Hi! I'm Raquel
I’m an illustrator and surface pattern designer creating playful, textured art rooted in honesty, nostalgia, and the beauty of the imperfect. My work celebrates the “wonky” lines where the artist’s hand is always visible — and it uplifts the stories and faces of people who don’t often see themselves represented in art.
Growing up queer, Hispanic, and a first-generation American shaped the way I see the world and why representation matters so deeply to me. One of my greatest joys is when someone looks at my art and says, “I see myself in this.”
My creative journey has been featured in Jen Hewett’s This Long Thread: Women of Color on Craft, Community, and Connection, and I’ve had the honor of teaching surface pattern design with the Surface Design Association and at QuiltCon with the Modern Quilt Guild.
I live in the Village of Malverne on Long Island, New York. I’m a member of the Malverne Chamber of Commerce and Advent Lutheran Church in New York City — a community that embodies welcome, justice, and grace.
Alongside my illustration work, I’m pursuing a Master of Divinity at United Lutheran Seminary. My hope is to help nurture communities where all people, especially children and families, experience inclusive peace, love, and joy.
ILLUSTRATION SERVICES
Children's Book Illustration
Editorial Illustration
Promotional Illustration
Surface Pattern Design
FUN FACT:
My shop, Maquina 37, is named after my 1937 Singer sewing machine. My mom calls my sewing machine "la máquina," which literally translates to "the machine." It's a reminder of my family's immigration story, which is my constant inspiration.
INTERVIEWS
Malverne Chamber of Commerce - Member Spotlight
Hewett, Jen. "This Long Thread: Women of Color on Craft, Community, and Connection," Roost Books, 2021.
I believe in
INCLUSION
Every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories of faith. Representation shapes belonging, and belonging shapes self-worth. My art and devotional resources intentionally uplift underrepresented children and families — especially within BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities — so that all feel seen, loved, and welcomed at God’s table.
RESPECT
Every person carries a story worth honoring. Whether I’m illustrating, writing, or creating a devotional, I listen deeply — to Scripture, to families, to pastors, and to kids themselves. Respect means slowing down, asking real questions, and making space for people to express what matters most to them.
HONESTY
I value transparent communication, gentle truth-telling, and authenticity. Doodles of Devotion is rooted in honest faith — faith that allows doubt, curiosity, and real-life complexity. I strive to build relationships with integrity, both in my art practice and in my ministry.
EMPOWERMENT
Creativity and faith belong in the hands of the people. I design resources that help children, families, and congregations participate, reflect, draw, question, and pray. Empowerment also means using my gifts to support organizations and communities working for justice, education, and spiritual growth — because joy multiplies when it’s shared.
PEACE & COMPASSION
Inspired by Jesus’ way of love, especially in the Gospel stories, I center gentleness over perfection, and curiosity over fear. Through art, reflection, and inclusive storytelling, I hope to nurture spaces where children and adults alike can practice kindness, empathy, and courage.