A blue, spiky, star-like shape on a white background.

A yellow starburst with eight points on a black background.

Hi! I’m Cris

ARTIST, ILLUSTRATOR & SURFACE DESIGNER

I help brands turn ideas into distinctive artwork that feels cohesive, fits the brief, and moves from concept to production with ease.

Work with me

Illustration of multiple orange flowers with white centers and green leaves on a black background.

Trusted By

Watercolor illustration of a sleeping fox with closed eyes, curled up with a bushy tail.

brands, publishers and creative teams

Stylized handwritten text that reads 'Bonnie Christophe' in black on a transparent background.

and more!

let's talk

How I Can Help ♥

A colorful, vibrant painting of various coral and sea life, including different shapes and colors of coral, sea anemones, and a small fish.

A black greater than symbol (>) inside a white circle with a black border.

ready to license art

Looking for existing artwork with colour, character and story? License from my portfolio

view licensing portfolio

Colorful illustrated collage featuring a smiling woman with purple hair wearing a red hoodie, various framed artworks, a landscape with trees and a river, potted plants, and a watering can. Text includes personal details, quotes, and descriptions such as "Seeing art on my wall," "Watering my plants," "Walking by the river," and mentions of New Zealand and Auckland.

Black command prompt icon with a white background and a black circle border.

custom brand artwork

Need something custom? I'll work with you from brief to finished, print-ready artwork.

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Colorful watercolor illustration of a bird with vibrant feathers perched on top of three stacked books. The books are titled 'Collectors Anonymous,' 'Mon Garnet D'Art by Cris Pliego,' and a third partially visible red book. Surrounding the bird and books are various colorful flowers and green leaves, set against a textured light pink background.

Black greater than symbol inside a white circle

ORIGINAL ART & PRINTS

Own a piece. A curated selection of original paintings & art prints for colourful homes, thoughtful gifts and art-filled spaces.

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Cris Pliego

The CREATIVE MIND behind Cris Banana Studio

A woman sitting on a couch looking at a colorful scrapbook or photo album inside a cozy, decorated living room.

Blue background with a yellow banana graphic in the center.

I’m a Mexican-Kiwi illustrator and surface designer based in Christchurch, Aotearoa-New Zealand.

I collaborate with art directors who have strong ideas and high standards and need a creative partner they can trust to get the brief, communicate effectively, and deliver what’s needed on time.

I understand that hiring a new artist can feel risky. You shouldn’t have to chase updates or worry if the final work will fit your brand. My aim is to make the process smooth from start to finish, so you can focus on the big picture while I handle the artwork.

I care about building strong working relationships through trust, good communication, and great work. I love making the process feel easy, and the result feel right. I’m available for licensing, commissions and creative collaborations.

Let's make the world a little brighter! Shall we? ♥

get in touch

Open sketchbooks and watercolor paints on a table, displaying colorful artwork and illustrations.

Illustration of a woman with dark brown hair and rosy cheeks, wearing a mustard-colored jacket with floral embroidery over a red shirt, on a bright green background.

Yellow starburst shape with eight points on a black background.

Shop The Faves!

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Quick View

Floral, Art Print

Mexican Vase Floral Art Print

Floral, Art Print

NZD 54.00

This floral vase print is inspired by the traditional tiles of Puebla, Mexico. Creating it helps me stay connected to my Mexican roots through color, pattern, and painting. I hope this colorful still life brings warmth, personality, and a bit of joy to your space.

Each print is made as a high-quality giclée on archival matte paper. I sign every piece and package it with care so it arrives safely to you.

Details

Giclée print on archival matte paper
A4 size
210 x 297 mm
8 1/4 x 11 3/4 in
Signed print
Unframed
Designed and printed in New Zealand
Ships within 1 to 3 days

Need a different size? Feel free to email me: cris@crisbanana.com

© Artwork remains the copyright of Cristina Pliego and may not be reproduced in any way without the consent of the artist.

Thank you!

What they’re saying

“Cris' curiosity and attentiveness as a designer are incredible. Her skill as an illustrator is phenomenal. […] I'd recommend working with Cris to anyone and everyone.”

BARRY G.

“Cris is such talented designer. She is a joy to work with and kept me involved throughout the whole process. The finished products were even better than I had envisioned!”

RUTH KELLY