Have you ever dreamed of illustrating your own picture book?

The secret isn’t just about being a great artist—it is about emotional readability, connection, and charm. In this exclusive 6-week online course, I am opening up my studio doors to share the exact industry techniques used to craft unforgettable characters that leap right off the page and stick with readers long after the book is closed. Learn how to make characters that are appealing, funny, and child-centered. I will share examples of how to use emotion to create characters that leap off the page, with their mannerisms, playfulness, and little challenges that seem so big. We will learn how to make the viewer care. I will share my reading list of brilliant books as I mentor and coach you.

Over six transformative weeks, we will move from rough concepts to industry-ready, child-centred character designs:

• Mastering Mediums & Techniques: Explore a variety of visual tools and mediums to bring depth, texture, and beauty to your unique art style.
• The Power of Gesture & Movement: Move past stiff poses. Learn how to inject life, rhythm, and dynamic action into your character’s body language.
• Designing Unforgettable Animals: Discover the visual rules for drawing appealing, funny, and deeply relatable animal protagonists that kids instantly connect with.
• Capturing Big Emotions in Little Moments: Learn how to translate the daily “little challenges” of childhood—the ones that feel so huge to a young reader—into powerful, expressive visual storytelling.
• Making the Viewer Care: Unlock the industry secrets of visual psychology to build instant empathy between your character and the reader.
• Direct Coaching & Mentorship: Receive personalized feedback and guidance from me to refine your portfolio and storytelling style.
• An Expert Reading List: Gain access to a curated list of brilliant, boundary-pushing children’s books to an

Ready to Bring Your Picture Book Characters to Life?

Whether you are a budding illustrator excited to explore your creative potential, an author-illustrator eager to refine your storytelling skills through captivating visuals, or someone looking to break into the highly competitive children’s publishing market, this course is designed to equip you with the practical skills and insider confidence you need. You’ll learn essential techniques for character design, storyboarding, and marketing your work effectively, all while receiving valuable feedback from experienced professionals in the industry. By the end of the course, you’ll not only have a deeper understanding of the children’s publishing landscape but also a polished portfolio that showcases your unique artistic voice, setting you on the path to success.

I have had books published by Dorling Kindersley, Tango, and Macmillan Children’s Books, and I have worked with Nosy Crow and HarperCollins. I have lectured at Derby University to their MA students on picture books and publishing. I have created over 30 books with schools, universities, colleges and art organizations, as well as storytelling on BBC One.