I am a Finnish-born, UK-based illustrator and surface pattern designer. I create researched designs, rooted in nature and folklore. My background in award-winning film-making shapes the way I approach design work - telling stories with expressive hand-drawn line is my speciality. I work with artisan founders and lifestyle brands on bespoke designs.
A selection of my designs are available for licensing.
My signature style sits between nostalgic realism and intentional maximalism - creating a visual expression, whether the outcome is an illustration or a repeat pattern. Each design starts with research into a specific place, plant or a folk story. I hand-draw with pen on paper before using digital tools. This is what separates my work from purely decorative illustration: every design can be rooted back to a source or a story, not pulled from a stock reference or a fleeting trend.
I'm a designer, who finds inspiration in the natural world - from my childhood growing up in a Finnish forest - to this day living in a lush Yorkshire valley - nature remains my muse.
I enjoy telling stories and helping brands stand out from their competitors with bespoke illustrations and pattern design. I care about the environment and try to source my materials as sustainably as possible. I prefer to collaborate with companies that are earth conscious.
A selection of my illustrations and surface repeat patterns for different markets. My designs always start as hand drawn pencil sketches, which I refine further with watercolour paints, ink markers or by colouring digitally. My work follows a clear creative process and is always rooted in a story.
To request access to my entire portfolio, please email me at: info@heidivilkman.com
