Hi, I’m Maryam.
I’m an illustrator, storyteller, and the creator behind Kashmiri Chai & Books Studio.
I believe every illustration begins with a story. Sometimes it’s found in the pages of a children’s book, sometimes in an everyday conversation, and sometimes in the quiet moments that invite us to look a little closer at the world around us.
My creative journey began during the pandemic while I was living in New York. What started as a personal outlet soon became a lifelong passion. Entirely self-taught, I found myself drawn to creating colourful, thoughtful illustrations that celebrate imagination, community, and the stories that connect us.
Today, I create artwork for children’s books, editorial projects, branding, and personal commissions. Whether I’m illustrating a playful character or exploring themes of belonging and identity, my goal is always the same: to create work that feels honest, memorable, and full of heart.
In 2025, I was featured in Forbes alongside other illustrators, where I spoke about using illustration to tell meaningful stories and explore the experiences that shape us. It remains a reminder of the power creative work has to start conversations and build connections.
When I’m not drawing, you’ll usually find me surrounded by my two beautiful children, my books, writing on my Substack, sketching new ideas over a cup of chai, or finding inspiration in everyday life.
Thank you for visiting my little corner of the internet. I hope you find something here that makes you pause, smile, or see the world a little differently.
A Little More About Me
- Based in Pakistan
- Self-taught illustrator
- Children’s books, editorial illustration, branding & lettering
- Writer on Substack
- Featured in Forbes
- Firm believer that the best ideas often begin with a cup of chai
A Personal Note
“Stories have always been my favourite way of making sense of the world. Through illustration, I hope to create work that invites curiosity, comfort, and connection—one colourful story at a time.”
