Hello! My name is Mary Quinlan. I’m an illustrator living in New York City.

I am happiest when illustrating stories about animals and nature, or when doodling in my sketchbook. I work primarily with ink, watercolor and gouache.

Born and raised in Santa Cruz, California, I spent much of my childhood exploring foggy beaches and redwood forests. My love of nature permeates into all of the work I make. I received my bachelor’s degree in History from the University of California Los Angeles in 2021. Shortly after, I moved to New York City, where I attended the School of Visual Arts to earn my master’s degree.

Awards:

The Paula Rhodes Memorial Award for MFA Illustration as Visual Essay, 2025

SVA Alumni Scholarship Award 2025, for Bonny Sets Sail

Education:

The School of Visual Arts, MFA Illustration as Visual Essay

University of California Los Angeles, BA in History