MOIRA RATCHFORD

Hello! I'm a US-based illustrator known for my quirky, vibrant, perfectly imperfect characters. The judges who awarded me Honorable Mention in the Tassy Walden Awards for New Voices in Children's Literature said, "Moira has such wonderful characters in whimsical environments, one really can't help but get enveloped in a warm and cozy feeling."

I begin by creating my art in traditional media: pencil, ink, and watercolor, playing up the texture of the paper and the way the colors blend into each other. I create my elements separately and bring them together in Photoshop where I finalize the illustration. This approach marries the organic look of traditional media with the flexibility of being able to change things as needed.

With my many years of experience in graphic design, I'm well-versed in publication layout and the importance of successful collaboration with art directors, authors, and editors. I set out clear schedules and keep an open line of communication with my clients to ensure that they're completely happy with the results.

As for my personal life, I spent much of my childhood in France, am fluent in French, and dream of visiting all the mom and pop bakeries there one day. Having a brother with cerebral palsy, I grew up immersed in the disability community and continue to advocate for greater inclusion and opportunities. If you visit my home, you will be met by a feisty Pothos plant that is trying to take over the premises, and a pair of enterprising crows who have befriended me solely for the free peanuts.

I'm interested in illustrating picture books, book covers, educational projects, magazines, and children's products.