Jay Fleck

Jay Fleck is a Shorewood, Illinois-based illustrator and author known for his bold, colorful, and whimsical style. Working both digitally and with pencil, he creates bright, joyful illustrations that often feature animals, cute dinosaurs, and heartwarming characters. His sunlit studio overlooks a small tree that frequently hosts a nest of birds, a constant inspiration for his playful work. Jay’s mission is simple: to create art that brings a smile to anyone who sees it.

After a career as an engineer, Jay found his true calling in children’s book illustration in his mid 30’s. Though he treasures all of his projects, his current favorite is the Tiny T. Rex series (written by Jonathan Stutzman)—which has earned spots on both the New York Times and National Indie bestseller lists, selling nearly a million copies to date. The series’ lovable dinosaur protagonist perfectly captures a big-hearted and fun spirit that resonates deeply with fans of all ages.

When not in the studio, Jay enjoys walking his dogs, running, and soaking in the vibrant culture of nearby Chicago.