MJ Palma was born and raised in Sampaloc, Manila. She is a self-taught artist and was influenced by her cousin, Kuya Dante to pursue the arts. She graduated from the Far Eastern University with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Makati.

Despite finishing a lot of courses for her degree, art was still in her heart and soul. Her works incorporate clean lines, shades and vibrant colors she incorporates into her fish scales, which creates  a three-dimensional effect. She experiments with different styles to keep her works new and exciting, yet maintaining her unique artistic identity.