Welcome to my studio!
I’m Yumiko Kitazono, a children’s book illustrator (sometimes a storyteller) from Japan, living in Florida. 😊
In my newsletter, you may find:
A peek into my sketches, comics, and projects
Children’s book recommendations
Travel journal with lots of food
Occasional shop updates and coupons
A little bit about me
Artist, Teacher, Rockstar - In my 6th grade yearbook, I wrote I wanted to be an artist, teacher, and rockstar when I grew up. I wasn’t cool enough to be a rockstar but I have become a cool artist and teacher. I grew up surrounded by children’s books. They were my oasis and I could get lost for hours in my fantastical world. I was also into manga as a teen and enjoyed creating characters and stories. I eventually studied Illustration at the Tokyo Design School, where I first dreamed of illustrating children’s books.
Beauty from Ashes - After raising and homeschooling my kids for a few decades, I started creating art again in 2017. I was going through a divorce and found comfort and joy through art. God, my family, and my friends brought me through this difficult time. As I started a new chapter, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming an artist. In 2019, I launched my small art business, Studio Yuming. Now, my focus has shifted to creating endearing children’s books that bring joy to young readers.
Perpetual Class Taking - The last 5 years, I’ve participated in numerous courses, workshops, and conferences focused on children’s book illustration. One of my favorites was the Illustrating Children’s Books course by Make Art That Sells. It was an intense and mind-blowing 5 weeks that helped me push towards my goal. Being a part of a positive creative community was so wonderful. Since I’m pursuing my dream at an older age, I feel like I have to study harder and practice more to catch up. I’ve enjoyed every bit of learning and tried to improve my skills and gain knowledge of the publishing world.
Some of my favorite things
I love early morning pickleball, healthy smoothies for breakfast, playing games with my hilarious family, traveling, my mom’s cooking, and all birds (especially parakeets and hummingbirds).
Current goals
Get representation as an illustrator or author/illustrator
Publish my picture books traditionally
Get illustration work for book covers
Create a graphic novel for early readers
Create monthly Substack posts
