The Massif Central is a region in southern France, just above the coast. Here, the landscape alternates between rolling hills and dramatic mountain views, where the boundaries between villages are often marked by the large rivers that flow through the area. It’s the colors and scenery of the Massif Central that inspire Julien Arnal’s art.  

As an illustrator and 2D animator, Julien Arnal was born in this part of France, and his love for the places where he grew up can be seen in all his work. Over time, Arnal has especially honed his craft in watercolor, a technique that allows him to bring delicate settings to life, characterized by soft colors and gentle gradients.  

Adding the finishing touch to his creations are the small characters that inhabit the scenes he illustrates—characters we’d love to have in our lives, to join for a countryside picnic or watch the sunset from the rooftops of Paris.