MOIRA RATCHFORD
Moira Ratchford is a freelance illustrator based in Norwalk, Connecticut, who specializes in illustrating children’s books and creating artwork for kids.
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CREATIVE STATEMENT
I'm an award-winning illustrator who creates vibrant, quirky animal and human characters across a range of emotions and experiences. Working in pencil, ink, and watercolor, then fine-tuning everything digitally for the best print output, my illustrations are humorous and heartfelt. With years of experience in graphic design, I also have expertise in book layout, print production, and the importance of successful collaboration with art directors, authors, and editors.
I'm continuously honing my skills and keeping up with the best of children's literature to develop new creative approaches. A recent client put it simply: "I would love to do another book with her!"
RECENT CLIENT
- Booksicals SEL & Literacy Through The Arts Program
Q&A
What was your favorite storybook as a child?
I loved all of Richard Scarry's books. He created superbly imaginative worlds and quirky animal characters, and there were always new details to discover upon re-reading his books.
Which authors do you admire most?
Vashti Harrison's aching quest for acceptance in Big, Marie-Louise Gay's authentically quirky characters, the quiet courage of Jacqueline Woodson's The Day You Begin, Ian Falcone's sassy icon Olivia, the heartfelt reflections of Peter Reynolds, and the snarky vibe of the Lone Wolf series by Kiah Thomas.
What characteristics really bring a children’s book to life?
The most important thing is for a child to connect emotionally with the characters. When a child feels seen, heard and valued throughout the story, that's a home run. To make that connection, my hand-drawn, organic lines and rich, textured watercolors convey human authenticity and goofy imperfection, and are a much-needed antidote to the veneered sheen of AI's encroachment.
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