Tomoko Kuramae is a Joshibi University of Art and Design graduate who opened Studio Pittoresco in 2001 and currently works as an illustrator and craft designer--creating watercolor illustrations, cards and prints for a variety of clients. She is an art instructor for children and adults who has taught sketching and design at many locations around Japan, and also holds creative workshops for kids where they learn to make use of natural materials. Her work is frequently exhibited in various venues around Japan.