Claudio Cerri
Children's Illustrator
Who or what made you want to become an illustrator?
Drawing is my medium for expressing what's inside me that I can almost never put into words. This led me to draw extensively from a young age, and over time, my passion turned into my profession.
Where do you currently live and where did you grow up?
I live and grew up in Italy, exactly in northern Italy, in a small town a few kilometres far from Milan. I love where I live, because I am surrounded by beautiful places, with lots of greenery and, as soon as I have some time, I love to walk through the countryside and the hills.
Was creativity part of your childhood?
To be honest, not really. It was adolescence that led me to become creative and seek an outlet for my emotions.
What was your first commission as a professional illustrator?
In Italy, I won first prize in an illustration competition, which led to a contract with a major Italian publishing house to create the illustrations for a book. It was 2011, and with that book, I can say my career as an illustrator gradually began.
Describe your working technique and how you came to perfect it.
I started working with traditional paints, specifically acrylics. Over time, I transitioned to digital to optimize my workflow and manage revisions as quickly as possible. I'm self-taught when it comes to digital art, and I began using it when there weren't many tutorials available online. So, let's just say I refined my technique through a lot of trial and error!
How many times do you tend to draw a character until you are happy with it?
I usually don't take much time. If I feel in tune with the character, it's like a sort of calling, as if the character is drawing me to them. I immediately picture them in my mind and start drawing.
Do you offer more than one style, if so – talk us through the different approaches and the audience you are targeting for each.
I love drawing for various age groups, from young children to preteens. Naturally, the visual result changes depending on the age. For a book aimed at younger children, I usually use bright colors and simple perspectives. As the reader's age increases, I use more complex color palettes, richer perspectives, more dynamic compositions, and more detailed anatomy.
Have you ever thought about trying out a different technique or a different style?
When I get the chance I like to experiment and introduce something new to my style.
Which 4 words would you use to describe your illustration portfolio?
Colorful, fun, charming, varied.
Outline your dream project.
I've been thinking about working on a comic book for a while now.
Which area of children’s publishing excites you the most?
Early reader and picture book.
What things affect your creativity?
Reading, music and film.
When you are not drawing, how do you like to relax?
Walking in nature, or listening to music on my bed with my headphones on :)
If you weren’t an illustrator, what would you be doing?
I cannot imagine doing anything other than being a illustrator.
What are some of your favourite subjects to draw?
Anthropomorphic animals.
Animals feature heavily in children’s books – do you have a pet?
Yes, two beautiful cats, Ugo and Camilla!
