If you’re an author looking for an illustrator for a manuscript you’ve written, read this first.

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I’m an artist and illustrator who works from a sunny, plant-filled studio in Melbourne’s CBD.

My illustrations aim to evoke all the possibilities and imagination of childhood, whether exploring outer space, flying high at the circus, chasing dragons with friends or throwing a ball around a schoolyard.

In every narrative, my colourful characters play an active part in their own story, where children are encouraged to realise their own strengths and advocate for themselves no matter their background: discovering the fun of learning and finding new ways of doing things.

While I trained as an engineer, I realised my true love of books and learning working as a librarian at university libraries. After completing my illustration course, I’ve has since exhibited in group and solo shows throughout Melbourne. Today as an artist, I gain inspiration by simply walking in nature – whether drawing the textures and patterns found in local botanic gardens or the intriguing details on a shelf of potted plants. It’s this curiosity about people and the natural world I aim to bring to my work, from children’s books to character design and unique educational materials.

My wish is to illustrate:

• picture books, both fiction and non-fiction

• middle grade book covers and internals

• book covers for young adult and older

I’d also love to see my work licensed for greeting cards or other products. Not much really…

If you like something in my portfolio, email me,
hilary[@] essayer.com.au, I'd love hear from you.

Clients include:

• Private commissions

• Wild Dog Books

• Australian Investment and Securities Commission (ASIC)