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All Images are owned and copyrighted by Christina Hess.

© Christina Hess 2025

About

Christina is an illustrator known for blending historical and natural themes across a wide range of projects. Her portfolio includes everything from numismatic coin designs to illustrated cookbooks, rendered in media such as graphite, watercolor, oils, and digital.

Notable commissions include her work with the U.S. Mint, where she contributed to the 2020 Silver Dollar commemorating the 19th Amendment and the American Women Quarters Program. In addition she created the reverse quarter design honoring astronomer Dr. Vera Rubin in the American Women Quarter Program. Her work has received national recognition, including awards such as Best Historical Coin of the Year at the COTY Awards, and has been acknowledged by institutions like the Smithsonian.

Christina’s illustrations have been featured in prestigious exhibitions and publications including Society of Illustrators West, Spectrum Fantastic Art, ImagineFX, and 3x3 Magazine.

Her ongoing personal series, Animals From History, reimagines iconic historical figures as whimsical animal characters. With over 25 unique illustrations, the project has captured media attention from outlets such as ABC News, Juxtapoz Magazine, Mental Floss, and My Modern Met.

Beyond her professional practice, Christina serves as the Department Head of Illustration at Ringling College of Art and Design, where she finds constant inspiration in mentoring the next generation of artists.