About Flo. The Happy Inky

After spending 25 years working as a graphic designer. One day, in 2016, I woke up and decided to follow the whisperings of my inky soul. I wanted to be a full time illustrator and illustrate wonderful, magical books for children. This has taken me on a long winding road to find my own working (style) which continues to develop. I self published my first picture book in 2017.

At present, I am working on 3 new picture books, inspired by personal experience. All are very different. Yes I like a challenge! My favourite illustrators are Eric Carle for his use of colour, texture and characters and Raymond Briggs who created the beautiful book "The Snowman". He is emotionally connected to his work, drawing on real life experience, this is why I find him so inspiring. I still use my graphic design skills daily. The industry is tough and deadlines can be very difficult, so having the creative time away from the Mac is essential for me. Also it's so important for me to spend time with other creatives, sharing ideas and work, this is something that every artist should try. I have met some really talented and inspiring people. This is one of the many reasons why I have set up The Happy Inky Workshop.

I know all about fear and lack of confidence but being able to communicate in an illustrative way is essential for my well being. I have become a strong believer in making your mark on paper. I had let technology take over for far too long. I do need the technology to produce the final piece of work to be printed, but tools do not always have to be digital. Until Robots do take over the world! I am in charge of my own ink! The creativity comes from deep within my inky soul.