Interview: Lauren sharples

Preferred Pronoun?
She / Her

Why did you choose to enter this work?
As my first picture book, this story holds a special place in my heart and watching the initial sketches evolve into final artwork has been very fulfilling journey.

What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
My favorite aspect is the colour palette. It truly reflects my style and captures the warm, inviting hues of the city that inspired me - like bottling up Amsterdam!

What excites you most about being shortlisted?
I'm most excited that I get to share this project with a wider audience. It's exciting that my small idea, born from the curiosity of living in a new city, will reach more people.

Where do you usually work?
This project began on location with observational studies around Amsterdam, then I developed the illustrations at my desk in my studio surrounded by all my materials.

How long did it take to complete your project?
From initial developments to the final artwork, this project took me around 10 months.

What is your dream commission?
From a young age I enjoyed writing and illustrating my own versions of the "Guess How Much I Love You" books, so, it would be a dream to have my own authored and illustrated book published!

What’s your favourite thing to draw?
I love drawing people, especially children, and transforming them into book characters. I enjoy creating characters that feel a little peculiar and unique for my stories.

What is your best tip for other illustrators?
Stay curious and pay attention to the little happenings around you. Absorbing conversations and the peculiarities of everyday life can always inspire a drawing or a story!

What are your plans for the future?
My plan is to complete my MA course in Children's Book Illustration and then continue illustrating children’s books - and hopefully collaborate with publishers


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