About

Creative education is a dynamic approach to learning that emphasises imagination, curiosity, and self-expression. Rather than relying solely on traditional methods like rote memorisation or rigid testing, creative education encourages learners—especially children—to engage with content in interactive and meaningful ways. It values process over perfection, questions over answers, and expression over conformity. By integrating the arts, storytelling, play, and hands-on exploration into education, this method nurtures problem-solving skills, emotional intelligence, and a lifelong love for learning.


In this blog, I’ll be focusing specifically on children’s educational books as a powerful tool within creative education. These books are more than just learning materials—they are visual experiences that teach through both text and illustration. Whether it’s a story that introduces maths concepts through playful characters or a picture book that explains emotional well-being through colour and metaphor, illustrations help children connect with ideas on a deeper level. The visual elements support understanding, spark imagination, and make complex topics accessible and fun. Throughout the blog, I’ll explore how illustrators shape the way children learn through visual storytelling and how illustration can turn a simple lesson into an engaging and memorable journey.


Professional illustrators who work in the field of creative education often collaborate with publishers, authors, educators, or even educational organisations to create content that’s both visually engaging and informative. Their role goes beyond making things “look nice”—they have to communicate ideas clearly, connect with young audiences, and support learning goals through their illustrations. These illustrators usually work with: Children’s book publishers, Educational publishers (e.g. textbooks, workbooks, and learning resources), Museums or galleries creating learning materials, Apps and digital platforms focused on learning, schools or curriculum developers (sometimes directly) and Authors and writers working on educational content. Illustrators in this field receive briefs that are often quite structured. A brief will usually include: The target age group (which influences style and complexity), Educational objectives (what the child should learn or feel), Tone and theme (playful, serious, scientific, emotional, etc.), Specific scenes or visuals needed (like diagrams, storytelling sequences, or interactive elements) and Format and technical specs (page size, colour requirements, space for text, etc.) Even with these guidelines, there’s often room for the illustrator’s own creativity—especially in how they interpret abstract ideas visually or develop engaging characters and scenes.

Many illustrators in creative education start by building a portfolio focused on children’s or educational work. Some come from graphic design or fine arts backgrounds, while others study illustration specifically. Over time, they might: Get commissioned by larger publishers, Create their own books or series, Collaborate long-term with writers, Branch into teaching, workshops, or public speaking, Work across different mediums, including animation, interactive books, or digital learning platforms. Some illustrators, like Marion Deuchars and Eric Carle, even become authors of their own content—giving them more creative control and recognition in both the art and education worlds.