Dr. Zhivago a.k.a. Marie Zhivago, is an American Cartoonist, Published Children's book Author based in San Diego, California. She received a San Diego Public Library Local Author Medal in 2013. Zhivago was also appointed by the Mayor and City Council as Commissioner for the City of Chula Vista, Cultural Arts Commission (December 2nd, 2014-2018). Dual Majored in art and medical field. Zhivago graduated from college in 1989, from FIDM, The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Los Angeles, California.

 

     

 

       In 1989, she obtained a Degree from F.I.D.M. Los Angeles, CA. and double majored in Surgical Technology Degree from Southwestern College, 1993.   

 

While working in the Design Industry, Marie also had interest in Human Anatomy and the medical field.  

​

For over 18 years Marie earned the  nickname Dr. Zhivago working as a surgical assistant, by surgeons and anesthesiologists. 

 

Dr. Zhivago always made time for children while working full-time in the medical field. She taught part-time, the wonderful world of drawing and basic cartoon animation throughout San Diego schools, libraries, museums and even taught art in the critical care unit at Rady Children's Hospital, since 1996. Eventually, Dr. Zhivago would turn her back on assisting in the operating room and find her way back to art and design.

 

In 2011 Dr. Zhivago began writing her first book entitled, "The Sakura." The book was published in 2012. As as tribute to fellow illustrator-author Dr. Seuss, Dr. Zhivago was also chosen as a nickname amongst the children and staff of the elementary schools she visited. Dr. Zhivago's cartoons and stories have an environmental theme and teaches kids about awareness.

​

Dr. Zhivago's Public Service Roles

​

Dr. Zhivago served as The Cultural Arts Commissioner and Vice Chairwoman

2013-2016 City of Chula Vista.

​

Cultural Arts Master Plan Prepared by the Cultural Arts Division Economic Development Department.

​

​

Dr. Zhivago was Recognized

for outstanding achievements in entrepreneurship.

​

(San Diego, CA) Saturday, September 26, the National Council of Negro Women San Diego, Inc., hosted its 49th annual community luncheon, Passing the Legacy Forward: Celebrating “Phenomenal Women in Entrepreneurship.”

NCNW San Diego Recognizes Ten Phenomenal Women Entrepreneurs

​

​

​