MICHAEL MARTCHENKO
Award-winning illustrator of Robert Munsch children’s books
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A true icon in children’s book illustration, Michael Martchenko is the artistic force behind most of author Robert Munsch’s children’s books, starting with The Paper Bag Princess in 1980. After graduating from the Ontario College of Art (OCA, now OCAD University) in 1966, Martchenko began a career as an art director in advertising before turning to children’s publishing.
His partnership with Munsch, which began in the late 1970s, transformed Canadian children’s literature, producing bestselling books that have delighted millions of readers in Canada and around the world.
Martchenko’s remarkable body of work has earned numerous honours and secured his place as one of Canada's most celebrated children's book illustrators.
In 2025, Martchenko reflected on his time at OCA in the 1960s and the experiences that helped shape his award-winning career as an illustrator.
Learn more about Michael Martchenko
Image credit: The Paper Bag Princess, Annick Press
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