I'm a children's writer and illustrator living with my wife, Sarah, and cat, Pawtia, in Hertfordshire, UK.
Working from a cosy studio (usually with a cat on my lap), I love drawing quirky, whimsical characters and occasionally staring out of the window. I'm drawn to crayons, the texture of coloured pencils, sketches and inky drawings. I love picture books and have a continuously growing collection!
I grew up in South Africa and Portugal where my every scribble and story was awarded the high honour of a place on my parent's fridge. As a groan-up, I settled in Hertfordshire, England, where I met my wife, our cat and my love of children's illustration.
I studied graphic design in London and completed a course in picture book writing and illustrating through Curtis Brown Creative. I had the urge to explore and follow every opportunity which gave me an eclectic work experience. I've finally found all the adventure I need in a pencil, paper and the view from my studio window.
When I'm not drawing I can usually be found reading picture books, listening to podcasts, eating sushi, drinking coffee, waking up way too early or watching the rain.
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Contact
Please get in touch via the contact form to chat about anything illustration-related or you can email me directly leannecoelhouk@gmail.com