Mark Wilson, Illustrator
Mark Wilson is a self-taught illustrator from upstate New York, where he lives with his wife, Nicole, and six children. His playful artwork is fueled by his love for whimsy, dinos, and timeless comics like Calvin and Hobbes. Mark loves creating fantastical worlds full of adventure and heart. When he’s not sketching or imagining new stories, he enjoys the wonderful chaos of raising his lively crew of future dinosaur wranglers.
Mark’s creations are the perfect balance of fun and form. He creates art in both lined and lineless forms. He really knows how to capture the essence of the character, with a focus on animals, aliens, robots, and sometimes…vegetables and emotional support ducks.
Here are some of my favorite stand-alone pieces from his portfolio.
Debut Book
Look! There Are No Dinos Inside of This Book is Mark’s debut picture book. He did a fabulous job listening to our requests and delivering the humourous illustrations that this book required. Even though he is new to illustrating for picture books, he is not new to the world of art and the professional processes and communication skills I require to be a team member.
Reviews of Mark's Work
"I think this story (Look! There Are No Dinos Inside of This Book by Jimmy Vee) will go down superbly well with children aged 4 to 7, particularly, I suspect, boys. They’ll love the humour in the story – and the humour in the vibrant artwork – and they’ll love the absurdity of it all. It’s just all so wonderfully silly. But in a good way; the way that gets kids laughing – and reading!"
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review, www.thewsa.co.uk Tweet
“With its engaging text and illustrations, Look! There Are No Dinos Inside of This Book is a guaranteed giggle-fest from the moment we meet Dangerous Dave to the end scene. It’s a comedic gem that’s not just for kids, but for the whole family to enjoy together. 5 Stars!”
Kameron Brook for Reedsy Discovery Tweet
Mark Wilson’s illustrations are exceptionally well done, with new color and variety on every page.
Self-Publishing Review Tweet
I’m Melinda Martin, and I help authors create quality books for kids.
I meet each author where you are in the process. Request a fit call to learn how I can help you specifically.
Children’s Picture Book Design Tour of the Cuddleecats and Mummy’s Biggest, Best Birthday Surprise Ever!
I first connected with Cindy in July 2023. Although Cindy is no stranger to creating quality art, Cuddleecats was her debut book and she reached a point where she realized she needed the help of an experienced picture book designer. And I’m so glad she chose me!
Picture Book Storyboard Templates
Proper pagination is one of the great mysteries surrounding picture books. These picture book storyboard templates and accompanying explanations provide a firm foundation for your picture book layout.
Children’s Picture Book Design Tour of Look! There Are No Dinos Inside of This Book by Jimmy Vee
Jimmy Vee is a magician, ventriloquist, and picture book author-publisher who knows how to capture a kid’s attention. For “Look! There Are No Dinos Inside of This Book,” it was imperative that we find the perfect illustrator who could keep the laughs coming in from our pint-sized audience. Mission accomplished!