Surreal Ecosystems: Bold Illustrations by Mary Maka

Lion-based artist Mary Maka is back on the grid with her vibrant, surreal universes. If you’ve come across her pieces before, you’ll know her style right away, which combines bold color palettes, soft gradients and the imaginative characters that seem to exist in their own parallel ecosystems.

Mary’s path as an artist began early and took shape through formal studies in design, painting and bookmaking. Over time, she combined her love of graphics and printing techniques with illustration, building a style that feels both contemporary and timeless. Since shifting her focus in 2019, she has collaborated with brands like Google, Adobe, HP and Kiehl’s, as well as publications including The Washington Post and New Scientist.

Nature and storytelling are still a key part of her illustration practice, and in recent years, she has also expanded into animation and directing, most notably with her ongoing Endless Forest project, which has been exhibited internationally.

You can explore more of Mary Maka’s imaginative work on her website, Instagram and Behance.

More illustrations via Instagram