Hello! Welcome to Zara Katrina Illustrates. In my shop you will find a range of my original illustrated gifts. All of these images are created by hand using a mixed media approach. I often start my illustrations with a simple sketch (from an idea I have) and then I make many more sketch studies, before I begin using to produce my illustrations. I use mostly use gouache paint (as I love the thick, vibrant colours it produces) and I also work with colour pencils and inks. 

My illustrations are inspired by my love of nature. Growing up on the South coast I love nothing more than going out for a beach walk with my family and my dog Marple. I also love the woods too. I was once a Forest School Teacher (and before that a Primary School teacher for over twenty years). I love to sketch outdoors too and use this as inspiration for my work.

I am also inspired by my childhood experiences and travelling-having lived overseas in three different countries. My illustrations are in a ‘picture book’ style and celebrate nature, nostalgia and the simple joys in life. But I am a homebody too and love to cosy up and paint at home, or read a book beside the fire with Marple.

If you’d like to find out more about my work I have several social media sites where you can see more of my work and learn more about my inspiration. I post my work regularly on instagram @zarakatrina_illustrates.com

I also have a website, which contains a portfolio of my illustrations, details about my shop, my art process and importantly how to commission me!  Please see below:

https://www.zarakatrinaillustrates.com/  

And, I particularly the Autumnal season  with all it’s orange, browns and yellow hues. Who else loves the Autumn? It feels like a slowing down after busy summer holidays, a time to carve pumpkins, cook pumpkin cakes and create autumnal inspired creations. 

I have recently joined The British Craft House after applying, and have found it to be such a warm, welcoming platform. It has such an array of skilled crafts people on board I am honoured to be here. It feels like you are walking into a high shop with beautifully displayed hand made arts and crafts. The type of shop where you always receive a warm welcome (albeit an online one).

I am so happy you’ve decided to visit my shop- thank you so much! I have an array of illustrated gifts and I also am happy to work with you on bespoke, personalised illustrated commissions. Please have a good look around my shop (and website). And please don’t hesistate to message me if you have something in mind you’d like illustrated, I’d love to hear from you ..