Commissioned | Professional

Why did you make this work:
I initially set out to create a book that focused on environmental messages but it soon developed into a more complex critique of consumer culture, bringing in ideas of justice and fairness, too. I also wanted this book to offer some hope and empowerment for young people, allowing them the space to imagine what a better world might look like.

How was the illustration used:
The illustrations are used in a 32-page picture book.

How did you make this work:
The artwork was made mostly digitally, but it includes some hand-drawn ink textures, too. The biggest challenge was creating a narrative that worked as an allegory for a serious topic whilst remaining fun and enjoyable for children.

Commissioner Name :
Neil Dunnicliffe
Commissioner Company :
Pavilion Children’s (now Farshore)

Social Media:
twitter.com/hwillustrator
instagram.com/hwillustrator

Personal Website:
hayleywellsillustration.co.uk/


Currently Based:
Chelmsford, UK

Biography:
Hayley Wells graduated with an MA in Children’s Books Illustration from Cambridge School of Art in 2018. They illustrated Kat Patrick’s The Spectacular Suit (Scribble, 2021) and their author-illustrator debut, The More Monster, was published with Pavilion in 2022. Hayley is interested in tackling difficult subjects but with an emphasis on playful and accessible artwork.

Showcase:
https://theaoi.com/showcase/world-illustration-awards-2022/tough-topics