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Talented ECA illustration alumni Holly Sterling has been going from strength to strength since her graduation in 2013. She has illustrated two published picture books to date; Nativity Story and 15 Things Not To Do With A Baby, written by Margaret McAllister and published by Francis Lincoln. Her beautiful illustrations for the latter of these books has resulted in her being nominated for the 2016 CILIP Kate Greenaway award.
Hardworking Holly has a further six books set to be published next year. In addition to her illustration work, Holly frequently visits schools to hold drawing events and workshops, as well as giving talks to art college students.
A huge congratulations to Alumni Holly Sterling on the release of her new children’s book ’15 Things Not To Do With A Baby’. Her playful and vibrant illustrations sit perfectly with the text by award-winning author, Margaret McAllister. ’15 Things Not To Do With A Baby’ gives light, loving and humorous advice to new parents and siblings, for instance ‘don’t lend your baby to a kangaroo, plant your baby in the garden, or take to school with you – and definitely don’t send your baby to play with an elephant!’. This exciting collaboration is currently ‘Book of the week’ with the UK’s leading independent children’s book magazine, Books for Keeps.
Read the shining review from Ferelith Hordon below:
‘Her cheerful illustrations emphasise the underlying closeness of this family, turning what could be very difficult emotions into ones that can be handled with laughter. This effect is enhanced by her soft palette and chunky shapes. Her baby and his older sister bounce off the page with an endearing cheerfulness that demands a positive response. Here is an artist who, like Sarah Garland, is portraying a recognisable family with a freshness that is immediately attractive. The topic may not be new but the presentation is lively and engaging and establishes Sterling as an illustrator to watch.’
Holly Sterling has seen many successes during and following her time with us at ECA, achieving a Highly Commended for the Macmillan Illustration Prize and winning the Seven Stories/Frances Lincoln Illustration Competition in 2013. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for Holly’s flourishing illustration career.
