Ellan Rankin
The Curry Bird

Children's Publishing

Un-commissioned | New Talent

Why did you make this work:
This picture book is based on a news article I read, about people who found a yellow bird in their town and thought it was an exotic bird of some kind. In reality, it was a seagull covered in curry! I loved this idea and developed it into a book, about a little boy called Joel who wants to be like his zoologist heroes and discover this exotic new bird- oblivious to the fact it's a curried seagull.

How was the illustration used:
This is a children's picture book intended for ages 5-7. However I intended to create a book which would be enjoyed by both children and parents alike.

How did you make this work:
This is digitally illustrated, with lots of layers and textures. I wanted to use a bright colour palette to reflect the humour in my story. I think what makes this work is the use of textures, created both in photoshop using brushes, and via inks and monoprint rollers. I think these textures combined with the rough edges of my characters, makes a cohesive and interesting image.


Social Media:
twitter.com/ellan_rankin
instagram.com/ellanrankin

Personal Website:
ellanrankin.com

College:
Cambridge School of Art
Course:
MA Children's Book Illustration
Year of Graduation:
2020


Currently Based:
Northern Ireland / England

Biography:
Ellan Rankin is a Northern Irish author-illustrator. She has recently completed a Masters degree in Children's Book Illustration at Cambridge School of Art. A huge animal lover, her picturebooks often centre around animals, history and silly stories she has read in the news.

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