Illustrator (Children’s Book & Social Media Visual Designer)

About the Project

An original children’s book series centred on curiosity, adventure, kindness, resilience and lifelong learning. The books are intended to appeal initially to children approximately 8–11 years of age, with the characters and stories maturing as the series develops.

The first book will establish the visual identity of Riley, Gigi and the supporting characters, making consistency and thoughtful character development particularly important.

The Illustrator I’m Looking For

Technical illustration skills are essential, but they are only part of what I’m seeking. The ideal illustrator will also demonstrate:

• Strong original creative ability.
  
• A genuine interest in children’s storytelling.
  
• The ability to create memorable, emotionally engaging characters.
  
• Openness to feedback and collaborative discussion.
  
• Reliability and professional communication.
  
• An appreciation that consistent character development is critical when establishing a new series.
  
• Pride in contributing to an original body of work that has the potential to grow over time.
  

AI-Assisted Workflow

I recognise that modern illustrators may use AI-assisted tools as part of their workflow. My primary interest is not the percentage of AI used, but understanding the creative process.

The successful illustrator should be able to demonstrate that:

• Character design originates from their own creative thinking.
  
• Storytelling, emotional expression and artistic judgement remain their own.
  
• AI, where used, supports production efficiency rather than replacing original creative authorship.
  

Transparency regarding creative workflow is important.

Nature of the Engagement

The initial agreement relates specifically to the illustration of the first Riley and Gigi book.

If the collaboration proves successful, I would welcome the opportunity to discuss future books as separate commercial engagements.

My objective is not to commit either party beyond the first project, but to identify someone who would genuinely enjoy building book over time should the opportunity arise.

Tools Required:

• Any illustration or design tools the artist is comfortable with (e.g., digital or traditional mediums)
  
• Ability to deliver digital outputs suitable for print and social media
  
• Communication tools (e.g., WhatsApp, email, or similar platforms for regular updates)
  

Shifts & Hours:

• Flexible, output-based work (not time-bound)
  
• No fixed schedule or time zone requirement
  
• Workload will depend on project needs and illustrator’s pace
  
• Open to part-time or project-based engagement
  

Target Start Date:

• Flexible / Not urgent
  
• Hiring will proceed after careful shortlisting and portfolio review
  

Rate / Compensation:

• Project-based or output-based pricing (to be finalized with selected candidate)
  
• Example structure: rate per set of illustrations (e.g., per book pages or content batch)
  
• Opportunity for long-term, ongoing paid work
  

Additional Notes:

• This is a long-term opportunity (minimum 3-month commitment, with potential to extend to 1+ year)
  
• Illustrator will receive credit/recognition in published books
  
• The role emphasizes a collaborative, communicative, and flexible working relationship
  
• Ideal candidate values creative input, consistency, and storytelling impact
  
• Opportunity to become the primary illustrator for an entire book series