Meet Gaia the giraffe of team - Animals Galore...

Gareth has always been creative and was keen on art in his youth.

Recently, though, after creating the 'I Can't Draw ' series, he has rekindled his love of illustration through learning how to use digital art platforms.

Gareth will still be working alongside industry professionals for his children's stories.  However, he has decided to have a go at illustrating his own book this year under the working title - Stripy Super Seven.

The story has already been written, but as he is still learning the craft of digital art, it may be some time before the book is finished.  However, he is keen to show others, especially young people, that anything is possible, and mistakes are a great thing in pursuit of something you love.  Gareth loves art, be it with words, illustrations, or music, and will be learning how to create new things throughout his career.  Moreover, he will be posting videos and pics of his progress for all to see, in the hope that he will inspire others to pursue something new that they have an interest in.   

Gareth's words:

 "The word 'mistake' can seem ominous, so people fear making them.  Try and alter the way you perceive the word 'mistake',  as it merely means that you have learned something new.  A mistake is a lesson, and knowing how to succeed ultimately means you have to know how to fail.  I will continue to try new things; I am not afraid to make mistakes, because every time I make a mistake, I know that I have become better at something."

Below is a piece of concept art for one of the animals in the mixed animal football team - Animals Galore.  They face off against an all-tigers team - the Stripy Super Seven.   The story is longer than the average children's picture book because Gareth has a unique storytelling style, and doesn't always follow typical tropes and conventions,  Additionally, the illustrations will be done by Gareth, so it will be interesting to see how the final book will turn out.  The story itself is a metaphor for pursuing dreams, breaking barriers, and overcoming fear.  Gareth also likes to interweave positive messages and metaphors throughout all his stories. 

Enjoy watching Gaia come to life.

 Gareth hopes you are looking forward to watching the book's creation videos and finally reading the Stripy Super Seven to your little ones.  

There will be an opportunity for you and your little ones to be involved in the production of the book, such as naming the animals and potentially voting on illustrations, so keep an eye out for these posts...