Born in May 1975, Merrilees Originates from London. She lives in Colorado, just a stones throw away from the Rocky Mountains. 

Merrilees received her BA Honors in fine art, painting and drawing, from the Glasgow School of Art. She earned her Masters in Photojournalism and Documentary Photography from the London College of Communication, University of the Arts. She has experience in teaching, holding a post-graduate degree in art and design education from The Institute of Education, University College London.

“Caspian Finds a Friend” published by Chronicle Books in Fall 2019, is Merrilees's first book and It has been selected for the Society of Illustrators Original Art Show. Her illustrations bring lyricism, to an imaginative picture book about how the power to change our world lies within ourselves.

Her images comprise of traditional methods of drawing, printmaking and painting. Using expressive line, subtle, and luscious bands of collaged color, she strives to create creatures, tiny to tall, gleaming with character. Her passion for the visual arts, art education, and experience in working with young people, are harmoniously synthesized within her illustration.

Exhibitions

2019 The Society of Illustrators, Original Art Exhibit, New York

2014 Les ArtyChauts. Illustrations,  Paris 

2008  The Print Space Gallery, London

2006  The Barge house, OXO Tower Wharf, London. 

2003  Die OrgelFabrik, Durlach, Karlsruhe, Germany.

2002  Gedok Kunstlernen Forum, Karlsruhe, Germany.

2000  The Association Gallery, Ilford Professional portrait awards, London.

1999  National Portrait Gallery, BP Portrait Award, London.

1997  The Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh.