GINA MARIE RIVERA
Professional Artist | Illustrator | Author | Art Instructor | Lead Curator
Professional artist and illustrator with 4+ years of experience creating nature‑inspired, narrative artwork, commissioned pieces, and illustrated books. Skilled in children’s book illustration, visual storytelling, and fine art painting, with a parallel background in curation and arts education. Illustrator of two published books and an experienced instructor of workshops on children’s book creation and illustration. Adept at managing client commissions from concept to delivery, collaborating with galleries and arts organizations, and designing cohesive visual experiences. Open to freelance illustration, book projects, commissions, gallery collaborations, and teaching opportunities.
Software
Adobe
Figma
Procreate
Social Media
Hard Skills
Illustration (traditional + mixed media)
Painting (acrylic, oil, watercolor, ink)
Art Curation & Exhibition Design
Gallery Installation & Art Handling
Visual Storytelling & Concept Development
Soft Skills
Sketching, Character Design, Layout/Composition
Art Education & Workshop Facilitation
Client Communication & Creative Collaboration
Project Management & Deadline Management
2003-2009
BACHELOR OF ARTS
Georgia Southern
Cumming Art Center – Cumming, GA
2025 - Present
Lead Curator & Exhibiting Artist
Lead the planning, curation, and installation of rotating exhibitions featuring artists of varying styles, mediums, and experience levels.
Design shows as cohesive visual narratives, balancing color, theme, and skill level to create an engaging, accessible visitor experience.
Manage and coordinate a team of volunteers and artists to prepare and hang work, ensuring professional standards for presentation and safety.
Collaborate with artists on selection, sequencing, labeling, and promotion of their work within each exhibition.
Self-Employed
2024 - Present
Freelance Illustrator & Fine Artist
Create original illustrations and paintings inspired by forests, flora, fauna, and quiet, magical narratives.
Produce commissioned artwork for private clients, including custom nature scenes, personal symbolic pieces, and home décor art.
Develop concepts, sketches, color studies, and final artwork in close collaboration with clients to match their vision, budget, and timeline.
Maintain a consistent studio practice, producing cohesive series (e.g., forest‑themed works) for exhibition and sale.
Prepare artwork for print and reproduction, including high‑quality scanning/photography and file preparation as needed.
Manage all aspects of freelance practice: pricing, contracts, invoicing, communication, packaging, and shipping.