About Itoko
Itoko Maeno has illustrated more than twenty-five children's picture books with her charming watercolor characters. Four of her titles have won national awards, including the Benjamin Franklin Award for
Best Picture Book. Itoko enjoys the creative process of each project. "I love the way the images evolve," she explains. "As I do my research for each assignment, I often become part of that character. Sometimes they take on a life of their own and surprise me."
Itoko has a great love of nature and it shows in all her work. Having traveled extensively throughout the world, she brings an international flair and an awareness of cultural diversity to everything she does. Itoko's artwork, which she describes as "authentic, semi-realistic, and appealing to all ages," has illustrated magazines, guidebooks, buildings and a complete line of wedding products by Paper Posie.
Itoko regularly teaches programs in schools to share her love of art and nature with children. She also conducts workshops in art, creating children's books, caligraphy and Japanese culture.
Itoko's art has been exhibited nationwide. She lives in Santa Barbara, California where she enjoys teaching, reading, baking and growing flowers. She is a graduate of Tokyo's Tama Art University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Graphic Design.
Adult Classes and Workshops · Email Itoko