About Me

I am an illustrator based in Scotland, creating detailed ink illustrations and ceramics inspired by folkore and wild places. I believe that we can strengthen our connection with nature through the exploration of folklore and land enchantment; continuing to build on folklore as a living tradition, unearthing ancestral land knowledge and using it to address modern issues. I am particularly interested in Scottish folklore and history and the way that it relates to land and perceptions of nature. Much of my work is rooted in this concept, which I visualise through intricate ink drawings, watercolour paintings, printmaking, and ceramics. Each project is underpinned by a desire to conduct explorative and thorough research, especially archival and location-based research which I record in drawing journals and sketchbooks.

Book Illustration

My main focus is book illustration, both fiction and non-fiction, particularly inspired by traditional illustrators such as Arthur Rackham, Alan Lee and John Bauer. This can be seen in my work for an extended book project during which I collected and illustrated folk tales from the island of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. I have also made scientific illustrations of insects for a published non-fiction book, and illustrations for short stories by Edgar Allen Poe and HP Lovecraft published by Helios House, as well as illustrations for multiple zines.

Album covers, merchandise & poster design

My other avenue of work is album covers, merchandise and poster designs for bands and festivals. I have been working in this industry for 8 years and clients include Beltane Fire Festival, Season of Mist, Nuclear Blast, Young Edinburgh Storytellers, Fortress Festival, Green Lung, Svalbard, Saor and Incineration Festival. I have also illustrated for activist groups The Stars Are for Everyone and Right to Roam to protest land access rights.

If you would like to discuss a commission, please email me at hesterasplandillustration@gmail.com
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