About Me:
I am an artist and a Children's Picture Book illustrator and writer, interested in poetry, mindfulness, kindness and environmental issues.
I live in a small village in West Norfolk UK.
I graduated with a distinction from the Cambridge School of Art (Anglia Ruskin) MA in Children's Book Illustration, Cambridge UK in February 2019, and thereafter signed with the delightful folk at Scallywag Press in May 2019.
Our first project together - a book which explains the effects of plastic pollution, and encourages engagement on what can be done about it is called the "The Tale of the Whale". It is written by an amazing author Karen Swann, and illustrated by me. It will be in bookshops in the UK, US, Australia, Slovenia, and Turkey (among other places) early 2021.
NOW AVAILABLE TO PRE-ORDER!: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-tale-of-the-whale/padmacandra/karen-swann/9781912650491
School and Library Visits/ Workshops, online and in person (where appropriate): If you are involved in a school, library, environmental group or kids art group, I am available for visits to talk about the Tale of the Whale, and about the process of creating a picture book. This can be combined with art or craft activities, or combined with a beach cleanup, or exploration of environmental issues.
Contact by email here
Book Two in the Pipeline!
I'm excited that we are now in the process of a second book (text this time by me!). Watch this space!
My life as an artist
I also love to create one off pieces of artwork.
I can often take commissions, or sell prints or originals of work that I show on my instagram page
(To keep up with my most current work, please visit my instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/padmacandrameek )
Stories and Poetry
I've always had a interest in poetry, and love writing stories and verses for children (and adults). My poetry has been published in magazines, and I've also been involved in editing a buddhist poetry anthology "The Heart as Origami" (Rising Fire Press) and for many years was poetry editor of Urthona arts magazine.
For many years I have taught or been involved in writing workshops as part of the "Wolf At The Door" team.
Mindfulness and Loving Kindness
Padmacandra (pronounced "Padmachandra") is a name that was given to me when I was Ordained as a Buddhist. I have taught and practiced meditation for many years, and hope that in some way this flavours or will flavour my illustration work for children.
* * * * * * * * * *** *** *** *** *** ***
Links of relevant projects/groups I am involved or aligned with:
Scallywag Press
Cambridge School of Art
wolfatthedoor.org
Urthona: Journal of Buddhism & the Arts – Essays on Art, Poetry and Literature as tools for spiritual transformation
http://mindfulnessinschools.org/courses/paws-b/
led meditation https://youtu.be/IoCZ1DNM090