Best known for his New York Times op-ed illustrations that focus on contemporary Middle Eastern politics, Mark Podwal also produces children’s book illustrations and sensitive, whimsical paintings that explore aspects of the Jewish faith—its culture, customs, and history. Born into a non-observant Jewish family, Podwal embarked on a passionate study of Judaism early in life, once saying, “I look at Judaism as something that can offer me creativity.” Podwal has also taken an active role in promoting tolerance between the Jewish, Islamic, and Christian faiths, seeing his work as a way to bring different communities together.