Britney Bartholomew is a digital artist and graphic designer whose creative practice thrives at the intersection of storytelling, character design, and color theory. Known by her digital art brand BBDesigns, and on Instagram as @bbesigns_, she has cultivated a vibrant visual language that celebrates Black women through anime-inspired pop art. Her distinctive mix of expressive illustration, stylized typography, and cultural authenticity has made her a dynamic presence in the digital art community.
A Love for Storytelling and Character Design
Storytelling is central to Bartholomew’s work. Whether designing original characters, creating illustrations for children’s books, or producing standalone digital portraits, she infuses each piece with narrative depth. Her characters are not just visually striking—they carry personalities, moods, and stories that unfold in their expressions, poses, and environments. This emphasis on narrative helps her art connect with viewers on both an emotional and cultural level.
Mastering Color Theory
A hallmark of BBDesigns is the artist’s skillful play with color. Bartholomew employs bold palettes that elevate her characters and settings, blending the emotional resonance of color theory with the playful exuberance of pop art. Vivid neons, saturated hues, and striking contrasts animate her work, creating compositions that feel both energetic and immersive. The result is artwork that is instantly recognizable and full of life.
Anime Meets Black Girl Magic
Bartholomew’s illustrations stand out for their unique fusion of anime aesthetics and Black girl magic. Her characters often feature the oversized, expressive eyes and dynamic gestures that define anime, paired with intricate hairstyles, radiant melanin tones, and fashion-forward styling that reflects the diversity of Black identity. In her universe, Black women appear as magical girls, futuristic heroines, or stylish everyday icons—each radiating confidence, individuality, and power.
This hybrid style not only showcases Bartholomew’s range as a designer but also challenges traditional representations within anime-inspired art by foregrounding Black culture and beauty. Through this, BBDesigns contributes to the growing movement for inclusivity and representation in global pop culture and digital illustration.
Children’s Books and Typography Innovation
Beyond digital portraits and character art, Bartholomew has also illustrated several children’s books, where her storytelling instincts shine through playful visuals that engage young audiences. Her work in this space bridges her anime-inspired style with accessible, vibrant narratives, opening imaginative worlds for children to explore.
Another distinctive aspect of her design practice is her use of stylized typography. Bartholomew often integrates lettering directly into her compositions, using type not only as text but as a visual design element. This ability to merge words and images adds another layer of personality to her work, transforming her pieces into complete, multidimensional experiences.
Carving Out a Space in the Digital Art Community
Through BBDesigns, Britney Bartholomew has carved out a creative niche that feels both fresh and culturally resonant. By blending the global appeal of anime with a deep commitment to representing Black women, she has built a brand that is vibrant, dynamic, and unapologetically authentic.
Her work is a testament to the power of digital art as a medium for visibility, storytelling, and innovation. For audiences who encounter her illustrations—whether on Instagram, in children’s books, or through her design collaborations—Britney Bartholomew’s art offers not only beauty but also a celebration of identity and imagination.
