Craft Fair - Arts Centre Washington

This weekend I had my very first stall at the monthly Craft Fair at the Arts Centre Washington. This venue is perfectly positioned in the middle of Newcastle, Sunderland and Durham. The fair itself, hosts a variety of stalls from talented local and regional artists and crafts people. It is held on the first Saturday of every month.

This was a great fair to be apart of and an interesting way for me to test my work in public. I met some very talented artists and some very lovely customers. I have posted a couple of photos of my stall to share with you.

I will be at the next two fairs leading up to Christmas, so if you are in the local area, please pop in and say hello. There will be a great variety of exciting gifts, to suit every member of your family!

Next two dates:
3rd November 2012  10am - 3.30pm
1st December 2012   10am - 3.30pm (Christmas Craft Fair)

Hope to see you there! x

Illustration Friday - Book

I don't normally do pink, but thought I'd give it a go for a change.

Illustration Friday - Burst

A poor little someone is about to burst into tears. I hope she feels a bit better tomorrow.

Illustration Friday - Teacher

Here is a little taster of something that I have been working on over the summer. For purpose of this week's Illustration Friday topic I am going to say that 'this little girl is teaching this cute dog how to behave nicely.'

There is more to these two little characters though.... I am being very daring and having a go at writing AND illustrating my own picture book, after much encouragement from friends, mentors and my lovely agent Kathryn Ross.

I wouldn't say that writing stories comes naturally to me, but I feel that things are finally starting to take shape. The main character is inspired by my little niece, which definitely keeps me entertained!

Working at Walker Books, 2012

Arranging the page order for NEW Maisy Mouse book.

It has been a very busy summer, but I finally have the opportunity to sit down and update you on my news from Walker Books.

It was the most amazing few weeks working with the designers in the Picture Book Team. I have collaborated on some fantastic projects such as NEW Maisy Mouse creations by Lucy Cousins, Jon Klassen's latest book This is not my hat, a new project written and illustrated by Sue Heap and James Marshall's classic Goldilocks and the three bears. I am so excited to see the work in print!

Book plate designs for 'This is not my hat', by Jon Klassen.

This experience also allowed me to handle some breathtaking original artwork by Helen Oxenbury and very precious twenty-year-old Noah's Ark illustrations by Lucy Cousins. This was extremely interesting to see the artwork before it is touched by the designers. I also got to handle early concept stages for new Mary Murphy and Sue Heap projects. 

Handling original Noah's Ark artwork by Lucy Cousins. 

Noah's Ark artwork by Lucy Cousins.

As well as having the opportunity to contribute to such exciting projects, I have met some amazing illustrators. I had a beautiful Maisy book signed by the very colourful Lucy Cousins. I also met the absolute genius Chris Haughton and the illustration legend that is Miss Polly Dunbar!

With Polly Dunbar in the Picture Book Department.

Working on new 'Tilly and Friends' picture books. 

I would like to say a very big thank you to all of you lovely people in the Picture Book Team. I miss working with you all, but will make sure I pop in (with some cake) next time I am in London.

Best wishes,

Holly :) x

Illustration Friday - Secret

Celia the elephant has a wonderful secret talent to share with everyone this week.

Edinburgh College of Art Degree Show 2012

Kathleen Meaney

Josefin Sundqvist

Josefin Sundqvist

Jade Price

Lisa Lind

I have recently been to the Edinburgh College of Art degree show and have come back extremely inspired for the final year of my Masters course next year. My favourite work that was on display belonged to the talented illustrators Kathleen Meaney, Josefin Sundqvist, Jade Price and Lisa Lind.

Well done to all those graduating this year and good luck for the future!