Megumi Akiyama was born in Kawasaki, Japan.  She received her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Illustration from California State, Long Beach and began her career as a children’s book illustrations.  She has since added contemporary art to her repertoire.

The artist’s childhood memories of summer festivals, elaborate kimonos and fireworks displays are a major influence on her work. In addition, her current desert environment in Phoenix, where she now resides, has become a strong influence.