Capturing the beauty of the wild
Violet Kelley’s deep connection with the natural world fuels her creativity and has secured her a children’s book deal
My inspiration comes from many places, but the natural world is a constant source of creativity for me. I love observing trees, birds, and wildlife—imagining their little lives, thoughts, and interactions. That often becomes the foundation for my illustrations.
Violet Kelley, BA (Hons) Illustration graduate
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BA (Hons) Illustration
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?Received a Highly Commended award in the Macmillan Prize for Illustration
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?Work showcased at the London D&AD exhibition
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?Secured a multiple children’s book deal with Flying Eye
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?Ambitions to become an established author and illustrator
Violet Kelley’s deep connection with the natural world fuels her creativity and has secured her a children’s book deal. Embracing new styles and maintaining an open mind, Violet has achieved a dream early on in her career.
Inspiring projects
I chose the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ initially because, when I first considered university, I was quite nervous and shy. I wanted something close by, but when I discovered Plymouth and its facilities, I was pleasantly surprised. They offered a wide range of resources, including unique ones like a Victorian ink press, which really excited me. The ability to have my own workspace was also a big draw; it allowed me to create a comfortable environment for my work, something I didn't find in other universities.
Plymouth offered a variety of projects, both set and self-initiated, and collaborating with classmates on group projects was a refreshing change from solo work.
Standout moments
One of my proudest achievements so far has been receiving a Highly Commended award in the Macmillan Prize for Illustration. It all started during my final year at university when we had a self-initiated project. I saw it as the perfect opportunity to develop an idea I had started in my second year—a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood where Red was a witch. The initial concept was created in just a few weeks, but I knew it had potential, so I spent months refining it with the support of my tutors.
I submitted it to the Macmillan Prize not expecting much, so when I found out last July that I had been highly commended, it was a complete shock! That recognition was a huge moment for me—it not only gave me confidence in my work but also led to an incredible opportunity. My submission was later showcased at the London D&AD exhibition, where the co-founder of Flying Eye Books saw it and reached out. That eventually led to a three-book deal, which is still surreal to me!
I’m so proud that I took the chance and put my work forward. It reinforced that hard work and dedication can lead to amazing opportunities, even when you don’t expect them.
During my time at university, I worked on so many projects that I truly enjoyed, but two stand out as the ones I’m most proud of.
One was a lizard mask that I created entirely by hand. It was an ambitious project—intricately beaded, embroidered, and incredibly time-consuming. I pulled quite a few all-nighters to finish it, but in the end, it was so worth it. Seeing the final piece come together was a real sense of achievement, especially because textile work is such a labour-intensive process.
Another project that meant a lot to me was a mural I helped create for a hospital in Exeter, specifically for a dementia ward. The space felt quite bare and in need of something uplifting, so we worked on a large-scale piece to bring warmth and colour into the environment. Knowing that our artwork could brighten someone's day, even in a small way, was an incredibly rewarding experience.
Support and guidance every step of the way
The teaching staff at Plymouth were incredibly supportive. Over the years, I encountered various mentors specialising in different fields like animation and storyboarding. Their diverse expertise enriched my learning experience, and I always felt encouraged to ask questions and seek guidance throughout my degree. They truly made my academic journey enjoyable and fulfilling.
During my time at university, the support available was incredible. We had regular tutorials—sometimes up to three times a week—where we could discuss our work, but beyond that, the lecturers made it clear that we could reach out anytime via email or in person. That openness was really valuable, especially when the workload became intense.
One of the biggest challenges was writing a dissertation. As a creative person, shifting into a more academic writing style was a bit of a shock. However, there was plenty of support, both from our lecturers and from resources in the library, where staff were available to guide us through the process.
Even after graduating, the support didn’t stop. I’ve stayed in touch with my lecturer, Ashley Potter, who has been incredibly helpful. He provided me with a reference for a job application and offered guidance when I secured a book deal with Flying Eye. Navigating that part of the industry felt daunting, but having his advice made all the difference. The support I received at Plymouth extended far beyond my time as a student, which has been invaluable.
Bridging the gap between people and nature
My inspiration comes from many places, but the natural world is a constant source of creativity for me. I love observing trees, birds, and wildlife—imagining their little lives, thoughts, and interactions. That often becomes the foundation for my illustrations.
I’ve always been drawn to anthropomorphic art, where animals are depicted doing human activities. I think it’s a charming way to bridge the gap between people and nature, especially in a time when we can sometimes feel disconnected from the natural world.
I’m also hugely inspired by other artists, particularly Júlia Sardà . Her book The Queen in the Cave (2022) is a constant reference point for me—her whimsical, beautifully detailed illustrations always spark new ideas when I need inspiration. I’d love to see her sketchbooks and process!
Beyond that, I have a deep appreciation for history, Gothic architecture, and period fashion, which often influence my work. I enjoy exploring different art movements and weaving historical or folkloric elements into my illustrations. Folk stories are another major source of inspiration—I love reinterpreting old tales, especially those without existing illustrations, and giving them a visual identity.
These elements all come together to shape my creative process, making every project an opportunity to blend the past, nature, and imagination into something new.
Advice for future illustration students
It feels a little strange giving advice when I’m still at the beginning of my own journey, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s not to put yourself in a box. Everyone says it, but it’s so true—illustration is like a tree with so many branches to explore. There are endless styles, techniques, and mediums, and it’s important to stay open to experimenting.
When I first started university, I was quite set in my ways, sticking to what I knew and felt comfortable with. But stepping outside that comfort zone led me to discover things I now love. In my second year, I explored textiles and embroidery, something I hadn’t considered before, and then in my final year, I returned to painting. If I hadn’t been open to new experiences, I probably wouldn’t have pursued children’s book illustration, which ultimately led to my book deal.
Stay curious, don’t take things too seriously, and try everything. Avoid putting too much pressure on yourself—sometimes, that can hold you back from moving forward. Apply for competitions, take part in markets, collaborate on group projects, and put yourself out there. You never know where these opportunities might lead.
Anything can happen—I never expected to get a book deal, yet here I am! So, keep experimenting, keep learning, and see where your creativity takes you.
Looking to the future
I’d love to continue making books—right now, I’m really enjoying the whole process. If this first book goes well, I have two more lined up, which is exciting and gives me something to look forward to.
Beyond books, I’d also love to have my own little online shop where I can sell handmade crafts alongside my illustrations. I really enjoy creating things, not just drawing, and I’d love to share those small, personal pieces with others. It wouldn’t have to be anything big—just something simple that brings me joy and allows me to connect with people through my work. That would be really special.
Find your visual voice
Come and study in lively, purpose-built studios surrounded by other creative students and award-winning staff.
We will help you forge your visual voice to succeed in today's expanding creative industries.
You set your work in a global context through such activities as briefs centred on UN Sustainability Goals, study trips and taking part in the optional Global Exchange programme (including Japan) to gain new perspectives and broaden your cultural references.
