Illustrator, Storyteller & Picture Book Maker

Working primarily in gouache and coloured pencil, Catherine creates richly detailed worlds filled with character, movement and small moments that capture imagination. Her illustrations invite you to look closer, whether that means following a character through a busy scene, discovering hidden details in a spread, or getting lost in the atmosphere of a place that feels both familiar and magical.

Her work is rooted in a lifelong fascination with picture books, writing and the strange, wonderful business of being human. She draws inspiration from creaky museums, literature, dance, the natural world and the everyday moments that would otherwise go unnoticed. She is particularly drawn to stories about friendship, history, culture and connection, and projects that give children a reason to look at the world differently.

Alongside her illustration practice, Catherine is interested in building a sustainable creative life. She writes about this through The Artists Attic newsletter, sharing her ongoing exploration of creativity, becoming and the art of cultivating an extraordinary life.

She is also passionate about community. Catherine co-hosts Drawn In, Manchester’s illustration meet-ups in partnership with the Association of Illustrators, and Sketch & Cafe, a regular gathering for artists to draw, talk and share ideas.

Her love of making things is occasionally interrupted by tea, staring out of the studio window, and experimenting with new ramen recipes.

Catherine is represented by Freddie Dawson at The Plum Agency, and is a member of Children's Book North.