Elaine is an illustrator based in New York City. 

She received her Bachelor of Architecture from Syracuse University and Master of Fine Arts in Illustration as Visual Essay at the School of Visual Arts.

Her work explores the relationship between architecture and human experience. Drawing from architectural thinking, she uses buildings and urban environments as both subject matter and visual structure to investigate memory, perception, and the ways people interact with the spaces around them. Through illustration, she combines observation with speculative storytelling to reimagine familiar places from new perspectives.

Contact her with any questions or inquiries via hello@elainexmou.com

Awards & Recognition

3x3 Illustration Annual 23, Professional Show Merit, 2026

American Illustration 45, Chosen Winner, 2026

Alumni Scholarship Awards, School of Visual Arts, 2026

MFA Illustration Department Merit Scholarship, School of Visual Arts, 2024 - 2026

The William J. Slivers Prize, Syracuse University, Honorable Mention, 2019

Exhibitions

MFA Illustration as Visual Essay Spring 2026 Thesis Exhibition, SVA Chelsea Gallery, New York, 2026

The Book Show, SVA Gramercy Gallery, New York, 2025

The Visit to the Museum, SVA Chelsea Gallery, New York, 2025

Challenge and Opportunity, Shanghai, China, 2021

Interviews & Publications

AKAxSVA Calendar, 2025

Bold Journey, 2025