Jo Davies

I have worked broadly within illustration since the early 80s combining interest in the processes underpinning the creating of imagery with continued image making and illustration.

Throughout my career I have used drawing as a springboard for ideas and created images across all areas of illustration within a broad range of commercial contexts. This means I have illustrated book jackets, children’s books textbooks for children, magazines, greetings cards, advertising as well as murals. A bit of everything really. Following my MA at Kingston University in 1997 I began to follow my interests in narrative and created books as an author-illustrator before taking a career break for motherhood in 2003. I have been invited to the Bologna International Books fair to join a panel advising on how to be successful in the highly competitive area of children’s books.

I am interested in keeping a sense of energy and tactility within my imagery and am keen to explore the use of pattern. My pictures often use subtle colours and I enjoy using detailed drawing alongside quite loose painting. I have been selected for international awards and exhibitions and am currently drawing portraits of major clients of illustration

For more than a decade I have been involved with the Association of Illustrators and I have worked closely to develop their publications, including the award winning “Varoom magazine.” I am co-editor of “Drawing - The Process” published by Intellect books, and have published articles dealing with many aspects of professional practice within illustration and have reviewed more than 20 books about illustration internationally.

I am currently working on a large rproject entitiled “Making Great Illustration” investigating the processes underpinning the creation of the most important work produced by illustrators internationally. I’ve been interviewing illustrators all around the world. about their work and the book I’m co writing will be published by A+C Black in 2011.

I have worked in Further and Higher education for many years and am enthusiastic about helping people to learn about drawing and illustration. I am currently Associate Professor in Illustration at the University of Plymouth and am involved on a national level in many activities to do with teaching and learning. I’m still passionate about illustration and intrigued about how it is made. I'm thrilled when students share this interest and believe it’s a privilege to be involved with other people’s journeys of discovery.