Hello there!

I’m Rhea (pronounced like “see ya!”). I am an Indian illustrator and visual artist, but above all, I consider myself a storyteller. I primarily work with books whether it’s through comics, character design, bookmaking or graphic design. I love playing with the format and structure of stories both visually and physically. I am hoping to use my skills to publish imaginative and fun narratives to share with the world!

I recently received my Masters of Fine Arts in Illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design. I’m a really curious person and my illustrations give me the outlet to research and read about any topic I want. Ever since I was young, I’ve been interested in comics and animated films which is what led me to making my own graphic novels, picture books and animations. Recently, I’ve been interested in merging comics with artist’s books. I’ve been playing with the physical form of a book and how its unique structures can reflect experimental narratives in comics.

Stories are important to me because they can bring together people and cultures and create new conversations. Apart from creating art, I use teaching as a way to meet other artists and build a community. My experience co-teaching a course at RISD allowed me to share my skills as well as learn from others. If you’re interested to know more about my class, you can read about it here.

I can have a conversation about pretty much anything, but especially love talking about the mysteries of the ocean, the cosmos and my love for dinosaurs. I will always point out a dog if I see one and will try my best to get a pet in. I can also never say no to a cookie. I am a huge movie nerd and I love reading (which is probably where my fascination with making books comes from).

For freelance inquires and literary projects, email rheapradeep01@gmail.com

Exhibitions and Fests

MoCCA Fest | 2025
Graduate Illustration Biennial Show “Common Ground” | 2025
RISD Graduate Thesis Show | 2026

Publications

Voices | RISD MFA Illustration Anthology 2026