John Bond is an illustrator, author and artist who lives and works in Worthing, on the south coast of the UK. He makes children’s picture books, including the acclaimed Mini Rabbit series, alongside projects for print, merchandise, campaigns and exhibitions.
WHAT DID YOU GET IN TROUBLE FOR AS A KID? ANYTHING ADULTS TOLD YOU TO AVOID THAT’S ACTUALLY A BIG PART OF YOUR LIFE NOW?
Smiling when being told off, and daydreaming. Both of my kids do the same and I feel like a huge hypocrite telling them not to.
ANY PERSON WHO REALLY HELPED YOU IN YOUR AWESOME ARTISTIC JOURNEY?
My mum was always my biggest fan.
LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE YOU WORK? ANYTHING SPECIAL IN YOUR WORK SPACE THAT UNLEASHES YOUR CREATIVE JUICES?
When I’m up against a deadline I love to listen to heavy metal (particularly some ‘80s/’90s thrash). I like the idea that a cute and colorful children’s picture book has been created through a cacophony of noise.
HAVE ANY SPECIAL TRICKS OR INSIGHTS INTO HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR AUDIENCE AND MAKE ‘EM RESPOND?
I think it’s always in the eyes. Big ol’ puppy dog eyes that draw the viewer in and make them empathize big time.
WHEN YOU GET A NEW PROJECT FROM BLUE Q, HOW DO YOU BEGIN? WHAT’S THE STARTING POINT?
There’s usually quite a clear concept or a piece of text that has to be visualized. After an initial briefing, I can jump straight into sketching. The team are open to lots of early explorations and then it’s a collaborative process of refining the best bits.
