Meet Danielle Habert

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Danielle Habert. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Danielle , thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

For me, creativity stays alive by constantly weaving it into both my work and my everyday life. I think part of it comes from being curious. I like to notice small details, colors, or funny little moments that can spark an idea for a children’s book spread or an illustration. I also find that balancing different types of projects keeps things fresh. Some days I’m working on a detailed oil painting or an editorial piece, and other days I’m sketching playful characters in a children’s art style. Switching between those modes keeps me from getting stuck.
I’ve also learned that taking breaks is just as important as making art. Shabbat, spending time with friends, or even just a walk outside helps me reset and come back with new energy. Teaching kids art has also been inspiring. Seeing how freely they create reminds me to stay playful and open. All of those things together keep my creativity not just alive, but constantly growing.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’ve loved art for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I was always drawing on notebooks, scraps of paper, and even on school desks when I wasn’t supposed to. That curiosity and playfulness still guide how I approach illustration today. My work often blends storytelling and imagination, capturing warmth, curiosity, and connection, the same feelings that made me fall in love with art in the first place.
I recently graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology with a BFA in Illustration. Now I work primarily as a freelance illustrator creating commissioned portraits, editorial pieces, murals, and children’s books, and some of my work has been selected for art exhibitions. Alongside freelancing, I work part-time in packaging design. I also run my own brand where I paint on denim jackets and hoodies and teach art classes for kids. Teaching has been especially rewarding because kids inspire me with their curiosity, creativity, and openness, which often sparks new ideas for my own work.
Right now, I’m focused on publishing a children’s book that I wrote and illustrated, a project that combines my love of storytelling, character design, and imagination. What excites me most about illustration is how it allows me to tell stories and connect with people through both my personal projects and professional work.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Throughout my journey as an artist, three qualities have been especially important to me: curiosity, persistence, and storytelling. Curiosity drives me to constantly observe the world around me, noticing the way someone’s eyes crinkle when they smile, the colors in everyday objects, or the small interactions between people that often spark new ideas. I always carry a sketchbook with me to capture these moments through sketches, while my notes app holds written ideas and thoughts that sometimes turn into full illustrations. Persistence has helped me balance multiple roles, from freelance work to teaching and personal projects like my children’s book, while continuing to grow as an artist. Storytelling is at the heart of what I do. Paying attention to moments, emotions, and connections allows me to create illustrations that resonate with people and bring ideas to life.

For anyone starting out, I’d say keep your curiosity alive and never stop observing the world around you. Write down ideas, even small ones, and don’t be afraid to take on projects that challenge you. Growth happens in the process, and every experience will add something meaningful to your art.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

The people who have been most helpful in my journey are my family. My parents encouraged me to pursue what I love and supported me in making a career out of it. My aunt Shirley has also been a big influence, offering guidance, encouragement, and inspiration along the way.
My grandparents, who are Jewish immigrants from Egypt, have also played an important role in shaping who I am. Growing up with their stories, traditions, and cultural experiences gave me a strong sense of identity and inspired many of my illustrations and projects. From the way we celebrate holidays to the small everyday moments we shared, these experiences have provided a deep well of ideas and perspectives that continue to influence my work.
I’ve also been fortunate to have friends and professors who offered guidance, feedback, and encouragement throughout my journey. Having this support and these experiences has been invaluable in shaping my skills, mindset, and perspective as an artist.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Danielle Habert
Rina Cohen

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