Mary Thelen
Mary Thelen is the founder of Maryka, Inc. and a distinguished illustrator, designer, and senior art director with over 50 years of experience in the creative industry. She has built a remarkable career producing design sketches, illustrations, and brand development solutions for a wide range of clients, consistently combining artistic vision with professional expertise. Her ability to translate ideas into compelling visuals has made her a trusted creative partner for organizations and individuals alike.
Mary’s career began with a lifelong passion for art, nurtured since childhood, which inspired her to pursue formal studies at Webster University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Fine and Applied Arts, and additional study at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, focusing on commercial and product design. She also served as Visual Arts Manager for Anythink Libraries in the Denver Metropolitan Area, where she directed design and illustration for library programs, publications, and community initiatives.
Throughout her career, Mary has been recognized not only for her creative talent but also for her achievement in maintaining long-term relationships with clients, earning their trust and loyalty over decades. Her extensive skills in Adobe Creative Suite, illustration, graphic design, copywriting, and brand development reflect a lifelong dedication to excellence and innovation in the visual arts, making her a respected leader and mentor in her field.
• Webster University - BA
• School of the Art Institute of Chicago
• Society of Illustrators
• Colorado Humane
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering encouragement and support I have received from my clients throughout my career. Their trust, feedback, and collaboration have not only inspired me to continually refine my craft but have also motivated me to pursue new creative directions and professional growth. I am deeply grateful for their confidence in my work, as it has been a driving force behind every achievement and milestone I have reached.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that the easiest thing to do is to take the risk. Embracing opportunities, even when they feel uncertain or challenging, has consistently led to growth, new experiences, and unexpected successes. I’ve learned that leaning into risk with thoughtful preparation often opens doors that playing it safe never could.