I have no formal training in Art.

In 2002 I wanted a change in my life, and I started taking Art lessons after hours. I became determined that I could earn a living as an Illustrator, and was convinced that this could only be achieved if there were no other distractions. I embarked on developing a portfolio.

Around the middle of 2002, to test the water, I started writing and illustrating flying stories.

Two different Aviation Magazines enthusiastically published and paid me, for all 18 of these, before I started getting more briefs for illustrating educational books, and the deadlines for both began to conflict.

Sometime in 2003 I presented my portfolio to Macmillan and Heinemann.

For the past four years I have been making my living exclusively from illustrating and artwork, and have done several or more artwork briefs for all of the following;

Collegium Educational Publishers;  David G. Lea (Nassou & Juta);  Heinemann; Jacana Media;   Macmillan;  Maskew Miller Longman,  Mmegi Publishing House;  Oxford University Press.

I have illustrated, or contributed to the illustrations of well over 100 educational books, and done cover art for 11 of these for Maskew Millar Longman, and 5 for Heinemann. I have been told that my work is very authentic African, and am often called upon when specific ethnicity is required.

I am constantly embarked on one course to the next, and whilst my illustrations are developed mainly in watercolour or associated mixed media, I have attended extensive Oil Painting courses, and have been commissioned to execute a number of these.

Rob Owen - 2008