Emma Simpson – World Illustration Awards

2024 | Longlist + Shortlist | Children's Publishing

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Why did you create this work?
Before becoming an author-illustrator, I worked in Special Ed for many years. This made me very aware of the power of seeing each child as an individual and allowing them to flourish in their own time. Clara repeatedly hears others say she is shy and feels trapped by this concept of herself. I would like my story to show there is nothing wrong with feeling shy but it should not define a person.
How were your illustrations used?
Book Cover, book inside and spot illustrations.
What materials and techniques did you use?
I enjoyed experimenting with ink rollers to create different textures for the trees and leaf prints. I also used water colour, fine liner pens, collage and a computer for digital assembly.
Was this project commissioned?
Commissioned
Commissioner Name
Nadine Robert, publisher
Commissioner Company
Milky Way Picture Books
Commissioner Instagram
@milky_way_picture_books
Personal Website or Portfolio Link
emmasimpson01.wixsite.com/mysite-1
Instagram
@emmachristinasimpson
X (formerly Twitter)
@EmmaChristinaS2
Biography
Emma Simpson is a British author-illustrator living in Bavaria. Many years spent working in special education and a love for nature are great influences on her work. Emma was a 2021 UK winner of the international picture book illustration competition Picture This! Clara and the Birds is her debut picture book, released in the US June 2024 with Milky Way Picture Books.
Where are you currently based?
Germany

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