Hello!
I’m a children’s book illustrator. I live and work by the sea on the Mornington Peninsula, Australia. Most days I can be found at my desk with a cup of tea, drawing characters or scenes for stories.
New Releases in 2025
Published by CSIRO, this delightful, fun book teaches about Australian animals and their poo! Released in April 2025. Available for preorder.
Published by EK Books this sweet story is about a clever, problem solving girls who sews for her friends and community. Released in August 2025. Available internationally for preorder.
The Ariana Treasure reader series is a collection of 6 fun stories for early readers. Published by Wombat Books. Released in March 2025 and available for preorder.
Alphabet illustration and design
Greeting Card Illustrations
Tees, cushions and more on Redbubble
Christmas t.shirt Illustrations
Fun illustration challenges
Illustrating poetry
What they say…
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"Receiving Karen's images has always been a joy, and right from the moment we receive them, they shape our entire production. I love looking up at the screens at venues such as the Sydney Opera House in the leadup to our productions and seeing Karen's illustrations displayed. Delightful, quaint and fun, Karen has created pictures that we are really proud of and capture exactly the texture of what we are trying to say. They have helped us build our image with our production partners, including the schools we visit."
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"One of the best things about working on picture books is the opportunity I have to see my words brought to life with clever and insightful illustration. I feel lucky to have worked with Karen Erasmus on four picture books so far and I hope we have more in our future. Above all, Karen is a delight to work with! "
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"I got in touch with Karen after I had written some poems for my grandsons and wanted them to be illustrated for framing as gifts. I researched different illustrators on line and found Karen’s style to be just what I was looking for. I sent her some photos for reference and was absolutely delighted with what she came up with. The illustrations capture exactly the themes of the poems. Each of my three little grandsons now have my poems with Karen’s illustrations hanging on their bedroom walls and I couldn’t be more pleased or proud with the end result. Karen was very easy to communicate with and the work was all completed in a very professional and timely manner. I would highly recommend her for anyone looking for illustrative work and design. "
Val Mackintosh
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It was such a pleasure working with Karen. She responded to our brief with creative and clever illustrations that are perfect for our target audience of early readers. Great communication, timely delivery of files and beautiful drawings – thanks Karen!
Liz Heynes, Education Services Australia
Goodies in the Shop
I sell a bunch of different products featuring my illustrations.
Wander over to my shop and have a browse.
Services
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Illustration for children’s books
I’ve been illustrating children’s books for over 10 years. I love working with publishers and writers to bring characters to life. I have a background in teaching, and three children of my own, so I appreciate the precious connections that are made in sharing stories.
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Illustration for businesses
I’ve provided illustration for all sorts of different projects including exhibition spaces, online courses and education resources. Check out my projects page to see more.
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Illustration for products
Each month I can be found at Emu Plains Market I sell a range of illustrated products such as books and cards. I also design and sell ‘Sew Together’ doll kits and illustrated tea towels.
I’m really proud to be involved with this wonderful organisation. They have so far brought over 3 million books to disadvantaged children throughout Australia. Click on the logo to find out more.
