Hello, I am a freelance illustrator living and working in London with a studio on board my Dutch barge on the river Thames. I have lived on boats for the best part of the last nine years and this has provided a community in the city and lots of inspiration. Most of 2021 was spent on the river Orwell in Suffolk where I learned more about boat building, barges and river wildlife, before returning by sea to the city.
I illustrate books for children and teens, draw at events, make maps and travel with my sketchbook. My work focuses on bringing subjects to life. Utilising the medium of ink, charcoal and pencil I create drawing that capture movement and purpose through free, fast mark—making.
For the last few years I’ve been working with publishers Child’s Play and Barrington Stoke on several exciting book projects, illustrating for a middle grade to teenage audience. Beyond the publication of these books I have had the chance to travel to schools and festivals – including Hay and Edinburgh Book Festival – putting on storytelling events, live drawing and creative workshops for all ages.
If you have a project you’d like to talk about please get in touch.
emmashoard@gmail.com | (+44) 7963214850