My major project, The Gardening Angel, represents the culmination of my learning and creative development throughout my degree. The project brings together my interests in illustration, storytelling, and environmental awareness through the creation of a children’s picture book aimed at readers aged 3-5. Over the course of the project, I have refined a distinct visual language that combines painterly watercolours, digital collage, and natural motifs to communicate warmth, empathy, and care for the environment.
My progress to date reflects significant growth in both my technical ability and conceptual confidence. I have developed strong narrative and visual coherence within the book, ensuring that each spread contributes meaningfully to the story themes of kindness and respect for nature. Research into children’s literature, environmental education, and visual communications has informed my creative designs, helping me balance storytelling clarity with aesthetic depth. Regular self evaluation, tutorials, and feedback have guided my refinement of character design, composition, and colour palette, ensuring a professional and engaging final outcome.
In preparing for the completion and presentation of my work, I am focusing on curating a cohesive online and (maybe) physical portfolio. My portfolio website will present The Gardening Angel alongside supporting materials, including developmental sketches, storyboards, and surface pattern designs, to show the full creative process. I am also preparing printed materials and mock ups for an exhibition style display, ensuring consistency across my branding and presentation style.
Looking ahead, my plan is to finalise the books layout and typography, optimise visuals for both print and digital formats, and present the finished project as a polished professional portfolio piece. This project has not only solidified my identity as an illustrator and storyteller but has also strengthened my aspiration to continue to develop children’s picture books that inspire and care, ignite thier imagination, and connection with the natural world.
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