Keven Mallqui

Biography

Keven Mallqui is a concept artist, storyboard keyframe artist, and character designer specializing in narrative-driven work with cinematic lighting. Working across mixed media—including graphite, acrylic, and digital—he brings stories to life with a focus on mood, atmosphere, and visual storytelling. A published cover artist for major brands such as Skybound and Image Comics, Keven also teaches visual development at the college level, guiding the next generation of artists.
Originally trained as an oil painter, a college cinematography class transformed his approach to art. Inspired by the advice that “lighting is a character in every story,” he emphasizes the use of light and shadow to define emotion, narrative, and space in every piece. His work balances technical skill with storytelling, creating immersive worlds and compelling characters that resonate with viewers.

Research

I specialize in visual development and world-building concept art. My process centers on building immersive compositions through dynamic lighting and thoughtful detail. By tightening brushwork around key focal points, I aim to create balance and clarity within each scene while emphasizing mood and storytelling.