Laurel Aylesworth
Laurel is a published children's book illustrator based in Barrington, Rhode Island, where the coffee milk flows like a river and no one uses a blinker. Some of her illustrated books include: My House My Family, The Blue Canoe, and Chalk the Walk - all published by Familius Publishing. Laurel’s work can also be found in Cricket Media’s Babybug Magazine.
As an introverted kid growing up in Vermont, drawing came naturally to her. Instead of going to the mall like most teenagers, you would find Laurel in her room drawing scenes from Lord of the Rings or copying her favorite characters from Elf Quest comics or Arthur Rackham prints. Later, Laurel’s career path naturally led to graphic design, but something was missing (namely, Elves and magic). She found her calling as an illustrator after becoming a mother and hence, wading knee-deep in picture books from the library. Laurel is inspired by the books crafted by Eliza Wheeler, Guojing, The Fan Brothers, Kelly Murphy, Lee White, and other incredibly talented illustrators. She strives to bring a sense of mystery, magic, and tenderness to her visual storytelling. Laurel loves drawing stories that center around kindness, diversity, and strong female protagonists. She is also an LGBTQIA+ ally and welcome any stories that amplify their voices in the kid lit community.
Today, you can find Laurel still surrounded by picture books, sketch pads and pencils, her husband and two daughters, and a cup of jasmine tea at her side. Laurel is looking to partner with publishers to bring to life authors' children book manuscripts, Middle Grade book covers and black and white interiors. Her background includes 15 years as a graphic designer in print and digital media, so she thrives on deadlines, the creative process, and art direction. Laurel finds inspiration in her children, because they are slightly insane and provide endless facial expression reference.