Henrique C. Rampazzo
Children's Illustrator
Who or what made you want to become an illustrator?
My desire to become an illustrator had been in my heart for a long time, but this desire turned into action when I was living in a Central Asian country and realized how children's books lacked visual quality and were unappealing to kids. From that moment on, I decided to dedicate myself to children's illustration, and since then, I have been on this long, challenging, yet satisfying journey filled with adventures and fantasies!
Where do you currently live and where did you grow up?
I live in Brazil in the city of Bauru. But throughout my life, I have lived in several cities and some countries. I had the opportunity to live in Venezuela, Guyana, Turkey, and Tajikistan. This provided me with a lot of cultural experience.
Was creativity part of your childhood?
Certainly, creativity was a part of my childhood; I always had to use my imagination to create my toys and stories in which my friends and I would engage as heroes or villains.
Have you always loved to draw?
Since I was little, I enjoy drawing. When I was a child, I used to copy other drawings while the teacher taught in the classroom; I know it wasn't right, but it was stronger than me.
How long does it take on average for you to finish a spread, from initial sketch to final colour?
For a spread, it takes me about a day, and sometimes a little longer, depending on the amount of details.
What do you do in your spare time?
In my free time, I play with my children, two little ones full of energy and creativity! Whenever I can, I love to watch a good crime series.
What is your favourite children’s book and why?
The Jolly Postman is one of my favorites. I love how the children's stories were incorporated into a single story in a very creative way, exploring more than a book can offer.
What advice would you offer someone just starting out as a children’s illustrator?
Draw, draw, draw, and don't give up on your dream!
What are some of your favourite subjects to draw?
I love drawing fantasy and adventure, everything that involves stories with monsters and warriors who conquer their fears to save the needy.
Animals feature heavily in children’s books – do you have a pet?
I love animals, especially dogs, but I don't have one; my boss (wife) doesn't like them. I'm still working on it!
