Deanna First ’12

Deana First graduated from Kent State University in 2012 with a degree in Fashion Design. After working in the fashion industry for several years, First decided to take a leap of faith in 2016 and became a full-time beauty and fashion illustrator. Living in New York City, First uses pencil, marker, watercolor, and digital editing to create her fluid and chic illustrations. She takes inspiration from top models, as well as the everyday stylish woman. What sets First apart is her mastery in a range of mediums and art styles, from realistic to stylized. First has created drawings for brands like Hermès, L’Oréal, and Tiffany & Co. She is also known for her highly sought-after, live sketching at special events, where she is able to sketch a guest in only 5-7 minutes! During the pandemic, First shifted to include live sketching events via zoom. Whether through a screen or in-person, First always makes sure to capture each guest’s best features and leave them with an elegant, unforgettable drawing. In 2018, she traveled across the country for a series of live sketch events for Ralph Lauren X The Coveteur. In recent years, First has branched out from the beauty and fashion illustration to create drawings for book covers and custom commissions.  

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