Cova Sandes, children's book illustrator based in Madrid

Hello, I’m Cova

Children’s book illustrator. Madrid.

I make whimsical, inclusive picture books and editorial illustrations from a small studio in Madrid — quiet stories about ordinary moments, drawn with warmth, color, and characters from every kind of family. I’m currently open for picture book illustration, editorial commissions, and custom illustrated maps, and actively seeking representation.

How I got here

I came to children’s illustration the long way around. I trained as an architect, worked in BIM design, and spent my evenings drawing the things I really wanted to be drawing. After my two children were born, I finally gave myself permission to follow my heart — and I haven’t looked back. Architecture taught me how to build a world with intention, structure, and discipline. Motherhood taught me how to be brave, and helped me lose and find myself again. Both show up in everything I draw. Children’s illustration is where I always belonged — and I’m so glad I found my way back.

Selected clients & projects

Hungry Tomato — 5 children’s book covers

Google — 2 custom event maps

Ayuntamiento de Oviedo — Christmas illustration campaign, 2023

Amadeus International School Vienna — campus map illustration

Dog Friendly Bologna — Illustrated dog-friendly travel guide

They Draw and Travel — published Madrid neighborhood map

In the press / Find more here:

La Nueva España — feature interview, December 2023 → Read the article

Amadeus International School Vienna — illustrated campus map → See the map

Illustrators for Hire memberSee more here

Let’s make something together

Currently open for new projects

Picture books, editorial briefs, custom maps, or something I haven’t drawn yet — I’d love to hear about it. I take on a small number of commissions each year so we can give every project the time it deserves.