A ream of white paper, an inkwell and nib pen became my companions early in life. My mother, who was an artist, encouraged my efforts and gave me the space to find my own way, and determine my own interests. Drawing lessons began in the 4th grade, and expanded from there.

My current work celebrates the time I spent with my mother making pies in the kitchen. Together we peeled and cored apples, rolled out pastry crusts, and watched them turn golden in the oven. Her food brought our family together for decades, and remains a memory I will always cherish.

 

Childhood trips to the Mayan ruins inspired by my Mexican grandmother, and a year abroad introduced me to an array of cultural art that deeply influenced me. An internship at Hjerl Hede in Denmark became my first introduction to the Neolithic practices of knapping flint, and canoe construction under German archaeologist Harm Paulsen. Years later, while living in Arizona, I was introduced to the history and culture of  the Southwest Native Americans through trips to the Tohono O'odham and Navajo reservations, Mesa Verde cliff dwellings, Canyon de Chelly, Wupatki, and other national treasures.  These experiences shaped my interest in making history tangible for the wider public through illustration. Check out my team's links on the cultural page.

 

My other great source of inspiration is nature. Hiking in the mountains, and slowing down to notice the structures and textures of plants gives me hope that life will always find a way to flourish. The interconnection of all life is a reminder that I am just a grain of sand in the universe, also fragile. Humanity must struggle with these existential perspectives especially today, to make our choices thoughtfully and with care.

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Thank you for visiting my website!

 

You can also find me on Instagram @ Miranda_illustrates.

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