Researchers

After graduating from the University of Minnesota with an interdepartmental degree in Fine Arts and Biology, Paul Mirocha spent 12 years as a graphic artist for the Office of Arid Lands Studies at the University of Arizona in Tucson. Paul has been the owner of a full-time illustration and graphic design business since 1991. Paul’s book illustrations first appeared in “Gathering the Desert” by Gary Paul Nabhan, winner of the John Burroughs Medal for natural history in 1985. Since then, he has illustrated over 20 children’s picture books and pop-ups as well as books by modern nature writers, among them, Barbara Kingsolver. His work is included in the book “The Very Best of Children’s Illustration,” compiled by the Society of Illustrators. Currently, Paul creates digital illustrations for educational and commercial clients that are known for their combination of realism and emotional appeal. This work is supported by a background in traditional painting and drawing. Paul also exhibits fine art and photography. He is currently a Research Associate and artist-in-residence at the University of Arizona’s Tumamoc: People and Habitats, a Sonoran Desert research preserve and historical landmark.