Favourite Illustrators

One of the reasons I love reading picture books with my kids is the pictures. I’m not a hugely artsy person. I don’t think of myself as having any artistic talent, yet. Maybe this is why I am blown away at the level of artistry that some books contain. Sometimes I think this illustrator is so talented that they could be doing so many other things with their skill besides producing books for children. But then I think, what better use of a fantastic talent than sharing it with non-judgmental, impressionable, eager to learn kids.

Here are 3 of my favourite children’s illustrators (at the moment).

David Roberts

His distinctive style is so cool. His pictures contain imagery from various eras that captivate kids and make the book more interesting for adults. I also love that his illustrations have so much detail. There is so much visual information packed into every page.

Also, he illustrates the must-read for 5-9 year old girls, Rosie Revere.

Leo Timmers

I absolutely adore this man’s artwork. I am so glad a person with his taste, style, and talent turned their hand to children’s books. He often has anthropomorphic animals as characters in his books, which is perfect for young children. His images contain colours that draw the reader in, and whimsical proportions that give your imagination an education.

Not sure how else to make it clear how much I love this illustrator’s work.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!

Cheryl Orsini

Probably my favourite Aussie Illustrator at the moment. Many children’s books are full of bright colours, so Cheryl’s soft tones feel really unique.

Sometimes I feel items (be they books, clothes, shoes, bags, lunch boxes or any other everyday item) designed for and targeted towards young girls to be saccharine, overly perfected and much too pink, which worries me.  I would say Cheryl’s pictures have a feminine quality that is sweet without being over the top, and refined, yet still relaxed.