Lucinda Gifford

Where were you born?

I was born in Yeovil, England – but my parents moved back up to Scotland when I was tiny and that’s where I was brought up. I’ve lived in many different places since, and moved out to Australia in 2003.

What other jobs jobs have you had?

I have worked as a trainee architect, data analyst, graphic designer, copywriter, cleaner, art studio instructor, bartender, marketing assistant, draughts-person and (most lucratively) as an art director in advertising firms.

What themes are recurring in your work?

My own stories focus on children taking control of their environment and using their imagination. I try to bring humour and warmth into my drawing and love to draw almost anything (with the possible exception of tractors).

What have been the highlights of your career?

Seeing children dressed as my characters for Book Week, and having my book Whitney and Britney Chicken Divas selected for 2020 National Simultaneous Storytime.

Where have your works been published?

So far, Australia, the UK, Spain, Belgium, China, Thailand, Taiwan, Turkey, Romania, Russia and the USA.

What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about giving children the freedom to explore outdoors and go on adventures, both real and imagined.

Haven’t I seen you before?

Maybe hanging out with the ducks in the outdoor pool? I love to swim slowly up and down… especially on rainy days.