There’s a special naïve quality to Rebecca Gibbon’s work that is reminiscent of LS Lowry, but all the colour and activity in each image mean her artworks are perfect for children’s books, travel illustration, advertising campaigns, packaging and editorial.
Raised in Wales, Rebecca moved to Herefordshire after being based in London for many years. She collects children’s books, vintage tea towels, Galt toys and Scandinavian ceramics, all of which feed her imagination. Some of her favourite artists include Edward Ardizzone, Roger Duvoisin, David Gentleman and Miroslav Sasek.
Rebecca took her foundation course at the Cardiff School of Art & Design, followed by a BA in Graphic Design at Liverpool School of Art. After graduating, she took an MA in Illustration at the Royal College of Art.
Approach
Rebecca’s creative process begins with pencil sketching, looking for an idea that stands out. She paints very intuitively, making marks along the way, and the image will evolve on the heavy cartridge paper she uses. Acrylic inks form the base, and on top of that she draws with Caran d’Ache coloured pencils.
Style
Both contemporary and nostalgic vibes shine through in Rebecca’s work and her style is bright, painterly and colourful, with a naïve, childlike quality to it. There’s usually a touch of humour to round things off.
Awards
2009 Comstock Read Aloud Honor Books
2009 Amelia Bloomer Award
2009 American Libraries Association – Notable Children’s Book AwardClient list
Rebecca has built up an impressive list of global clients over the years. Some of the biggest names include Royal Mail, Thames & Hudson, Chicago Zoo, Citibank, Barnes & Noble, Penguin Books, Whittards, Vogue, The New Yorker and Paperchase.