About


My name is Maria Montes and I am a designer and artist passionate about illustration and letterforms. Originally from Catalonia, I moved to Australia in 2006, where I currently reside.

My practice is set by the principals of constant learning, sharing and educating about the creative process. My artworks are based on ideas, where the process becomes vital as it explains the design rationale behind each piece. Above all, I have a story to tell.

Nowadays, I split my time between Melbourne and Barcelona working on graphic design, custom lettering projects, illustration commissions, textile design and calligraphic personal development. I currently teach calligraphy workshops in Australia.

“The Melbourne-based designer and artist creates intricate, nostalgic and downright FUN lettering and illustrations out of her studio in Fitzroy, where she also runs workshops teaching others the art of writing.

Trained as a graphic designer, Maria Montes studied in Barcelona in 1996, where learning calligraphy was compulsory. After spending over a decade working in the field, she decided to re-explore letterforms, resulting in a postgraduate course in Advanced Typography, followed by a year-long stint and further study at Type@Cooper in New York City. Her journey ultimately ended in Australia, where she’s been living, working and loving over the last 13 years.

In 2014, the universe had plans for a career shake-up for Maria. ‘The contract I had designing textiles for major international fashion houses ended abruptly’. Maria made good use of her new-found freedom, and began practising calligraphy as a daily exercise. Soon realising others shared her passion for calligraphy, she developed a series of  workshops, held at her Fitzroy studio.

Working out of one of Melbourne’s most vibrant, creative areas, Maria finds inspiration in the community around her, and strength in the reciprocal support of other women. ‘I am surrounded by students and creatives who respect and support my practice,’ she says,  ‘Listening to more female voices in the industry means a lot to me; they encourage my work and help me to build confidence.’” – words by Sally Tabart from The Design Files.

PRICES & PAYMENT METHOD
All my prices are displayed in Australian Dollars (AUD$). All payments are redirected to PayPal’s site in order to complete checkout.

SHIPPING & DELIVERY
Because I operate from Melbourne and Barcelona, I might use Australia Post or Correos depending on the destination of the items. All my shipments are standard registered services. Please allow 3-10 days within Australia and and up to 21 days for the rest of destinations.


CUSTOM PRODUCTS
If you don’t find exactly what you are looking for, I am also available for commission work.

PORTFOLIO SITE
You can check all my body of work on my personal website.

E-NEWSLETTER
I am sending one email newsletter every two months, announcing my calligraphy workshops, community events, type related matter and other topics which may include creative mental health and fostering women in the industry. Subscribe here.