Beloved Basque Illustrator Amaia Arrazola Dies at 41, Leaving a Vibrant Legacy in Murals and Books
Gasteiz, Spain – Amaia Arrazola, a celebrated Basque illustrator known for her enchanting murals, evocative books inspired by Japanese culture, and dedication to children’s art education, has died at the age of 41. Her passing has sent shockwaves through the artistic and cultural communities in Spain and beyond, with tributes pouring in from bookstores, fellow artists, and admirers on social media.
arrazola’s work blossomed from illustrating personal travel journals to publishing critically acclaimed books including Things you will never forget about your Erasmus, co-authored with Raquel Piñeiro, Wabi-Sabi, totoro and me. Everything I discovered about Hayao Miyazaki’s movies, and Under a starry sky: magic, beauty and Japanese legends. Her editor at Lunwerg, Javier ortega, described her unique talent: “A classic in her hands will always be an Amaia classic,” adding, “she had the talent to turn everything she touched into creatures that bear her stamp, and thus create a new universe.”
Born and raised in Gasteiz, Arrazola remained deeply connected to her hometown, creating prominent murals such as “Los Astrónomos” at the trinquet and the poster for La Blanca 2024 – a commission considered a high honor for any Gasteiz illustrator. She also left her mark on bookstores across Spain, painting a mural of Sant Jordi at l’Atzavara in Madrid, and contributing to Rata Corner in Mallorca.
Arrazola’s passion for Japan, sparked by her Erasmus experience, became a central theme in her work. She pursued a residency in Matsudo, Japan, which directly inspired her book Wabi-Sabi. Her final Instagram post, reflecting on the completion of a mural, captured her characteristic blend of joy and melancholy: ”You finish the mural and everything is over. You say goodbye. A little sadness. The experience is ephemeral, but the people are real… What has happened here?”
She is survived by her daughter, for whom she hoped her books and murals would serve as a lasting connection. As Arrazola herself expressed, “It is a way for her to get to know me and discover her mother, because I am there.” Her art,and the love it inspired,will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come. Artist Javirroyo has dedicated a drawing to her, wishing her a good journey.
