John Ledda

John Ledda is an illustrator, graphic designer, and writer-in-training. He enjoys creating exciting, whimsical worlds full of expressive and precious characters. John enjoys illustrating all the moments, big and small, that kids experience as they learn and grow. He loves infusing his work with humor and heart, and strives to create compelling characters and stories that draw you in.

Though he has always been making art, he considered many other careers first including architect, marine biologist, and dolphin trainer. He eventually came back to art midway through his undergraduate and graduated in 2011 with a BA in Studio Art and minor in graphic design. After graduation John made the move to California to pursue his MFA in Illustration from the Academy of Art University, inspired by the children’s books that had influenced him as a kid. 

After a bit of an art hiatus John made the life changing decision to buy an iPad Pro and Apple Pencil. Working digitally reignited John’s creative spark, opening up a world of possibilities. He enjoys making work that borrows from the skills and knowledge he gained from his training in traditional media, combined with the digital techniques he’s picked up as a professional graphic designer. The challenge of creating digital work that still retains the charm of traditional techniques keeps the process fun and interesting. John’s debut picture book, Big Bear Was Not the Same (Joanna Rowland; Beaming Books) was illustrated entirely in Procreate.

John currently lives and works in the San Francisco Bay Area where he can often be found enjoying the beautiful weather, beaches, and forests. When he’s not chained to his iPad John enjoys cooking, reading, and hiking with his partner.

John Ledda is represented by Ana Crespo.