"Wonder shell", written by John Harbour,
published in 2023 by Orsorum
The watercolor illustrations I created for the children’s book Wonder Shell open a world of delicate landscapes where imagination intertwines with emotional depth. During the creative process, I immersed myself in the study of sea treasures, exploring the forms, textures, and colors of shells, uncovering the small stories and hidden rhythms of nature within each one. These observations became the book’s visual language, gentle, breathing, and filled with light.
At the heart of the story are a young boy and a dragon, two travelers discovering the power of inner transformation.In my watercolor illustrations, Through my artwork, I sought to capture the beauty and enchantment of a story that carries a profound metaphor: the emotional burdens we bear, like heavy stones, weigh us down until we learn to release them. My intention was to create something truly special for both children and adults: a visual journey that gently invites each viewer to reflect on their own inner world.
The setting of the book, a rugged and breathtaking English coastline, offered endless inspiration. Its ever-changing skies, jagged cliffs, and shimmering tidal pools served as the perfect backdrop to convey the protagonist’s journey.
Working in traditional watercolor allowed me to bring an organic, tactile quality to these images. Layering washes of soft blues, violet and sandy ochres helped evoke the soothing rhythm of the ocean, while fine details captured the textures of shells and stones, each carrying its own story. Combining this with modern composition techniques ensured the artwork felt fresh and engaging for today’s readers.
Some of traditional breakfast and sweeties:)
