Meet Antonio Abelleyra | Graphic designer & illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Antonio Abelleyra and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Antonio, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I decided to start my own business, my primary motivation was to combine my love for design, music, and illustration. I was excited about creating items that reflect my personal style and interests, such as t-shirts, stickers, and posters with a street vibe. I saw a growing community that appreciates unique, artistically-driven merchandise, and felt inspired to fill that niche.
I began by sketching out ideas and discussing them with friends who share similar tastes. Their positive feedback encouraged me to dive deeper. I researched market trends and competitors to understand what was already out there and how I could offer something different. Crafting a business plan was crucial; it helped me outline my goals, target audience, and financial needs.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My nearly 20-year journey as a graphic designer has been a path of growth and learning. What sets me apart is my ability to adapt to different styles and client needs. I’m incredibly grateful for the support of friends and colleagues who have helped me improve and grow, both professionally and personally.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting the area, I’d definitely take them to enjoy the best we have nearby. We’d start the day with a comforting breakfast at our favorite café, where we could chat and plan the day ahead. Then, we might venture out for lunch at a cozy spot with a great coffee selection. In the afternoon, I’d invite them to enjoy a beer at one of our trusted bars, where we usually catch up and share our lives and projects. We have our favorite spots for different moods, so we’d likely switch locations depending on how we feel at the moment. The key is to spend quality time together and savor every moment to the fullest.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! There are a few people who deserve a huge shoutout on my journey. My friends have been my rock. They’re always there, with a word of encouragement or a joke to lift my spirits.
My parents are my greatest inspiration. Their constant support and unconditional love have been the driving force behind my achievements. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
And my daughter, my greatest motivation. Every step I take, every challenge I face, is to build a future that makes her proud. Her smile brightens even the darkest days.
Website: https://www.behance.net/antonio_abelleyra
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomastodas
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-abelleyra/
Image Credits
poster y diseño de playera para la banda cafe tacvba realizadas por hípermerch , posters para Genitallica, gran sur, portada de disco de los vikingos del norte y londec