Meet the Artist

Mary Jill Lemieur was born in Detroit, Michigan. She began doodling and drawing tiny drawings at age two. She was influenced as a child by the miniatures and animal illustrations of Beatrix Potter, the whimsical art of Paul Klee and Marc Chagall, and the wild sixties colors of Peter Max. She was fascinated by the sculptures of Marshall M. Fredericks, found around the city. Moving to northern Michigan as a young teen, she was inspired by the wildlife and beauty of the area. She remembers a magical moment of discovery - drawing intricate detail with pen and ink!

M.J. studied drawing, painting, printmaking, photography and design at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, and received her art degree (majoring in graphic design). After more than a decade of challenging work as a graphic designer, she changed her focus to fine art and illustration. She is inspired by the landscapes, sunsets, town scenes and wildlife of northern Michigan. Her art is created with with transparent watercolors, oils, acrylics, pastels, egg tempera, pen and ink, ball point, graphite, silver point and digital painting. Her color palette and subjects vary greatly and her style ranges from loose and whimsical to stunningly realistic. 

M. J. specializes in custom pet portraits and custom artwork. In 2017 and 2018 she received the prestigious honor of Painter Feature Artist from Corel Corporation, in a world-wide digital painting competition. 

Mary Jill's artwork is in collections in the U.S.A., Canada, Europe and Australia. Her studio is located in northern Michigan, near Little Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan.

Illustration...let's collaborate!

I'll create an amazing illustration for your children's book which will bring your story to life! This book cover illustration was made with watercolor and a bit of pen and ink. I also work in mixed media, acrylic, pencil and digital media. Rough sketch ideas and finished sketches are provided for your approval before the final art phase is started. Prices will vary depending on the size and complexity of the illustration. 

I illustrated a wonderful book for children by author Gene B. Symmonds ... Pinky and the Green Bean Can Do Club.

Please feel free to contact me for your illustration needs...whether you are an author, a publisher or someone who wants something illustrated for an ad or special gift. I have a background in graphic design, and most of my work is custom work. My most important aim is to please the client. 

Your inspiration + my imagination = an unbeetable combination!