about

heather castles

illustration & design

I am a traditional & whimsical illustrator, with a variety of styles that lend themselves to designs that require storytelling. After studying in graphic design & illustration at the Alberta College of Art and Design and Capilano College, I gained experience in graphic design and illustration at a busy greeting card publisher in Cambridge, Ontario.

Over the years I’ve enjoyed continuing to work on interesting projects, including illustrating over twenty children’s books. Telling stories visually is a lot of fun, and I enjoy the variety of working whimsically in paint or pencil, to working traditionally in oils, acrylic or watercolours.

I love nature and conservation, so approach each project looking for opportunities to visually share the details of nature I find amazing, and with a thoughtfulness towards my work’s impact on the environment. While I use beautiful quality art materials to get the best results, I complement those with reclaimed and recycled materials in my art process and packaging. So don’t be surprised if a piece of art arrives to you packaged in paint splattered paper used to protect the table while working!

What I do
  • old-school painting & drawing
  • children’s book illustration & design
  • greeting card illustration & design
  • whimsical up-cycled vintage artwork
  • fine art commissions
  • private art classes (for individuals)
  • draw-together-classes for kids (for groups)