Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Bobonis.
Hi Jessica, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve loved creating for as long as I can remember. Drawing was always how I made sense of the world, and over time that curiosity grew into a passion for illustration and visual storytelling.
I went on to earn my BFA in Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design, where I also studied animation, character design, and drawing. After graduating, I spent years exploring different paths as an artist, from commissions and art fairs to building an online business. Every experience taught me something, but I kept coming back to the work that felt most meaningful: creating quiet, story-rich worlds that invite people to slow down and imagine.
That journey eventually led me to create Whimsy Lantern, a home for my illustrations, stories, and creative projects. It’s also where Whispers of the Sporebound began. What started as a simple idea grew into a world filled with Mushroom Folk, Moss Dogs, and an oracle deck centered around reflection, healing, and wonder.
Today, I’m continuing to build Whimsy Lantern one project at a time. Whether I’m illustrating a new card, writing guidebooks, or sharing the creative process online, my hope is always the same: to create art that helps people pause, reconnect with themselves, and find a little magic in the everyday.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like most creative careers, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road.
One of the biggest challenges has been learning that creating meaningful artwork and building a sustainable art business are two very different skill sets. I spent years developing my illustration skills, but learning how to market my work, reach the right audience, and grow a business has been an entirely different journey.
There have been moments of self-doubt, projects that didn’t go as planned, and plenty of trial and error. Every art fair, commission, product launch, and creative project has taught me something new, even when the outcome wasn’t what I had hoped for.
Through it all, I’ve tried to stay focused on creating work that feels genuine to me rather than chasing trends. That approach may take longer, but it’s helped shape Whimsy Lantern into a world that reflects who I am as both an artist and a storyteller.
I’ve learned that growth isn’t always dramatic. Sometimes it looks like improving one illustration, writing one better story, or taking one more step forward than you did yesterday. Looking back, those small moments have added up to something I’m really proud of.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an illustrator and storyteller, and the creator behind Whimsy Lantern, a world rooted in whimsy, wonder, and the stories tucked between the lines.
Recently, much of my work has centered around the Mushroom Folk and Moss Dogs of Whispers of the Sporebound. Through illustrations, guidebooks, journals, and storytelling, I’ve been building a world that invites people to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and discover beauty in everyday moments.
Many of the stories I create are inspired by my own experiences. As someone with dyslexia, I’ve often found that images communicate ideas in ways words sometimes can’t.Illustration became one of the ways I learned to tell stories and connect with people. That perspective has shaped the kinds of stories I want to tell. Rather than focusing on adversity alone, I try to approach those moments with curiosity. My hope is that by sharing those stories through my illustrations, others might find space to reflect on their own lives with a little more gentleness, curiosity, and compassion.
What I’m most proud of is Whispers of the Sporebound. It has grown from a simple idea into an interconnected world of illustrations, an oracle deck, a Field Guide, a PDF Companion Guidebook, journals, and stories that all work together to encourage moments of quiet reflection.
I think what sets my work apart is that I’m not simply creating individual illustrations. I’m creating experiences rooted in story. Whether someone connects with the Mushroom Folk, another illustration, or a future project, my hope is always the same: to encourage people to slow down, see the world with a little more curiosity than adversity, and remember that there is still quiet magic waiting to be discovered in everyday life.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I think the word networking can feel intimidating because it often sounds like you’re supposed to collect contacts or promote yourself. I’ve found the most meaningful professional relationships have grown much more naturally than that.
Some of the best advice I’ve received has come from simply being curious, asking thoughtful questions, and showing a genuine interest in other people’s work. Whether it’s another artist, a publisher, a fellow creative, or someone working behind the scenes, every conversation has been an opportunity to learn something new.
I also don’t believe you need just one mentor. Throughout my career, different people have taught me different things. One person might help you grow as an illustrator, another might teach you about business, while someone else encourages you to trust your own creative voice.
My advice would be to stay curious, be kind, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Creative communities are built through genuine relationships, not perfect introductions. Some of the most meaningful opportunities in my own journey have come from simply connecting with people who share a love for creating.
Some of the most meaningful opportunities in my journey have come from genuine curiosity, kindness, and a willingness to keep learning. I think creative communities grow best when we show up not just to share our work, but to encourage one another along the way.
Pricing:
- Fine Art Prints: Starting at $10
- Original Illustrations & Commissions: Contact for pricing
- Wholesale: Available through Faire
- Custom licensing & collaborations: Available upon inquiry
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jessicabobonis.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whimsy_lantern/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61591273035949
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhimsyLantern
- Other: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jessicabobonis/whispers-of-the-sporebound?ref=f1qvq1
