Daniella Bester is a South African illustrator and visual artist whose interest in art began at an early age. She studied Graphic Design for three years before completing an Honours degree in Illustration. Her background in both disciplines has shaped her creative approach, allowing her to combine design and illustration throughout her career. Through her freelance business, Daniella Illustrations, she has worked on a variety of projects, including illustration commissions, logo design and other creative work.

Her personal practice is rooted in traditional mediums, particularly watercolour, watercolour pencils and fine liners. She is drawn to organic forms, intricate details and the freedom of creating unusual little creatures and imagined worlds. Rather than working on a large scale, she often prefers smaller, detailed compositions that invite closer observation. Her work is influenced by artists such as Piet Grobler, whose imaginative approach to illustration resonates with her own creative interests.

Over the years, Daniella’s style has gradually shifted away from vibrant colour towards a more monochromatic approach. She has developed a particular interest in black-and-white illustration, using line, texture and contrast to explore the expressive qualities of drawing. For her, art is primarily a form of self-expression and an opportunity to explore ideas through imagination and experimentation. Her creative process allows room for curiosity, spontaneity and the freedom to develop each piece naturally.