Chris Saunders is a bestselling author and illustrator originating from the North-East, UK. He graduated with first class honours from The University of Northampton, later becoming a lecturer of Illustration at The Northern School of Art, Hartlepool.

 

Chris predominantly works within the field of children’s publishing, having written and illustrated several internationally successful picture books, published in over 20 languages. His debut picture book ‘Wish’ was published in 2019 by Quarto Publishing and was sold in Waterstones. Chris’s notable works include the widely popular and well received titles ‘Believe’ and ‘Nowhere’, shortlisted for the Bertrand Book of the Year Award.

 

Represented by Astound.us, Chris regularly collaborates with clients on live commercial projects including book covers, education, licencing, and creative development for clients such as Scholastic, Quarto Publishing Plc, Hachette, Cambridge University Press, Jellycat Ltd, and other notable companies. Chris has illustrated two titles for Flowerpot Press, based on the work and lyrics of five-time Grammy Award winning American blues musician Keb' Mo'.

 

Chris is a storyteller, describing his process as being driven by curiosity, imagination, and narrative; supported and informed by a deeply rooted passion and respect for illustration. Chris’ creative practice combines both digital and analogue techniques, to produce detailed digital paintings that are developed from initial hand-rendered sketches and observations. His work is driven by narrative; translating an honest interpretation of his personal experience, and an expression of the world around us.