Magical Authority: Kate Forrester Illustrates Encyclopaedias for Running Press

Ever wanted to be an authority on magical creatures? Well, you’re in luck. Running Press (Hachette) have commissioned Kate Forrester to illustrate a series of A-Z encyclopaedias for magical creatures. So far, Kate has illustrated Mystical Horses, Mermaids, Fairies and Mythical Woodland creatures. Hear her thoughts on her latest work below.

Did you have to change your approach when illustrating colour versus black and white?

It is actually unusual for me to be commissioned for black and white interiors as colour plays such a big part in my work and identity as an illustrator. But the process of working on these books has really opened up a whole new side to my work, not to mention a wild variety of subjects and creatures I have neever been asked to draw before!

Which is your favourite illustration?

I was surprised at how much I loved illustrating horses. Especially the stranger creatures like the Hippocampus – a mythical fish-tailed horse!

Did you find any parts challenging?

I found the whole job very challenging, but in a good way. It made me realise how much I use picture research and reference in my usual illustration work. But obviously there is no photo reference for these magical creatures so I had to rely much more heavily on my imagination.

Did you learn any interesting stories through the process?

SO many strange tales. Some of them are quite creepy! Like the NINGYO who are mermaids from Japanese folklore – they are very ugly and dangerous, with sharp fingers and their flesh is said to grant eternal life to those to eat it.