It’s always nice to know more about the people behind the business, so this week we are introducing you to our very talented illustrator Jo!

Tell us a bit about your background.

I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in Surrey with beautiful countryside on my doorstep. I've always enjoyed being outside, whether it be walking, running or cycling. I went to Aberystwyth University (where I first met Lizzie) and studied Fine Art and Mathematics. I then went on to become a Maths Teacher, first in Oxfordshire, and now back home in Surrey. I took a year out travelling a few years ago and am so glad I did given the current situation! Was amazing to see Machu Picchu, the Great Barrier Reef, Mt Fuji, Angkor Wat.. I hope to get travelling again soon!

When did you start drawing and painting and what styles do you use?

I've been drawing as long as I can remember, I think it was in Year 3 when I did a copy of an Anglo Saxon piece of jewellery that I remember thinking 'oh, that's fairly good for a 7 year old!'. I doodled my way through secondary school, but was pretty frustrated with my Art courses - I felt very restricted and was only allowed to copy other Artists work.

It was only at University when I was finally able to work on my own style, and I particularly enjoyed experimenting with Intaglio printmaking. There are many artists I admire, but I think my style has been influenced by Edward Hopper, Samuel Palmer, John Tenniel, David Shepherd... among many others! As I haven't had access to a print studio since university I have focussed solely on pen and ink drawing, and experimenting with adding colour using watercolour. I guess I have 2 separate styles, either drawing from observation and trying to be as realistic as possible (like with Creature Candy) and then using my imagination to create illustrations for stories.

What inspires you in your own art work?

I do love to take inspiration from Children's stories, mainly because they have non-human characters and the settings for them tend to allow more creativity. I really enjoy the process of coming up with different compositions for a line from a book, and then gradually seeing it come to life.

How did you get involved with Creature Candy?

I responded to Lizzie's post on facebook for an artist, and was very happy when she liked my bat design! The whole concept was right up my street. I get to draw animals, which I love, and then as a bonus I feel great that we are supporting charities and helping to make a difference.

Which design have you enjoyed doing most for Creature Candy?

Ooo that's a tough one! I particularly love the red squirrel and the woodpecker design, but as a cat lover I did enjoy doing the Wildcat and the Tiger!

What are your future plans for your own work?

I am currently trying to come up with some illustrations for the second of Phillip Pullman's 'His Dark Materials', 'The Subtle Knife', but it's hard to find time between full time Maths teaching and drawing for Creature Candy!