Robin Brickman grew up near Washington, D.C., where the Smithsonian Institution and the Virginia countryside were a regular inspiration. At Bennington College, she majored in graphic arts and botany, and over a long career, she has specialized in natural science illustrations. Brickman has long experimented with different art techniques, in particular painting, drawing, printmaking, bookbinding, calligraphy, papermaking, and fiber arts. These explorations are a foundation for the sculpted watercolor techniques she developed in the 1990s. The books she has illustrated in this method have won her accolades and awards, and the school workshops she leads are a way to introduce others to this fun art technique.