My name is Libby VanderPloeg, and I’m an artist and illustrator based in Michigan. Growing up, I was surrounded by books and stories, as my mom was a storyteller and children’s librarian, and so my creativity blossomed. After studying fine art at University of Illinois at Chicago and working as a graphic designer, art director, and even a cheese monger in Brooklyn, I decided to fully embrace my lifelong love of drawing through illustration. I love creating quirky, sweet, animated gifs that celebrate community and inclusivity, playing with pattern, and also making colorful, detailed maps. When I’m not drawing, I love to travel, go for hikes with my sweet dog, Tucker, and revel in the natural world.