Buddy Scheme

The buddy scheme is now closed for applications. Keep an eye on social media and our website for further opportunities.

Who is the scheme for?

Are you a creative artist with an interest in children’s picture book illustration? Perhaps you love to draw memorable characters but aren’t sure about committing to a degree, or have developed your creative talent in a different industry altogether. Our buddy scheme pairs artists with established children’s illustrators over six months to help you develop your illustration style and explore if this might be the path for you.

How it works

Selected creative artists will be paired with established children’s book illustrators for six months. You will meet with your buddy at a time and in a way which suits you and fits around your commitments. Your buddy will be able to share their experience to help you develop your voice and style and learn more illustrating for children’s picture books.

Meet our pilot buddies

Learn more about participants from our pilot buddy scheme here.

In 2021–22, Picture Hooks trialled a new scheme which would develop into our buddy scheme for creative artists. We collected feedback from participants in order to make it even better. Below you can find some comments from our pilot buddies.

“I am really enjoying the buddy scheme. I have a lot of room to explore what works and what doesn’t in my own work, ultimately leading to a more confident creative process.”
– Nadia Alam, buddy 2021–22

“My mentor and I have talked every month and each session is very useful, full of information about picture books and wonderful discussions.”
– Narges Fayaz, buddy 2021–22

Looking for our Mentoring Programme for more experienced emerging illustrators? Click here.