Creating digital art has always been a passion of mine, a way to bring beloved characters to life in my unique style. This time, I decided to enter the world of "Dora and Friends: Into the City". And create a fan art piece of Alana Cortes, a character whose warmth, athleticism, and kindness have always resonated with me. As I worked on this piece, I reflected on what makes Alana such a remarkable character. She’s not just another animated figure—she’s a vibrant personality who embodies confidence, compassion, and an unyielding spirit.
Bringing Alana to life on my digital canvas was a meticulous yet thrilling process. I started with her defining features—her golden-blonde hair, which I carefully shaped into playful pigtails, secured with small red elastics. Each strand of hair had to flow naturally, reflecting the energetic movement she always seemed to have. I made sure to capture the highlights, giving her hair a soft glow that made it seem as if sunlight was bouncing off it. Bringing Alana to life was a rewarding experience that allowed me to showcase her vibrant personality through intricate details and thoughtful design choices.
Next came her striking green eyes—perhaps one of her most captivating features. Alana's eyes aren’t just a shade of green; they hold a depth that suggests curiosity, kindness, and an adventurous spirit. I wanted them to sparkle with life, so I added light reflections that gave them a lively, almost animated feel. Her fair skin needed just the right balance of warmth and softness, with subtle blush tones to give her a natural, youthful vibrancy.
Her outfit was another crucial aspect of the piece. She wears a light purple undershirt, which is barely visible beneath a stylish green hooded top. The green fabric, a shade reminiscent of fresh spring leaves, features a slight puff at the sleeves and two delicate violet flower decorations near her left shoulder—small but significant details that add personality to her attire. I wanted her outfit to reflect her sporty, carefree nature, so I made sure the fabric looked soft yet durable, ready for any adventure.
For her lower half, I depicted her in sleek black leggings that accentuated her athletic frame, providing comfort and flexibility. Her footwear—a blend of lavender and light purple flats—added a touch of casual charm, perfect for a character who is always on the move. But a static pose wouldn’t suit Alana. She’s full of energy, always in motion, always ready for the next exciting thing. So I portrayed her mid-stride, as if she were dashing through a park, perhaps chasing after a soccer ball or hurrying to greet a friend. Her expression is bright, her wide smile exuding joy, confidence, and a welcoming aura.
Alana isn’t just a soccer star—though that is a big part of who she is. She has a natural talent for sports, a competitive yet fair spirit that makes her a beloved teammate and a great leader. As the coach of a children’s soccer team, she brings out the best in young players, teaching them not just the rules of the game but the values of teamwork and perseverance. Alana's passion for soccer is evident in her dedication to both playing and coaching, inspiring those around her to strive for excellence on and off the field.
Beyond her love for sports, Alana is also a deeply compassionate person. She spends much of her free time at a local animal adoption centre, tending to animals in need. Whether it’s feeding stray puppies, comforting nervous kittens, or helping to find homes for abandoned pets, Alana’s heart is as big as her ambition. I imagine her being the type to go out of her way to rescue an injured bird or spend hours caring for a neglected dog, her kindness knowing no bounds.
However, one of her most fascinating traits, which often goes unnoticed, is her passion for gourmet cooking. Many people see her as just the sporty tomboy, but Alana is also an aspiring chef with a love for unique and exotic dishes. From ancient recipes like milk soup to Mediterranean delights such as Greek-style beef skewers, she enjoys experimenting with flavours from around the world. An of course, she has a sweet tooth for decadent desserts like Viennese chocolate cake.
This hidden talent adds an extra layer of depth to her character. She’s not just about physical strength and agility—she’s also creative in the kitchen, using food as another way to bring people together. I like to imagine her preparing a meal for her friends after a long soccer game, excitedly introducing them to a dish they’ve never tried before. Her passion for cooking not only showcases her culinary skills but also highlights her nurturing and hospitable nature. It's a side of her that adds warmth and richness to her already dynamic personality.
Alana, full of life and enthusiasm, is in motion. She dashes forward, her arms stretched slightly, her face glowing with excitement. Maybe she’s racing towards a friend, eager to share some good news. Maybe she’s spotted a stray puppy wandering nearby and is hurrying to help. Or perhaps she’s simply lost in the joy of the moment, feeling the wind against her face, her heart pounding with the thrill of freedom. Whatever the reason, the energy in the piece is undeniable. Alana is not the type to stand still for long—she is movement, she is momentum, and she is the embodiment of boundless joy.
As I finished the final touches on my digital painting, I took a step back and admired my work. There she was—Alana Cortes, in all her vibrant glory. Every detail, from the strands of her golden hair to the gleam in her green eyes, came together to form a piece that truly captured her spirit. This artwork was more than just a tribute to a character from a beloved animated show. It was a celebration of everything she represents—kindness, strength, resilience, and a heart full of adventure.
Creating this piece reminded me why I love digital art so much. It’s not just about drawing characters; it’s about breathing life into them, giving them a story, a world to exist in. And through that process, I find myself connecting with them in a way that goes beyond the screen. Alana, with her endless optimism and unwavering determination, is a character that inspires. Whether on the soccer field, in the kitchen, or simply being a good friend, she reminds us that passion and kindness can coexist. And that, no matter where life takes us, there is always joy to be found in the journey.