Influential Woman · Art and scientific illustration
Peggy Macnamara
Adjunct Professor, School of the Art Institute
Wilmette, IL 60091
Her Story
About Peggy
Peggy Macnamara is a distinguished artist, author, scientific illustrator, and educator who serves as an Artist-in-Residence at the Field Museum of Natural History and an Adjunct Associate Professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. With a career spanning more than three decades, she has dedicated her work to exploring the relationship between art, science, and the natural world. Through her teaching, museum work, and creative practice, Peggy has inspired generations of artists, scientists, and students to view nature through a deeper artistic lens.
Peggy began her long-standing relationship with the Field Museum by creating artwork for museum exhibits and later established a studio where she collaborated with scientists on research publications and conservation initiatives. Her specialty in scientific illustration, watercolor painting, and natural history art has led her to document a wide range of subjects, including birds, mammals, insects, lichens, fossils, and marine life. She has traveled with Field Museum scientists to illustrate nature and conservation efforts and has authored and co-authored numerous books, including five publications with scientists through the University of Chicago Press. Her published works explore topics such as migration, insects, wildlife, and natural ecosystems, while her children’s books and coloring books bring science and nature education to younger audiences.
Peggy earned her B.A. in Art History from Manhattanville College and her M.A. in Art History from the University of Chicago. Her artistic philosophy centers on careful observation, curiosity, and the belief that studying nature enhances both artistic expression and understanding. In addition to her museum and academic roles, she has presented exhibitions throughout the United States and Europe, conducted artist workshops, and maintained a significant collection of original watercolor works displayed at the Field Museum. Peggy attributes her success to persistence, continuous learning, and a passion for sharing knowledge. As an educator and mentor, she views teaching as a meaningful way to inspire others while continuing to expand the connection between art, science, and discovery.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Peggy
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to persistence and resilience. I believe in continuing to move forward, even when challenges arise or things do not go as planned. Rather than allowing setbacks to define my path, I approach each day with renewed determination, learning from experiences and finding new ways to grow. My ability to persevere, remain focused, and keep moving ahead has been a key factor in my personal and professional achievements.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to stay true to what I love and pursue work that aligns with my passions and values. I chose not to pursue a specific opportunity because it would have taken me away from what brings me the greatest fulfillment: teaching and sharing knowledge with others. I believe that passing on what I have learned, inspiring others, and helping students grow are some of the most meaningful contributions I can make throughout my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to believe in themselves, stay committed to their craft, and avoid being overly critical of their own progress. Do not let the opinions or judgments of others define your path; instead, focus on developing your skills, learning from the work of those you admire, and continually striving to grow. Throughout my career, I have found inspiration by studying the work of great artists, including Renaissance masters, and using that knowledge to strengthen my own practice. I also encourage women to embrace balance and recognize that it is possible to pursue their professional goals while building a fulfilling personal life. As someone who raised seven children while advancing my career, I believe dedication, perseverance, and passion can make it possible to achieve success in both areas.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunity in my field right now is finding new and innovative ways to share information and connect with broader audiences. Digital platforms, including podcasts, video content, and other contemporary mediums, provide exciting opportunities to bring art and science to new generations. I am interested in continuing to adapt my work for modern audiences while using these platforms to expand the reach of my artwork, research, and educational mission. By embracing new forms of communication, we can make knowledge more accessible and inspire greater appreciation for the natural world.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are persistence, gratitude, and the ability to embrace the creative process. I value the privilege of being able to do my work every day and approach each opportunity with appreciation and curiosity. I have learned that growth comes from continued effort rather than striving for perfection, and I believe in allowing myself the freedom to create, learn, and improve along the way. Inspired by Anne Lamott’s perspective on embracing imperfection, I recognize that meaningful work comes from authenticity, dedication, and the willingness to keep moving forward.
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