I’m a self-taught artist and illustrator that makes cute, colourful cartoon and comic book inspired work.  Born in South Shields I am 35 this year and I have always loved drawing and creating cute and happy characters.  As well as working in retail, I have been self-employed as an artist and illustrator selling my work and attending comic book and pop culture conventions since 2013.

I was heavily inspired by the bright and colourful animation styles of western cartoons and comic books as well as Japanese animation and characters especially those in Japanese style of ‘kawaii’.  I learned to draw from redrawing the characters from covers of Disney VHS tapes and comics during the 80s and 90s.  While in college I found myself introduced to more comprehensive digital design software and I taught myself how to use them make my own bright and bold artwork and characters.

I now primarily work in a digital format but all of my work begins with hand drawn sketches and I still work heavily in traditional mediums with ink, markers, watercolour and acrylic paints, taking inspiration from animals, food and everyday objects to create fun and colourful characters.

If you would like to get in touch with me about anything please contact me via my email address: katie@katiewhiteart.com