John Picacio

John Picacio is an American artist who has spent more than two decades creating covers and illustrations for science fiction, fantasy and horror books. His work includes art for George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire as well as books by Rebecca Roanhorse, Michael Moorcock and many others, and he has worked on the Star Trek and X-Men franchises. He lives and works in San Antonio, Texas.

Picacio is also the creator of Loteria Grande, a contemporary reimagining of the traditional Mexican card game, and the founder of the Mexicanx Initiative, which has helped dozens of Mexican and Mexican American creators reach fantasy and science fiction audiences.

The Invisible Parade (2025), his first picture book, was made with author Leigh Bardugo. Set on Día de Muertos, it follows a girl named Cala who is grieving her grandfather and does not want to join her family's celebration. The book received a Pura Belpré honor for illustration in 2026 and was a Hugo Award finalist.