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About me

I am a children's book illustrator and character designer based in Durban, South Africa.
I have spent more than four decades drawing characters, creating imaginary worlds and bringing ideas to life - first within the gaming industry and, more recently, in the world of children's books. I also thrive in conceptual design for character development and that of environmental design.

Central to my approach is understanding the psychology behind a character - who they are, how they think, how they might react and what makes them definable. This understanding informs everything from posture and expression to the smallest visual details, allowing me to develop characters that feel distinctive, believable and full of character.

My illustration roots are firmly traditional, working originally in pencil before embracing digital illustration. Today I combine these skills to create expressive characters and richly imagined environments with a touch of humour and plenty of heart.

Before turning my focus to children's book illustrations, I enjoyed a long career in character and environment design with Derivco, a leading developer in the international gaming industry. My work ranged from initial character concepts and character development to highly finished artwork. I also mentored other artists in character design.

I currently work closely with authors to turn their words into visual worlds, developing characters from the first rough pencil sketch through to finished artwork and complete storybook scenes.

Away from my illustration work, I am an avid landscape gardener with a particular passion for rockscaping. My creativity also extends to interior design and creating beautiful spaces - whether on the page, in the garden or at home.

I am currently available for children's book illustration, character design and selected illustration commissions.

Details

AvailabilityLooking for work

ContractFreelance, Remote

LocationDurban, South Africa

Skill LevelSenior

LanguagesEnglish

Tagged Job TitlesIllustrator, Character Designer, 2D Artist

Recommendations

Currently No Recommendations

Skills

Brain storming, Cartooning, Character Design, Creative Direction, Digital Art, Illustration

Sector Experience

Gaming, Publishing

Clients

Bluebell publishers, Derivco, Derivco landbased, Microgaming

CV / Resume

Geraldine's CV/Resume

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Creativepool member since 24 August 2026

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Svetlana Malysheva

Digital Illustrator, Packaging Designer

Poland

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Photographer, David Brown Photography

United Kingdom

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Who likes Geraldine's work

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David Brown