About Carla

The Artist Behind Mini Bildli

Hello, I’m Carla.

I’m an artist and illustrator, and drawing has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Today, however, there is something I love even more than simply drawing: bringing this art directly to people and creating a special moment for every child through face painting.

I love seeing how a child looks at themselves in the mirror after being painted and transforms for a moment. Sometimes they become a superhero, an animal, a princess, or simply choose a colourful design they love. For me, these little moments are a very special part of my work.

From Drawing to Face Painting

I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where I studied 2D animation and spent many years developing my skills in drawing, character design, and human and animal anatomy.

My professional career began in the world of animation and video games, where I worked as a character designer for several years. Later, I also worked as an illustrator on various projects involving illustration, design and animation.

In 2015, I moved to Zurich. For a while, I worked as an illustrator for children’s books while learning German at the same time.

Here, I started my family. After the birth of our son, I began looking for a way to continue developing my artistic skills while also balancing my professional life better with our family life. That’s how I discovered the world of face painting and belly painting.

And it was love at first brushstroke. 🎨

I discovered that I could combine everything I love about drawing – colours, shapes, characters, composition and details – with something that brings me particular joy: working with children and making them feel truly special.

Since 2019, I have been working professionally as a face painter, and over time, face painting has become an increasingly important part of my life.

When Face Painting Overtook Illustration

For a long time, I thought my professional path would continue mainly in illustration. But face painting gave me something I had not experienced in the same way in my work as an illustrator: the opportunity to create something and immediately see the effect it has on the person in front of me.

When I illustrate, I often draw for people I will never meet. And it can be quite a solitary job. With face painting, on the other hand, I have the child right in front of me, I hear what they imagine, I can adapt the design as I paint, and I get to see that moment we face painters know so well: den Spiegelmoment.

Without a doubt, it is one of the most beautiful parts of our work.

I believe good face painting is a combination of art, technique and connecting with each individual child. It’s not just about creating a beautiful design, but also about listening, observing and making sure that every child feels comfortable and special during this little moment.

And perhaps that is exactly why face painting has overtaken illustration in my life: I still do what I love most – drawing, creating characters and playing with colours and shapes – but now I can share this art directly with other people.

A Career in Which I’m Constantly Growing

For me, face painting is not simply about being able to paint a face. Every design involves technique, practice, training and experience. And yes… I’m pretty nerdy about these things. 😄

That’s why I continuously invest in further training. In 2024, I completed my professional certification at the International Face Painting School (IFPS), where I now also work as a Junior Coach, supporting other artists in their learning journey.

Continuous learning and professional development are a natural part of my work. There is always something new to learn, improve and discover.

Photos by Patrick Besch 

What I Want to Leave Behind Through My Work

Every event is different, but one thing always remains the same for me: I always want to give my very best.

I like to prepare carefully, pay attention to the details and give every design the same level of care – whether I’m painting at a small children’s birthday party or at a large event with many participants.

And even though the paint disappears after a few hours, the moment remains: a photo, a story to tell, or simply a beautiful memory that brings a smile to your face.

For me, that is exactly what makes face painting so special.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about me and the story behind Mini Bildli.