Illustrator Maruga Koops
Maruga Koops is a children’s book illustrator based in The Netherlands. She creates colorful and uplifting illustrations that celebrate diversity, inclusion, and authentic representation. Her work brings diverse characters to life with vibrant color, rich textures, and a sense of joy, helping children see themselves reflected in the stories they read.
With roots in both Aruban and Dutch cultures, Maruga grew up rarely seeing herself represented in media. This experience shapes her mission as an illustrator to create artwork for children that feels familiar, empowering, and real. Her illustrations are crafted to support identity, empathy, and imagination in young readers.
Maruga works in both digital and traditional media, experimenting with new materials and techniques. While her primary focus is on children’s book illustration, she also creates greeting cards, prints, and playful products infused with her signature mix of color and whimsy.
Maruga Koops lives in Utrecht with her husband, a children’s book author, their two daughters and a fluffy dog. When she is not illustrating, she enjoys spending time in nature, dancing with friends, experimenting with new art tools in her studio, or relaxing with her family.
She is represented by Advocate Art outside the Netherlands and Belgium.
Maruga is passionate about using illustration to tell inclusive stories that reflect the diverse world we live in, ensuring that every child can find themselves on the page.
Illustration coaching
In addition to her illustration work, Maruga Koops offers illustration coaching for emerging and aspiring illustrators. She guides creative makers in developing their personal style, improving technical skills, and building confidence in their illustration practice. Based in Utrecht, she provides both one-on-one coaching and online mentoring for illustrators who want to grow professionally and creatively.