Henri Kurlbaum
Henri is an English-German illustrator passionate about storytelling for all ages and draws inspiration from nature, mythos, and personal experiences.
About
Most of my work is the result of a lifetime of storytelling. I have always sought for a way to portray the ideas and characters that crop up from my daily artistic journey, including children’s books, comics, zines, product design and writing poetry. I read and write almost as much as I draw, and this always has influence in the way I work. Absorbing inspiration from my surroundings, interests and experiences results in almost too many original ideas!
I have a very flexible style of storytelling, using digital techniques to portray my children’s books and comics, whilst also thriving with wax pastels to draw the many creatures that run around in my imagination. I love incorporating traditional textures into my digital work. My favourite things to draw are mythological creatures and animals, but I love drawing the human experience too.
Something I am very passionate about is blending reality and mythos, and the existential with the mundane. I don’t shy away from displaying difficult topics in my work, but I enjoy the bright colour and light-heartedness in my children’s work as much as topics that uncomfortably touch on reality. Ultimately, my work is mostly character based and my aim is to connect with my viewers through my art and characters.
DJCAD x V&A collaboration
I drew inspiration for these V&A museum gift shop products from the Scottish bank notes depicting lesser-known Scottish fauna. I illustrated a vinyl sticker sheet to display these animals, as well as a 3D wooden standee showing an otter and a Dundee skyscape from the Tay.
“Red Boots” - cover and page excerpt
My first personal project of the year was to create a children’s book following Raccoon and Unicorn. They’re an unusual duo but would do anything for each other – even when Raccoon gets a new pair of boots that Unicorn is envious of!
“White Wolf, Black Stag” - cover and page excerpt
My second personal project was a graphic novel for 16+ readers. This follows a character called Wolf as he navigates addiction and the fear that comes with his hallucinations in a post-disaster city. However, as his roommate Stag is soon to find out, not all is as it seems in this world.
If you'd like to support me, I will have prints and stickers and originals available to purchase from my website soon - or don't hesitate to get in touch with me to discuss commission work! I would love to hear from you!