Nature is a place of refuge and a source of healing, and I explore this connection through my work. This connection carries through in my work as both a fine artist and a children’s book author-illustrator. My paintings and illustrations are characterized by gestural marks, soft colors and a sense of light and atmosphere. Blurring the line between abstraction and realism, I have developed a painterly yet playful style. Subject matter might include closeups of animals, birds or small creatures. 

I received a BFA in Painting from Washington University and a K-12 Certification in Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. I have taught art and mindfulness in various public and private schools, art centers, and museums for over 20 years. Furthermore, my paintings have been exhibited in galleries nationally and internationally. In particular, my series of small acrylic on canvas paintings of birds can be found in my etsy shop and in various retail locations.

After illustrating the children's book "Little Seed's Journey" in 2019 I decided to wholeheartedly explore illustration and writing children's picture books. I have written and illustrated three children's books which I am currently in the process of querying. I am a member of SCBWI, Storyteller Academy and Let's Make Picture Books, and I also participate in conferences and critique groups. 

To enroll in online children's art classes, please visit: outschool.com/teachers/Molly-Cranch#usKByXIzOq

To purchase the children's book "Little Seed's Journey," please visit: www.littleseedsjourney.com/
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​To view "The Great Pause," a video featuring artists working during the time of the coronavirus pandemic:  www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAMtnTdgoQE&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR1WizoLoaQXsH2lake3XB9yoHRR2GGPgr-ORT2OfWRAXtcxl_f93QwVBas

​To read an article about Molly in Mindful Word: www.themindfulword.org/2017/art-mindfulness-molly-cranch/

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