Hello, I’m Kyria and this is my Story as an Illustrator
A Childhood of Drawing, Dreaming, and Quiet Magic
I grew up in a small town in France, the kind where you could walk to school and wave to the same neighbors every morning. Some of my closest friends today are the ones I made back then. I wasn’t a huge reader, not in the traditional sense but I loved books. I loved the way they looked, the worlds they hinted at. I’d sit on the floor of the supermarket book aisle while my mum shopped, flipping through covers, soaking in the illustrations, imagining the stories even if I didn’t read every word.
Even now, I collect children’s books — especially the classics. I’ve always been drawn to those timeless, cozy, slightly magical stories. The ones that feel like coming home.
I think part of that came from the women in my family. My grandma was a watercolor painter, and I have such vivid memories of the cellar where she kept her paints, brushes, and stacks upon stacks of artwork. It felt like stepping into a treasure cave. My mum was a brilliant drawer too — when I was little, she’d draw ballerinas for me, over and over, and I’d watch in total awe. Her style felt so graceful and effortless that I honestly couldn’t imagine I’d ever draw like that.
But I kept drawing.
Not Art School… But Still an Artist
I didn’t go to art school. It too far and scary, literally and emotionally. So I studied graphic design instead. It was creative, it was practical, and for a while, it worked. I had various jobs, including a stretch in insurance, which paid the bills but left me feeling like something essential was missing.
Then I was made redundant. Scary, yes. But also… freeing.
That was the moment everything shifted. I started freelancing as a graphic designer, and gradually, I gave myself permission to explore illustration. No expectations. Just drawing for joy.
One summer in Normandy, I challenged myself to draw every day. I posted my illustrations on Instagram, not thinking much of it and then people started to respond. That summer became a turning point. I remembered what it felt like to be completely immersed in drawing, like I had been as a child. And I began to wonder: Could this be something more?
Building a Business That Felt Like Me
The first couple of years were creatively magical and financially terrifying. I loved the work, but I wasn’t sure how to make it sustainable. I knew I had to treat illustration as a business if I wanted it to last. So I studied. I learned about pricing, process, creative direction, all of it. And slowly, it started to come together.
Now, illustration is not only my passion, it’s my profession. I work full-time as a children’s book illustrator and that still feels incredible to write.
The Kind of Stories I Love to Illustrate
If you’re an author reading this, here’s what you should know: I’m drawn to stories that feel warm, heartfelt, and timeless. I love books with a touch of wonder, a sense of nostalgia, and emotional depth. The kinds of stories I’d want to keep on my bookshelf forever.
I don’t do slapstick or loud, giggly chaos. I love books that that hold meaning and beauty. That take their time and get your eyes to twinkle. If that’s the kind of story you’re writing, I’d love to hear about it. My favorite part of illustrating a book is getting to know the author, understanding the tone and heart of their story, and building something beautiful together.
A Collaborative, Careful Process
My style is soft, painterly, and atmospheric. I use light and color to guide the mood — warm golds for cozy scenes, cooler tones for quiet moments. But it’s not just about the visuals. It’s about collaboration. I want authors to feel seen, heard, and creatively supported throughout the process.
I don’t believe in cookie-cutter packages. Every story is different and I treat it that way. We talk, we brainstorm, we make changes as the story reveals itself more clearly. And the final book? It always ends up being more than the sum of its parts.
Beyond Illustration: A Home for Story Lovers
Alongside my client work, I’m slowly building a little world for story lovers and fellow creatives. Through my content, I share behind-the-scenes moments, favorite books, creative inspiration, and gentle encouragement for anyone walking a similar path.
If You’re Looking for an Illustrator...
…especially if you’re working on a story that feels precious to you — I’d love to chat.
Whether it’s your first children’s book or your fifth, I’m here for the authors who care deeply about what they’re creating. The ones who want a partner, not just a service. The ones who want to make something meaningful.
Let’s make something beautiful together.
