Maheswari Janarthanan is an artist, illustrator, and designer whose work is deeply inspired by nature, folk art, people, and the quiet beauty of everyday life. A self-taught illustrator, she has worked with clients around the world, creating vibrant, story-led work that blends the real with the imagined and invites a sense of wonder and whimsy.
Alongside design, she explores a range of creative mediums, including printmaking, ceramics, and textiles.
When she isn’t working on a project, she is often experimenting with new materials and techniques, allowing curiosity and play to guide her creative process.
Her interest in visual storytelling led her to pursue a Master of Arts in Graphic Design at the Maryland Institute College of Art, where she expanded her practice across branding, typography, and publication design.
Today, her work spans illustration, design, and artistic experimentation, with each offering a different way to explore ideas and tell stories.
She is represented by Courtney Donovan at Writers House for picture books and other book-related projects.
Select Clients: The Jungalow by Justina Blakeney • LUSH • Meanwhile Brewing Co • Love Tea • Carolina K Diaspora Co • Creative Mornings • Mijita Wine Co • Santa Clara Magazine • Speaking Tiger Books
Awards, Features, Press & Publications:
IllustrationX, 2024
Communication Arts 2024, Illustration - Finalist
Love Tea, 2023
MICA Graduate Merit Scholarship, 2023
Noun Project, 2022 (The List, Top Illustrators and designers of 2022)
Sunset Magazine, 2022
The Punky Brewster Revival, 2021
Jungalow: Decorate Wild, 2021
Platform Magazine, 2021
Studio DIY, 2021
The Gallyry , 2021
Creative Mornings, 2020
Artistic Moods, 2018
Rangdecor, 2014
Buzzfeed, 2013 & 2014
100% Zine, 2013
Kyoorius, 2013
The Hindu, 2013
The New Indian Express, 2012
Midday, 2011
Pool Magazine, 2011
Jade Magazine
Femina Magazine
Masala Chai
Of Indian Origin
Artnlight
Pretty Paper Things
© 2026 by Maheswari Janarthanan