I’ve always loved writing and painting. After four years at art college I left with a degree in graphic design and worked for a while in a studio designing kitchen textiles, including oven gloves in the shape of fish and aprons in the shape of bananas!Since becoming freelance I’ve worked on many projects such as designing ceramics, toys, stationery, textiles and greeting cards as well as teaching at local art colleges. I now spend my time illustrating and writing picture books for children (over one hundred in all). I work in my studio in Stratford upon Avon, where I live with my husband and two daughters. I’m afraid I’ve used them shamelessly for inspiration over the years!

Workshops
I really enjoy visiting schools and find that children are fascinated by the book-making process.

Key Stage 1
For younger children I read different types of picture and novelty books and we discuss how ideas come about. Children love to see the work involved in just one page of the book and I talk them through the process, showing them everything from scrappy doodles to the finished painting. By then they are very keen to have a go themselves and they can either use templates I’ve prepared in advance or draw their own illustration, incorporating a flap or texture to add interest. I find that a one hour session is usually enough for younger groups, though older ones can cope with longer.

Key Stage 2
Children of this age enjoy all of the above, but can manage more complicated concepts. They might like to illustrate a poem they have written in class, for example.

Key Stage 3
Despite my books being aimed at the under tens, older children find the writing and painting aspect very interesting. Students who have selected art for a GCSE or A-level are interested in discussing technical issues and talking about career opportunities. I usually show them my old school art folder so they can see that at their age I was definitely still learning! This makes them less daunted if they are considering some sort of career in art or design in the future.

Generally speaking I find that a group of no more than thirty children is best, smaller if possible for younger groups. It’s important for them to be able to see everything properly that I’m showing them and to be able to ask questions freely.

Feedback
Thank you so much for coming to visit us. We loved looking at the books and finding out how you thought of your ideas for the pictures. We hope you can come and visit us again.

All the children and staff, Leigh and Bransford Primary School

Thank you for your passion and enthusiasm whilst working with our children during Arts Week. You have been truly inspirational and we have loved working with you.
Krysia Vickery, Alverston C of E Primary School

Books
My Ice Palace Party, Macmillan (2008)
Drive it! Tractor/Submarine/Bus/Jeep, Campbell (2007)
Fairy Picnic/Wedding/Ballet/Party, Campbell (2007)
Night Night, Franklin Watts (2007)
All Join In Noah/Jonah/Baby Jesus/Lost sheep, Lion Hudson (2006)
Juggling Joe, Franklin Watts (2006)
In My Little Pink/Blue Bed, Top That (2006)