Hi! I'm Rowan - I'm 28, a BA (Hons) Illustration graduate from Norwich University College of the Arts and developing freelance artist.
I've always had a big interest in producing picture books since I was little, but during my course, I really felt the passion for it has developed and I created "Let's Play!" for my final assessment's main project. I am really proud with how it came out and it gave me confidence in being able to work in that area of illustration. I also did a very contrasting picture book for the poem 'Dulce et Decorum Est' by Wilfred Owen, which also made me feel I could work with different content and age groups but still be recognised for my style.
However, since leaving university, my interests have moved slightly more away from children's illustration (though not entirely) and towards concept and character design, cartoon and Manga style and even doll customisation! I have broadened my net of creativity in a way and like feeling like I can do a bit of each, and that all these appeal to different audiences.
I've had a huge connection to art. Many members of my family are artistic, so it has genetically and physically rubbed off on me from as early as I can remember! I just knew it was what I wanted to do, and didn't really wish for a different career path. I had my first book cover published in 2005 for a masonic joke book, "How Many Freemason Does It Take To Change A Lightbulb?", which I am both proud of and a little embarrassed about. At the age of thirteen, my style had not yet developed and I am surprised that it actually got accepted! But the fact I was able to do a commission of that standard at that age, I can't help but feel it was a big achievement and the start of my illustrative journey. Since then, I have done illustrations for 'The Masonic Square Magazine', depicting the character of Jason Talbort to go alongside the short stories about the mystic detective, photography for two books - "Henna Magic" by Philippa Faulks, and "Becoming a Ninja Warrior" by Martin Faulks. I was also asked to produce a cover for an independent online fashion and trend magazine, 'Regardless', for the first issue, and spot illustrations for the second issue.
I work a full-time retail job, but I try to work on creative anything in my spare time (when I'm not indulging in a game, staring into space or trying to tidy my poor house!). I have started working on some commissions and am excited to start opening up officially very soon!
To see what I have to offer, go to the Services page or have a nose around my website - if I don't offer what you're looking for in the list, please feel free to Contact Me!