I’m an illustrator, children’s book author, and designer whose work celebrates everyday joys, the moments that connect us, and the strength of community. I’m the author and illustrator of Priya Dreams of Marigolds & Masala, which received the South Asia Book Award. I'm currently working on my third author-illustrated children’s book, Where Do Stories Live?, which will be published by Kokila/Penguin Young Readers in 2026. I’ve also had the pleasure of collaborating with clients such as the Simon & Schuster, Asian Art Museum, Cloud9 Fabrics, Yelp, Blue Q, and Compendium.
I love to mentally collect textures from nature, which I transform into patterns throughout my art. My background in graphic design instilled an attention to detail, an affinity for unexpected color combinations, and a love of the storytelling power of patterns. Making art helps me look inward, untangle feelings, and find joy through the process. I hope the experiences that I infuse in my art will result in connection, belonging, and delight for someone else.
When I’m not in the studio, I love painting with my nieces, reading cookbooks, and baking birthday cakes. Now back home in Minnesota after years spent in California, I enjoy hiking with my husband and sweet dog.
I never say no to ice cream.
Press
Mother Magazine Feature
The folks at Mother Magazine interviewed me about making books and art for their “The Bookshelf” feature. Photo by Gabriela Hasbun.
PBS: Let's Learn Feature
Priya Dreams of Marigolds & Masala was featured in a segment of PBS: Let's Learn where they do a read aloud and art project.
Story Time with Mr. Limata
I was a guest on Story Time with Mr. Limata where we read Priya Dreams of Marigolds & Masala, chatted about story and art making, and drew together! Photo by Gabriela Hasbun.