Jia Liu

Profile

Jia Liu studied graphic design and children’s picture book illustration at the China Central Academy of Fine Arts, and received her MFA in Illustration from the Maryland Institute College of Art. While studying at MICA, Jia worked as an art teacher for young children and discovered her passion for children’s books. Observing her students’ psychology and behavior inspired her to create stories that focus on the real problems children face in their daily lives. Most of her stories come from her teaching experiences, and aim to amuse and inspire kids, like they inspire her. She loves to bring playfulness and humor into her work, and is always on the lookout for a funny facial expression that she can use for her characters. When she isn’t busy illustrating, Jia loves to watch movies and go to farmer’s markets. Clients include Pearson, Cricket Magazine, and Penguin. Awards include Bank Street College’s Best Books of the Year, SCBWI Winter Conference Student Illustrator Scholarship, and MICA Community Engagement Grant for Children’s Activity.