Hi! I'm Marijanel...

 Marijanel, a wife, mom, and multi-talented creative force from BC, Canada, is passionate about nurturing creativity in others.  As the founder of Picture Book Creators, she mentors aspiring writers and illustrators in all aspects of picture book creation. 

Marijanel teaches online, guiding her students with the skills and confidence to pursue their artistic dreams. An accomplished author and illustrator, she creates books for children and shares her journey on the MJ and Missy May YouTube channel. 

Through her work, Marijanel inspires others to unlock their creative potential and step into their calling. 

Marijanel is not just a creator but also an author and illustrator whose storytelling talents are infused with messages of hope and transformation.  Her debut children's book, Wait, Darling, Wait, was released in September 2023, followed by A Busy Day in ABC Woods in November 2024. 

Since childhood, Marijanel has been crafting stories for readers of all ages. Her journey as a writer began in 1999 when she self-published her first book. Since then, she has continued to captivate audiences with heartfelt narratives through both her writing and illustrations.

Marijanel's illustration is a fusion of traditional and digital techniques, with a primary focus on digital art. Mixing watercolor with Procreate on the iPad, she breathes life into whimsical characters and imaginary landscapes.

Although Marijanel initially began on her artistic path through music, she seamlessly transitioned into visual arts, experimenting with photography, film, pottery, and sculpting before discovering her true passion in digital illustration.

Her artwork is a celebration of joy, aimed at eliciting smiles and fostering wholesome qualities in the world around her.