Lauren Sharples is an illustrator and writer based in Leeds, with a focus on children’s books. She recently earned an MA in Children’s Book Illustration from Cambridge School of Art, after completing a BA in Illustration at Leeds Arts University.

Lauren’s work is narrative-driven and rooted in nostalgic, often humorous memories of childhood. She uses expressive linework and traditional printmaking methods, frequently incorporating recycled materials like Tetra Pak and reclaimed paper to build sustainable, textured visuals.

Her illustrations have received recognition from major awards, including Picture This!, the World Illustration Awards, iJungle Illustration Awards, the Macmillan Prize for Illustration, and the Penguin Cover Design Award. She is also a current mentee with Picture Hooks.