I am Vanessa Castro, an artist, illustrator, and author with a physical disability, Cerebral Palsy with a speech impediment. So I use a power wheelchair and communication device. I grew up in San Mateo, California. I graduated from University of California,  Berkeley with a bachelor's degree in English and minor in Education. In 2006, I started my own art business, Ness Ness Va’s Art.

I've always loved drawing and painting with lots of bright colors and  great enthusiasm!!! The mediums I use are markers, pastels, and acrylic paint. I’ve written, illustrated, and self-published 4 children's books, "Gloria, The Gecko Attendant," "Rollerblading on Autism," “Finding The Spirit,” and my newest, “Max and Tansy’s Secret Hideaway.” All of my children's books are designed to educate kids about different disabilities.

I am very independent and determined. Once I put my mind to do something,  I always accomplish it, in spite however long it takes me.  It usually takes me 3-5 weeks to finish a painting, but I always get it done. 

I paint characters like Wonder Woman and other super heroes in wheelchairs and/or on crutches to teach children that even though a person may have a disability or something unique about them, everyone has their own super powers.

Besides my children’s books and original paintings, I make and sell prints, posters, cards, calendars, tote bags, t-shirts, and coffee mugs. I do lots of art festivals in the East Bay, mainly Alameda, Oakland, and Berkeley, where I sell my products. Hope to see you at one of the art fairs!!!!

I also do customed orders, so if you would like to have an unique piece from me, feel free to email me nessnessva@gmail.com.