Represented by Jemiscoe Chambers-Black
at Starling Literary + Media
For queries please contact jemiscoe@starlingliterary.com
Hello!
I'm Crystal! I illustrate bright worlds to spark curiosity and wonder. (You can see for yourself—just take a look at the children's books I've illustrated over here!)
​
I am addicted to nature and neon. ​
​
Born in BC Canada (daughter of a lighthouse keeper), I'm a west coast girl who has also fallen for other places I've visited—like my love-affair with the desert.
​
My journey includes being trained in computer animation out of high-school, working for a decade in graphic design & marketing, and getting a BFA in visual arts.
​
Keep reading to find out more of my exciting adventure...​​
My parents were intrepid lighthouse keepers on a couple of very tiny islands near Prince Rupert (population nine) where groceries were delivered by helicopter and trips to town meant riding with the coast guard. I spent my first few years here!
Me in my dinghy cradle and rockin' my stylish sweater and boots!
My first camera (SLR) with real film!
I started searching for adventure and wild friends at a young age. As an illustrator, I've been thrilled to create environmental work for non-profits such as the David Suzuki Foundation & Parks Canada, as well as painting my own wildlife art. ​​​​(Check out some of my nature illustration in my portfolio.)
Wildlife and travel inspire my art and I'm incredibly happy roaming a museum for hours and hours. I hope to illustrate a lot more nature-themed kid's books along my journey!
Select Awards & Recognition
​
-
Junior Library Guild Selection
-
Starred review on The Horn Book
-
Best books of 2023 by The Horn Book
-
Best books of 2023 by CCBC
-
Recommended by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Kirkus Review and The Center for Children's Books
-
Shortlisted for the Christie Harris Illustrated Children's Literature Prize
-
Honor book for the Sheila Barry Picturebook Award
-
Finalist for the Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Canadian Picture Book Award
​
