Wendy Born’s artistic talent was recognized at a young age. Her family moved often, and she found solace in the art rooms of each new school she attended. Wendy longed to move to New York, so it was no surprise when she attended Parsons School of Design to study illustration, the School of Visual Arts, and the Art Students League in New York City to study painting.

After graduating, Wendy found plentiful work in the garment industry, with her designs appearing on bathing suits, socks, raincoats, ugly Christmas sweaters—you name it. However, everything came to an abrupt halt when she was laid off on her twenty-fifth birthday. Realizing her heart was not in the garment industry, she set a new goal: to see her work printed on paper, not fabric. She pursued freelance illustration, and art directors appreciated her eye for detail. She specialized in destinations such as Thailand, West Africa, and ancient Tibet, as well as children’s books—experiences that inform her fine art today.

“I enjoy sharing my work and always carry a sketchbook. People are surprised and delighted when I gift them a quick, colorful sketch that captures their mood and likeness. Some even get teary.”

A series of moves in her adult life allowed Wendy to earn a bachelor's and a master's degree in art education from Montclair State University and Antioch University, New Hampshire. She now considers herself a veteran teacher and is delighted to maintain a studio practice in northern New Jersey. Much like her work, Wendy is a vibrant and energetic artist drawn to highlighting the unexpected moments of beauty in everyday life.