An illustrator who honed her craft in Wrexham is using her art to raise funds for those affected by the war in Ukraine in a new book.
Glyndwr graduate Helen Robinson has helped put together a group of illustrators who have contributed work to the new book called ‘The Nightingale and the Bear’.
“We are at the stage of final artwork now and the book is looking wonderful,” she said.
“The range of styles makes it a wonder to behold, and it is a real book of kindness with busy illustrators all donating their time to help others in need!”
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Helen is originally from Yorkshire but now lives in Old Colwyn. She graduated with a first-class degree from Glyndwr in 2012 before completing an MA in Design Practice at the university.
During this time, she won a Cynnal Cymru award for a glass and ceramics installation that highlighted the issue of control and abuse.
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She formed her own company, Jaminosh Designs, in 2016 and two years later established the Kind Bay community initiative in Colwyn Bay, which support the vulnerable, the homeless and those suffering with mental health issues.
Helen fondly remembers her time at Wrexham Glyndwr University and said: “The standard of the teaching on the illustration degree was at such a high level.
“The three main tutors I had were Sue Thornton (children’s illustration) Yadzia Williams (general illustration) and Dan Berry (graphic novels), the combination of their experience and knowledge was superb and I still stay in contact with sue and let he know how I’m getting on.
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“When I illustrate, I hear her in my voice guiding me still – it’s quite surreal!
“The tutors encouraged me to be the best that I could be, to experiment and to step outside of my comfort zone and although I never class myself to be the best artist, I embrace my uniqueness and don’t feel the need to follow the crowd. I definitely feel this came from my time at Glyndwr!”
Helen is currently illustrating titles for Resilient Hedgehog, whose books are based on using a system that helps children to develop mental toughness and resilience. The latest project is called Resilient Creatures.
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The books have recently been on display at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, as well as the London Book Fair.
“For this series, I have had to work digitally which as a traditional illustrator has meant me learning new skills as I go along, but I have tried to use digital media with a traditional style, hoping to stay true to the work I have previously done,” Helen said.
“I feel that the foundation of learning that I had at Glyndwr stood me in good stead to be able to try new things and to be brave.”
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