Niña Mata

Photo of Niña Mata
Niña grew up a typical latchkey kid in Queens, New York. Her family emigrated from the Philippines when she was 6 years old. Because her parents worked and went to night school, Niña spent a lot (like a whole lot) of time drawing. Her after school activities usually involved watching Bob Ross, Reading Rainbow and looking for adventures in the library (which she still does). 

Niña studied Illustration at The Fashion Institute of Technology of NY.

Niña grew up in a very diverse neighborhood and often references her childhood when she creates her art. She is proud to be known for the diverse characters in her work as she never saw anyone who looked like her or her friends in books growing up. With one drawing at a time, Niña wants everyone to see how important they are in this world and that our power comes from embracing who we truly are.

She currently lives in New Jersey with her husband, their daughter and Tabi, the cat.


Nationality: Filipino-American

Featured series by Niña Mata


Ryan Hart - Age 7 & up