Jess Racklyeft

Author, Illustrator

Jess Racklyeft is an award winning illustrator (and sometimes author) of over 30 picture books. She creates work with a variety of media including watercolour, mono prints, acrylics and digital illustration – resulting in a very messy studio!

Where were you born?

I was born in Perth, West Australia. 

What other jobs have you had?

After such random jobs as working in the ski fields and with Spirit of Tasmania I worked in the publishing industry for a decade before making the leap in illustration. Jobs included customer service, sales and marketing – and my last role was selling co-editions (books to overseas publishers) allowing me to travel to the Frankfurt and Bologna book fairs. That solidified my plan to follow my dream to work as an illustrator!

What themes are recurring in your work?

Nature, environment and family life.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Winning the CBCA Picture Book of the Year Award in 2022 for Iceberg.

Where have your works been published?

Along with Australia, books can be found in the US, North America, France, Italy, South America and the UK.

What are you passionate about?

I am very passionate about conservation and ecology.