Gouache/Watercolor Illustrator for Children’s Picture Book
Budget: £450 – £900 GBP
I am seeking a skilled illustrator specializing in traditional gouache or painted media to bring to life a gentle, first-person picture-book memoir told through the voice of a girl who experiences the world differently. The story centers on themes of identity, belonging, and being seen, conveyed through calm, child-centered everyday moments at home, school, church, and within her wider family.
The tone of the book is warm, grounded, and respectful, avoiding sentimentality or busy visuals. Illustrations should extend meaning beyond the text, often showing what words leave unsaid. The main character is of African heritage and must feel real and consistent throughout the book—expressive through movement and posture rather than exaggerated facial expressions.
Key Requirements:
- Traditional gouache or painted media with a textured, matte finish.
- Ability to depict expressive body language and movement while maintaining subtlety and realism.
- Experience illustrating children’s books or similar projects with themes of identity and belonging.
- Visual storytelling that incorporates themes like music, rhythm, nature as regulation, calm adult presence (support without intervention), and belonging without spotlighting.
- A mix of quiet, minimal pages alongside fuller scenes to reflect rhythm and stillness in the narrative.
Tone & Approach:
- Warm, grounded, realistic.
- Joyful without sentimentality; calm rather than busy.
- Respectful and dignified; faith-aware but not symbolic or preachy.
Budget: £900 (open to review based on proposals).
Submission Details:
Please submit your bids within 5–7 days along with:
1. A portfolio showcasing relevant work (especially hand-drawn gouache/watercolor illustrations).
2. Your preferred working style (e.g., communication approach, revision process).
This project prioritizes illustrators ready to take on the full scope of work with a clear understanding of its tone and themes.
The tone of the book is warm, grounded, and respectful, avoiding sentimentality or busy visuals. Illustrations should extend meaning beyond the text, often showing what words leave unsaid. The main character is of African heritage and must feel real and consistent throughout the book—expressive through movement and posture rather than exaggerated facial expressions.
Key Requirements:
- Traditional gouache or painted media with a textured, matte finish.
- Ability to depict expressive body language and movement while maintaining subtlety and realism.
- Experience illustrating children’s books or similar projects with themes of identity and belonging.
- Visual storytelling that incorporates themes like music, rhythm, nature as regulation, calm adult presence (support without intervention), and belonging without spotlighting.
- A mix of quiet, minimal pages alongside fuller scenes to reflect rhythm and stillness in the narrative.
Tone & Approach:
- Warm, grounded, realistic.
- Joyful without sentimentality; calm rather than busy.
- Respectful and dignified; faith-aware but not symbolic or preachy.
Budget: £900 (open to review based on proposals).
Submission Details:
Please submit your bids within 5–7 days along with:
1. A portfolio showcasing relevant work (especially hand-drawn gouache/watercolor illustrations).
2. Your preferred working style (e.g., communication approach, revision process).
This project prioritizes illustrators ready to take on the full scope of work with a clear understanding of its tone and themes.