Looking closely
is the work.

I illustrate natural science subjects such as birds, insects, fish, mammals and botanicals, mostly by hand in watercolor and gouache. I do use digital media at times, but every illustration starts, and is fundamentally created, on paper.

For freelance scientific illustration or to license an existing piece, please email me at gina@scientificillustrator.com.

See my daughter's work at Alexandra Mikel, artist and naturalist.

I photograph animals and plants at zoos, botanical gardens, aquariums and nature preserves, mainly as reference for future illustrations.

The photographs are copyrighted too; please email me for terms of use. If you spot a misidentified bird, I would be glad to hear about it.

See the photographs →