Joining an Agency: Jonathan Emmerson

We recently chatted with Jonathan Emmerson, the St. Albans-based illustrator and printmaker. Having studied Fine Art at Birmingham Institute of Art & Design, he later began working in London as a digital designer. Jonathan has run printmaking workshops with both children and adults, and has experience in designing his own lovely fabric. His work is full of life and movement, with strong characterisation and a sense of fun.

Through the Association of Illustrators and also reading the Writers’ & Artists’ handbook.

I did the brilliant ‘The Good Ship Illustration’ picture book course, which was the catalyst for me sending an illustration submission to Bright. Once I got that initial offer from Bright, the process of joining was very smooth, and I was quickly made to feel really welcome and supported over Zoom.

Obviously I knew Bright had a great reputation and represented lots of illustrators I love, but the level of support and encouragement I’ve had from Bright is beyond what I expected. I'm very lucky to have Amy as my agent, who has been very supportive, always brings creative input and has really made things happen for me.

Publishers love seeing your sketch pads, however disorganised they are. It’s a great way to find out what they like and can also spark new ideas.

The high point would definitely be getting the call from my agent saying I’d been offered a two-book picture book deal - a very happy day!

The times when you’re waiting for news. I’ve found the best thing to avoid any self-doubt creeping in is to just start working on something else.

I’m working on my first author/illustrated picture book, so I’m really excited about making the best book I can. I’ve got lots of other ideas, and I’m hoping to see them realised too.

Jonathan is represented by Amy Fitzgerald. To work with Jonathan, please contact Amy here.