Razelle Calara

Arts Educator & Illustrator | MFA | Design Research, Visual Storytelling & Concept Development

I’m an educator and illustrator with a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Santo Tomas and over a decade of experience in visual storytelling and creative practice. Since 2018, I’ve taught at Ateneo de Manila University, where I also serve as Fine Arts Internship Coordinator.

My teaching spans design research, information design thesis, illustration, visual communication, and character design. What interests me most is the thinking behind creative work: asking useful questions, understanding audiences, exploring cultural context, and developing concepts with a clear purpose. I enjoy helping students turn their research and ideas into thoughtful creative projects.

Alongside teaching, my practice includes comics, book illustration, character design, and exhibiting artwork. My published work includes the graphic novel adaptation of 100 Tula Para Kay Stella and titles in the Jenna Jackson series. I’ve also delivered talks and workshops on storytelling, character development, and issues affecting creative practitioners.

I’m interested in opportunities in arts education, art and design research, museum research and educational programming, and illustration—particularly work that brings together inquiry, storytelling, and meaningful engagement with audiences.

Faculty, FA Internship Coordinator at Ateneo de Manila University (2018 – Present)

Creative Artist at Emerson Electric (2017 – 2018)

Senior Graphic Designer at The Picture Company (2016 – 2017)

Lead Visual Artist at Black Mango Comics (2013 – 2018)

Comic Artist at Komikult (2012 – 2016)

Intern Graphic Artist at Color Cure, Co. (2012 – 2012)

Master of Fine Arts – University of Santo Tomas (2017 – 2022)

Bachelor of Fine Arts and Design in Advertising – University of Santo Tomas (2011 – 2016)

Secondary Education – Immaculate Conception Cathedral School (2006 – 2011)

Primary Education – Immaculate Conception Cathedral School (2000 – 2006)