Working from a cosy studio, drinking far too much coffee, I love drawing quirky, whimsical characters with silliness and depth inspired by nature, culture and the small things that make a big difference in everyday life. 

 

I’m drawn to crayons, the texture of soft coloured pencils, sketches and collage, creating words and pictures that play well together.

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I grew up in South Africa and Portugal where my scribbles and stories were awarded the high honour of a place on my parent’s fridge. I finally settled in Hertfordshire, where I met my wife, our cat and my love of picture books and illustration. 

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I studied graphic design in London and am a self-taught illustrator. I completed a course in picture book writing and illustrating through Curtis Brown Creative in 2019-20. I was a 2022 AOI mentee, mentored by Caroline Thompson of Arena Illustration and I was part of the 2023-24 Pathways Into Children's Publishing mentee cohort mentored by David Roberts. 

 

I've had the urge to explore and follow every opportunity which has given me an eclectic work experience and source of inspiration to draw from. I've finally found all the adventure I need in a pencil, paper and the view from my studio window. 

 

As an LGBTQIA+ artist, creating  pictures and stories showing everyone, in every way in our world  is very important to me. Creating work that encourages resilience, imagination, empathy, courage, curiosity and a sense of wonder in the world.

When I'm not drawing I'm usually reading, playing games, going for walks, listening to podcasts, eating sushi, waking up far too early or pottering around the garden with Pawtia. 

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