This time we’re looking at a not-so-modern illustrator, Arthur Rackham, who created classic drawings for fairytale books in the late 19th to the early 20th century. Rackham was born in 1867, London, England  and created his world-renowned work during the British ‘Golden Age’ of illustration. Regarded as one of the leading illustrators from the early 20th century of British book illustration, Rackham’s books were published in deluxe limited editions and highly sought after for their high-quality illustrations.

However, the beginning of World War 1 saw the decline of his high-quality produced books and the subject matter he often drew (fairies, mythology and fairytale characters) was no longer as popular as it once was. After Rackham’s death, his illustrations regained their popularity and his original paintings and drawings are highly sought-after at international art auctions.

His work is described as a mix between Northern European styles influenced by Japanese woodblock art. Rackham drew out his images in pencil and then finished off the images in India Ink. When adding colour, Rackham applied layers of watercolour washes until translucent tints were created over the inked images.

What I love about Rackham’s work is his gorgeous subject matter. It brings me back to my childhood when I used to read all the fantastical stories of fairies, villains and heroes. I still love those sorts of stories because of the beautiful art that often accompanies them.

He also works in my favourite media: ink and watercolours, which are by no means easy to master. Watercolours are so subtle, but with constant layering they create a delicate and nostalgic atmosphere, as many of Rackham’s paintings have. One of my favourite illustrations of his is the one seen below.  The silhouettes of the trees and the man stand out superbly against the pale wash of the starry night sky.