theater, music, and literature events. She also dedicates time to community projects and NGOs, reflecting her commitment to social causes. Her diverse experiences, including extensive travel through Central America, Asia, and Africa, have influenced her artistic perspective, enriching her illustrations with a global sensibility.