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Illustrator and Writer

Hello! I'm Carys, a London-based illustrator specialising in children's books, live portrait events, and illustration for brands. Whether you've got a picture book to illustrate, an event to make memorable, or a brand that needs more character - I'd like to hear from you.

To hear more about my life, writing and work, sign up for my newsletter, Adventures With A Pen.

Clients include

I'm a sketchbook addict

Everything I make starts life in my sketchbook. I draw from life — on the tube, in parks, at events, even at the dentist — and that practice is at the heart of my work: the children's characters, the live portraits, and the brand work.

What I do

Children's books

My first illustrated book 'The Curious Cat and the Lord Mayor's Show' was commissioned in 2023 by The Lord Mayor of London. My project 'The Day the Dragon Came' was longlisted for the DPictus Unpublished Picturebook Showcase in 2025.

If you're an agent, publisher, or self-publisher, I'd love to hear from you — a rough idea is enough to start a conversation.

See my portfolio

Live illustration and portraits

I draw portraits live at weddings, markets, and corporate events - giving guests something made specifically for them, to take home on the day. I've drawn at Maple Road Market, Horniman Market, Open Art Fair, and for It Takes A Village events, among others. Good for any occasion where you want something unique.

Let's chat

Corporate and brand work

I work with brands who want illustration that has some real character to it. Clients include Tottenham Hotspur, Zoetis, Clean Break, and the Lord Mayor of London's office. Campaigns, editorial, events, brand identity - I know how to deliver what you need with the right files, usage rights, and quick, friendly service.

Corporate enquiries

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Personal commissions

Sometimes you want something made especially for someone - a pet portrait, family illustration, wedding gift or nursery artwork.

I've made hundreds of these over the years, and I love making unique gifts that people will really treasure.

Create your piece

Join my newsletter about drawing

I write Adventures with a pen — about illustration, sketchbooks, and what happens when you spend a lot of time really looking at things. Irregular but worth it, apparently.

How drawing from life changed how I see the world

I expected it to improve my drawing skills. But all of the other, even more transformative things it gave me were completely unexpected...

Read on Substack

Oh wow! We have just unpacked our boxes… the book is exquisite. Completely lovely. Thank you so very much.

Islington Primary School on 'The Curious Cat and the Lord Mayor's Show'

Got a project in mind?

I take on a handful of projects at a time, so it's worth getting in touch early - especially for books. But whatever stage you're at, drop me a message.

Get in touch