About Marita

I started reading very early, I was one of the Kindergarten students that read to others.  I loved reading as a child and still do as an adult.  That love was offset by a fascination of the pictures. I can remember trips to the library and just looking at the pictures.   You can still find me in the children section of a library or book store looking at the pictures.

    I decided at 12 years old that I was going to be an artist.  As we all know it takes many colors to create a painting, and it has taken many expereinces to create my story.  I worked in fine art galleries when I was younger, bulding a reputation and getting a great hands on education in all the basics of art.  After 12 - 15 years I retired from retail art.  I had painted all those years, but now felt ready to pursue an career as a fine artist...and I did and still do. 

Students @ Ryan Elementary

Along the way I became involved in a program teaching art as a professional artist.  What fun!  I still work for this program.  Through this venue I have been hired as an artist-in-residence for many schools

Book signing with Dianne de Las Casas

After teaching and working in schools I  became interested in illustrating children books.  My artwork has a wide appeal to children and I felt that this would be a great way to expand my horizons as an artist.  It did and I love it.  I met a fantastic professional storyteller, Dianne de Las Casas, and our friendship has led to several collaborations with many more to come!