I’m a British children’s book illustrator based in the quaint seaside town of Churchtown, UK, where I live with my partner in a much-loved Victorian fixer-upper.

My days are spent in my cosy, colourful studio, surrounded by sketchbooks, decorated bookshelves, and a few dramatic houseplants! I illustrate both traditionally and digitally, often blending the two together. My work is full of charming characters and vibrant, detailed, imaginative worlds.

Over the past six years, I’ve illustrated over 30 children’s books and counting. It’s been a joy and a privilege to help tell so many wonderful stories, and the magic of it never wears off! I find endless inspiration in the natural world and often take creative breaks to explore local beaches, parks, and woodlands. I usually have a sketchbook in hand and my head in the clouds, dreaming up my next creation.

When I’m not drawing, I’m either writing for my Substack publication, reading, sipping tea, or gently trying (and mostly failing) to befriend the neighbour’s cats. One of the most exciting moments in my career so far was becoming the new illustrator for Dame Jacqueline Wilson. It was a complete childhood dream come true, and I still pinch myself over it!

Right now, I’m especially enjoying working on middle grade fiction and picture books. If you’re looking for an illustrator to collaborate with on your children’s book, my agent at Pickled Ink would love to hear from you!

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📩 Charlie Bowden: charlie@pickledink.com