Meet Haydee Yanez | Designer & Illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Haydee Yanez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Haydee, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
MexiconsArt actually started as my college thesis when I was studying Graphic Design in México back in 2001. It began as a simple coloring book inspired by nostalgic Mexican pop culture, created for kindergartners and rooted in my admiration for strong, unique Mexican icons.

When I moved to the U.S. in 2006, I really started to miss my culture—the colors, the humor, the icons, everything. That homesickness pushed me to bring the project back to life, this time not just as a school assignment, but as a way to reconnect with my roots and find my community.

Over time, it naturally grew into more than just a coloring book. I began creating paper goods, accessories, and apparel—all inspired by my love for México and the nostalgia we share. What started as a thesis became a way to celebrate culture and stay connected to home.

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 art is really a love letter to my culture. I illustrate Mexican icons who shaped me growing up — from Frida Kahlo to Juan Gabriel — people who carry stories, emotion, and history. They’re not just famous figures to me; they’re part of my memories, my upbringing, and my identity.

What I think sets me apart is that my work isn’t just nostalgic — it’s nostalgic with intention. Every piece comes with research behind it. In my coloring books, for example, each illustration is paired with facts or a glossary. I spend a lot of time making sure what I create is accurate and meaningful. Nothing is random, and nothing is trend-based. If I draw someone, it’s because they matter.

Some of my biggest supporters are actually teachers, academics, and even grandfathers — people who are looking for history and depth. That means so much to me. What I’m most proud of is hearing that families use my books together — grandparents sharing stories, parents explaining memories, kids asking questions. That multigenerational connection is everything.

Getting here definitely hasn’t been easy. It’s been a long road with pauses and re-starts, moments of doubt and moments of confidence. There were times I wondered if my work was “too niche” or not trendy enough. But what I’ve learned is that you don’t need everyone — you just need the right people. The ones who align with your values will find you and stay with you.

I’ve learned to keep going, even when it’s slow. To trust my taste. To be open to adapting and starting over when needed. Persistence has been my biggest tool.

At the end of the day, I want people to know that my brand is about honoring culture, preserving stories, and creating something that feels like home. If my work makes someone feel proud of where they come from, or sparks a conversation at the table, then I’ve done what I set out to do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Funny enough, my niece and nephew were just here visiting from México, so I basically just lived this week.

First stop? Barrio Logan. I always take people to Chicano Park because you feel the history there. The murals, the colors, the stories — it’s powerful. Then we’d stop by the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center and make sure to support the local businesses around the neighborhood. It’s important to me that when friends visit, they experience the real community.

Of course, Balboa Park is a must. I always say it’s our Central Park. We’d wander, maybe pop into a museum, grab a coffee, sit in the sun and just talk. It’s one of those places that never gets old.

I’m also a big bookstore person, so I’d drag them into at least one independent bookstore — probably more than one if I’m being honest. And we have to hit a farmers market, either in Hillcrest or Little Italy. I love walking around with a coffee, buying flowers I don’t need, sampling everything.

For food? Honestly… my house. I love cooking for people. That’s my love language. But if we’re going out, I’m such a sucker for Quixote. My little gothic heart just feels so happy there — the vibe, the mood, the drama of it all.

We’d mix in beach sunsets, maybe a random art show, good music somewhere unexpected, slow mornings with cafecito. For me, the best week isn’t about doing the most — it’s about feeling connected. Good food, culture, art, community… and lots of laughter.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am without so many people who lifted me up along the way. My friends and chosen family have shaped me with their constant encouragement and love, but if I think about where it all started, I have to give a huge shoutout to my abuelo. He was such a soft, gentle soul who always nurtured my creative side — from exposing me to art, films, and books as a kid to showing me what curiosity and care look like in everyday life. That warmth and inspiration has stayed with me forever.

Once I moved to the U.S., I immediately started seeking out community — spaces where I felt seen, supported, and creatively alive. Places like The Center in Hillcrest, MANA de San Diego, Latina Giving Circle, San Diego Made and the amazing artists in Barrio Logan have all played an important role in my journey.

And I have to shout out some incredible communities in the Los Angeles area too — totally worth the trip if you’re looking for connection, creativity, and culture. Places like LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes celebrate Latinx history, art, and community through programs and exhibitions that feel so uplifting and enriching. Plaza de la Raza is another beautiful multicultural arts hub supporting artists and families. Molaa has a legendary history of supporting Chicano and Latino artists with exhibitions and community events. There are so many more creative spaces — from cultural centers to artist collectives — that make LA feel like a living, breathing art home.

All of these people and places — from my abuelo to friends, chosen family, and community organizations near and far — have helped shape me, and I’m grateful for each one of them.

Website: https://mexiconsart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mexiconsart/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haydeeyanez/

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mexiconsart

Image Credits
letsfrolictogether_makersarcade