2025 | Children's Publishing
| Professional
- pronoun
He/Him - Why did you create this work?
These illustrations are from a series of children's books called Vlad: A Flea in History which are picture books intended to teach children about particular moments in history by fully immersing them in a narrative story that is as historically accurate as possible using fun relatable characters. My ambition was to make the most up to date illustrations of the Mary Rose and life aboard the ship currently available, using the expertise of the museum and their resources. - How were your illustrations used?
The primary use of my illustrations was the picture book which has since been published and is sold through the museum shop. The illustrations are also used for educational purposes, being used in teaching resources and schools as well as for the overall Flea in History series in promotional material and merchandise. - What materials and techniques did you use?
My illustrations were all hand painted using ink and watercolours as well as gouache to embellish certain details. After scanning I edited in Clip Studio Paint using an XP-pen tablet to clean up, accentuate the shadows and to make some major changes in response to feedback from the museum. - Was this project commissioned?
Un-commissioned / Self-initiated - Personal Website or Portfolio Link
samcunninghamart.com/portfolio
- Instagram
@samcunninghamart - Biography
Sam Cunningham is a London based illustrator who graduated from the University of Gloucestershire in 2020 and has since worked as a children's book illustrator largely for the Flea in History series which he co-created with Kate Cunningham. Together they have produced 7 books in the series which provides a flea's perspective on major moments in history. Sam also illustrates for an older audience in his comic book work such as in his forthcoming zine Fish Mermaid Chicken. - Where are you currently based?
United Kingdom (UK)
