Daniel Liévano is a Colombian illustrator and graphic designer whose work sits at the crossroads of philosophy and visual art. With a formal background in both graphic design and philosophical studies, Liévano approaches illustration as a means to explore complex ideas about identity, memory, and the blurred lines between reality and imagination. This unique foundation allows him to craft images that go beyond mere representation—offering visual experiences that are thoughtful, poetic, and deeply evocative.
He is especially known for his striking series inspired by the works of Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami. Instead of illustrating literal scenes from the novels, Liévano dives deep into the emotional and surreal atmosphere that defines Murakami’s writing. His illustrations fragment bodies, transform faces into intricate mazes, and dissolve figures into geometric abstractions, creating dreamlike compositions that hover between reality and fantasy. These images capture the quiet melancholy, longing, and otherworldly mystery central to Murakami’s storytelling.
Liévano’s muted, nostalgic palettes of mauves, dusty blues, and warm ochres enhance the ethereal quality of his work. His compositions balance minimalism with rich symbolism, inviting viewers to slow down and immerse themselves in each piece’s layered meanings and emotional resonance.
