I have always enjoyed drawing from an early age, and remember spending a great deal of time making up miniature story books for my dolls. Being a shy child and avid bookworm, I probably developed my visual skills at the expense of my verbal, although I only became aware of this at a later age!

 I had a fascination for books like Struwelpeter and the intricate illustrations of Arthur Rackham’s Undine with faces eerily growing out of tree trunks in deep, dark forests. This is probably where my interest in pen and wash began. I also loved the fantasy world of  The magic faraway tree by Enid Blyton.

At school I would spend hours intricately illustrating homework projects ...usually at the cost of content!

My interest in cartooning was probably kindled at college and my first job in advertising. I then moved on to publishing gaining considerable experience in magazine design and creative interpretation of briefs, illustration, and cartooning.

With the arrival of my children, work followed me home where I have been freelancing ever since!

Working with Mast and their fresh, light hearted approach to school study and business techniques has taught me the value of humour. My experience working with another dynamic team, Jacana, has led me to more specific educational illustration with a South African flavour. I have begun specializing in children’s educational books and poster illustration in the last 10 years .

The materials I am currently working with are Pantone markers and blender fluid, which I find softens the harsh commercial feel of kokis. Although initially expensive I find they last for ages and I can mix my own colours using refills. I have found plain Photostat paper just as effective as more expensive paper and of course there is no buckling, and I can redraw using a light box, so this medium works well for me at this stage. I also enjoy black and white line work, and acrylics.

Julia du Plessis - 2008