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Commissioned | Professional

Why did you make this work:
Working in collaboration with writer/producer Emma Bettridge and funded by Arts Council England to develop a story that deals with grief and finding joy in remembrance. The images accompany the story of Merlin whose best friend Hobbs has recently passed away. He does not want to get up or go out, but through his adventure Merlin learns what it means to love and lose and how to say 'Goodbye Hobbs'.

How was the illustration used:
Narrative Picture Book illustrations to accompany original text.

How did you make this work:
The images are made with ink, colouring pencil and watercolour, layering up colours and textures inspired by my love of printmaking. Mark making is used to evoke weather and give a sense of place as a joyful evocation of the great outdoors, whilst creating movement to carry the character through the pages.

Commissioner Name :
Emma Bettridge/Arts Council England
Commissioner Company :
Arts Council England

Social Media:
instagram.com/birch_press
@josephine_birch

Personal Website:
josephinebirch.net


Currently Based:
UK

Biography:
I studied for my postgrad scholarship at the Royal Drawing School and Illustration at Cambridge School of Art gaining a First class BA and MA. My work is underpinned by location drawing and I combine traditional methods from print to watercolour. My first picture book 'Selkie' was shortlisted for the Stratford Salariya Award. I lecture in Art/Design and am Associate artist at Coombe Farm Studios.