Featured Artist Sophie Kittredge

Illustrator Sophie Kittredge shares her charming portfolio. Enjoy, and find out more about this artist by visiting her website.

 

 

I illustrate maps, books, magazines, games and product packaging. But I feel most creative and have the most fun illustrating children’s books.

 

 

Born in Paris, France, I grew up in Europe, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. So I have fun mixing all the different cultural and artistic influences I was exposed to as a kid in my books. We always had animals. Along with my favorite dogs, I drew inspiration for my latest books from intricate Persian miniature paintings for one book, and Japanese screens and woodblock prints for another.

 

 

After earning a BA in illustration from Harrow College of Art near London in the UK, I spent a few years in New York City painting background scenery for animation and film. At the same time as I was painting watercolor backgrounds for the Beavis and Butthead movie, I discovered the pleasures of vicarious travel through map making and started making illustrated maps for various publishers.

 

 

Watercolor, gouache and Photoshop are the tools of my trade, though I’m not wedded to any one particular medium. Whatever it takes to create the best effect is fine with me.

 

 

Of my two author-illustrated books, one is also an ebook. And I’ve made two short book trailers for them with music and animation. For my next ebook and app, I plan to include my animation as well as my choice of music and voices.

 

 

I just finished illustrating a commissioned picture book set in New Zealand.

 

 

I’m also trying to do a lot of sketching these days. My favorite models are animals. I work on a variety of commissions, and I have a new children’s book in the works.

 

 

My goal is to keep exploring new book ideas, keep developing my style, and sharpening my artistic skills.

 

 

I really love being a full-time illustrator!