Ruth Villa

Aspiring Children’s Book Illustrator| Assistant Intern @ Nina Mata Illustrations | Illustration and Character Design| Social Media Fashion Creator

New York City Metropolitan Area

About

Ruth (Ruthy) Villa is a multifaceted Afro-Latina creative in the illustration and fashion social media industry. With a deep love for the whimsical and my passion for history has always boosted my career as an illustrator. Weaving culture with fantastical elements I’ve always strived to create stories that provoked the allure of representation. with experience in providing part of my professional expertise as an illustrator assistant to my mentor, Niña Mata, In her children’s book projects. I’ve gotten to see first hand the process it takes to make an impact. As a Social Media content creator I have been able to forge a ever growing community of 14,000 followers across social platforms (Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest). With what started out as a passion hobby it grew into solid partnerships with leading brands like CeraVe, T3, Clinique, BEARPAW, JessaKae, and so much more! All the while breaking down fashion and beauty standards by providing a safe space for Plus-Size women. Montclair State University provided a strong foundation in Animation and Illustration, with progress in culminating with a BFA degree. My work reflects a commitment to cultural education and empowerment, with aspirations to shape narratives as a children's illustrator and author. Passionate about using art to bridge cultural divides, I aim to inspire inclusivity through storytelling and visual creativity.

Experience

  • Teaching Assistant at Tutor Time Childcare
    Feb 2026 - Present · 6 mos

  • Freelance Illustrator at Self-employed
    Jan 2026 - Present · 7 mos

    As a freelance illustrator I partner with aspiring authors to bring their ideas to life. offering services such as character design, comics, and illustrations I also am an event illustrator offering my live doodling services for weddings!

  • Brand Ambassador at BEARPAW
    Sep 2025 - Dec 2025 · 4 mos

    As a BEARPAW campus ambassador I’ve been given the initiative of being the brands representative at my local campus. Through an 8 week content driven program in collaboration with BEARPAW I host campus tabling events, giveaways, and share brand awareness through content creation Showcasing BEARPAW’S iconic shoe selection.

  • Study Abroad (IAI) Social media Student Assistant at Montclair State University
    Feb 2025 - Dec 2025 · 11 mos

    As a student assistant for the office of International Academic Initiatives at Montclair State Im in charge of helping any students with their interests in study abroad, organize applications & emails, setup and complete tabling events, and help plan content strategy for social media presence

  • Illustrator at The Montclarion
    Sep 2021 - Dec 2025 · 4 yrs 4 mos