Gemma is an illustrator from London. Much of her childhood was spent drawing and imagining stories but it wasn’t until her final year of her BA in Illustration at Winchester School of Art that she discovered the wonderful world of children’s books. She enjoys a playful approach to illustrating by experimenting with different media and thinking about the messages behind her characters and narratives. Her inspiration comes from nature, everyday life and her own childhood memories which help her connect with children today.
Rosie and Willow
Rosie is brave, outgoing and always pursuing adventures with her best friend Willow who is timid and quietly hopeful that this time it’ll just be a “small adventure.” Their journey takes them from their quiet home into the mysterious woods where their exploring and fun is suddenly interrupted… and Rosie disappears! This story is an updated adaptation of the Grimms fairytale ‘Jorinde and Joringle’ which used to follow the traditional formula of boy saving girl but now focuses on the friendship of two girls where Willow must rely on finding her inner strength and courage to save her best friend Rosie!
The Tigers on the Wall
Gemma was inspired to create her sequential narrative by a childhood memory of being afraid of the tigers on her wallpaper. As a child she was delighted with the opportunity to pick her own wallpaper and without hesitation chose a jungle border adorned with animals. But when it came to bedtime the tiger’s seemed to come alive… The story explores the realness of childhood fears as well as learning how to overcome them.
Contact:
Email: gemmascorner.thomson@gmail.com
Website: www.gemmascorner.com
Instagram: @gemmas.corner