Jill McElmurry facts for kids

Jill McElmurray (born in 1954 – died on August 3, 2017) was an American artist. She was a talented painter, a writer, and an illustrator, especially known for her work in children's books.

About Jill McElmurray

Jill McElmurray was a wonderful artist who brought many stories to life with her detailed and unique illustrations. She created pictures for popular children's books and also wrote some of her own.

Early Life and Family

Jill McElmurray was born in Los Angeles, California. When she was a child, her family moved to Taos, New Mexico, where they lived for six years. Art ran in her family! Her father was a character designer for movie companies like Walt Disney. Her mother was a fashion illustrator, drawing clothes and designs. Even her grandfather was an artist; he painted backgrounds for RKO Pictures films.

Becoming an Artist

Jill studied art at two different schools. She went to SUNY Purchase and also to the School of Visual Arts in New York. These schools helped her develop her artistic skills and unique style.

Her Famous Books

Jill McElmurray illustrated many books for young readers. One of her most famous works is the Little Blue Truck series. These popular books, written by Alice Schertle, feature a friendly blue truck and his animal friends. Jill's illustrations helped make these stories beloved by children everywhere. She also wrote and illustrated her own book called Mad About Plaid.

Her Art Style

Jill McElmurray had a special way of painting. She often used gouache, which is a type of paint that looks a bit like watercolor but is thicker and more opaque. Her paintings were very detailed and featured characters that were easy to recognize. Besides illustrating books, Jill also painted fine art. She was known for her beautiful landscape paintings of New Mexico.

Jill McElmurray lived with her husband in Taos, New Mexico, and also in Good Dog Island, Minnesota. She passed away on August 3, 2017.