Artists : Emily McCann

I was born in 1982, May 19.
When I was 4 my parents got called to the head master's office, as he had seen a drawing of a mouse I'd done and couldn't believe a 4year old child had done it! I always illustrated and wrote my own books as a child, and was fascinated by illustrators such as Beatrix Potter. As I grew up my interest in art developed, and I studied at A level, and at college before gaining a first class honours degree in graphic design - having specialised in illustration. I also won highly commended in 2003 for the Macmillan's children's book prize during my degree. I had a wonderful illustration teacher at university Jo Hamill who I have allot to thank for.


I have been working as an illustrator since graduation in 2004, having been 'spotted' by Hallmark cards Plc at the New Designers exhibition in London. I then worked as a graphic designer at a printers for a short while, but missed illustration so much I decided to go freelance and haven't looked back since.

I feel blessed, and incredibly fortunate that I am able to do a job I love so much that I would do it for free - and actually get paid for the pleasure. I know that this is a job that I will never tire of, and I hope one day to inspire other children who will read my books to go into illustration too.