Embracing Creativity in Chaos

Life is a crazy journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes, the books along the way become milestones that define our path. For me, three particular books stand out, not just as professional achievements, but as profound symbols of my pig headed determination , creativity, and resilience. Each book was created under unique and challenging circumstances, shaping me into the person and artist I am today.

List three books that have had an impact on you. Why?

1. Motivate Man

The first book that profoundly impacted my life is “Motivate Man,” a children’s book I illustrated for YouTubers Elijah and Crumpet. This project is especially close to my heart because it represents my sheer determination to pursue my dream of illustrating a children’s book despite overwhelming personal challenges.

During the time I worked on “Motivate Man,” I faced the heartbreaking loss of both my parents. In addition to this emotional turmoil, we moved houses, and I juggled multiple responsibilities, including lawn mowing jobs and being a stay-at-home dad. Remarkably, I illustrated the entire book on my phone, seizing every spare moment between tasks. This book stands as a testament to the power of persistence and the belief that one can achieve their dreams, no matter the circumstances.

2. Super Scout

The second book, “Super Scout,” marks a period of intense upheaval and adaptation. As my family and I attempted to relocate to New Zealand, the global pandemic had other plans, leaving us stranded and without a home. In response to this unexpected situation, we purchased a school bus and converted it into a tiny home, settling in a small country town in Australia’s outback.

Illustrating “Super Scout” was a unique challenge. I often found myself working late at night at the steering wheel of our bus, creating art while my kids slept. The process was captured in livestreams on YouTube, offering a glimpse into our unconventional life and my dedication to my craft. This book embodies our resilience and adaptability, reminding me that even in the face of uncertainty, creativity can thrive.

3. Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet

The third book, “Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet,” signifies a period of intense busyness and creativity. After purchasing an art gallery café, my time was stretched thinner than ever. Between pouring coffees and making Reuben sandwiches, I managed to illustrate this personal passion project, capturing the essence of unusual animals in vibrant detail.

Creating “Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet” amidst the chaos of running a café is no small feat. However, this experience taught me the importance of seizing every available moment to pursue my passion. Despite the hectic pace of life, art became my sanctuary, allowing me to process grief, express myself, and attempt to be the best dad and husband I could be.

Reflecting on these three books, I realise that my journey as an illustrator has been anything but straightforward. Each project was born out of challenging circumstances, yet they also provided a creative outlet that helped me navigate through difficult times. There were countless excuses not to create, but I learned that the perfect time to make art never arrives. Instead, we must seize every day and create what we can, for it is through creativity that we find solace, strength, and a sense of purpose.

These books are more than just illustrations on paper; they are milestones of my life’s journey, marking moments of triumph over adversity and the relentless pursuit of my dreams. As I continue to create, I carry forward the lessons learned from these experiences, always striving to transform life’s chaos into art.