C.J. Ellison

C.J. Ellison – Designer

I'm an award-winning illustrator, well-versed both in realistic nature-based and fantasy painting and children's media ✨

Overview

Hello there! Illustration is often the first, true, genuine connection between a reader and your story. That's why I believe illustration is not just about creating a beautiful image- it's about the heart.

With years of expertise in art direction, composition, and of course, illustration, I'm interested in truly understanding the needs of others and making sure they are heard and supported in their creative goals.

Whatever your vision is for your story, let's make it happen!🌟

✨Illustration & Design Career Highlights:

- 10 years of illustration and design experience

- 7 years of remote freelancing experience

- Award-winning illustration work

- Lead Designer level of expertise

- Developed nearly 60 children's toy product lines (including products for Jurassic World!)

✨ Subject Matter

- Animal/Creature/Nature

- Fantasy/Magic/Supernatural

- Character-based

✨ Areas of Illustration Expertise

- Realistic Painting

- Stylized Children's Media

Services
Fiction
Children's Fantasy Historical Fiction Magical Realism
Non-Fiction
Nature
Languages
English
Awards
  • 2022 Chess Journalism Award for Best Art
  • Proko Art Challenge (January 2021) - Proko Team Award
  • Proko Art Challenge (January 2021) - Honorable Mention
Certifications
  • NHI101x: Drawing Nature, Science and Culture: Natural History Illustration 101
  • Graphic Design Specialization

Work experience

Self-employed

Jan, 2016 — Present
- Multi-year career culminating in award-winning work in illustration and painting -Specializing in captivating digital painting, character and toy design, licensed products, book illustration, cover art, and commissioned works for both print and online publications. - Clients include: Benebone, Toy Monster, Lion Forge, U.S. Chess Federation, and more

Gallopade

Jan, 2020 — Dec, 2020 (almost 1 year)
Freelance Client - Art directed and developed the visual style for Carole Marsh's book and curriculum guide, "Germwise: Outbreaks, Epidemics, & Pandemics," - Adeptly interpreted text to craft entertaining and educational illustrations for diverse grade and middle school audiences.

Cepia, LLC

Nov, 2016 — Mar, 2020 (over 3 years)
- Lead and product designer for over 55 children’s toy lines creating everything from art direction to character designs, to fun supporting assets and illustrations - Focused on creating toys that focused on joy and entertainment while sensitive to the needs and play patterns of different age groups.

U.S Chess Federation (Freelance Client)

Jan, 2016 — Present
- Award-winning cover illustrator known for skillfully interpreting design briefs and crafting visually engaging illustrations for Chess Life Kids. - Conceptualized and designed notable characters including the beloved Chess Life Kids mascot, Rook-E

Portfolio

Made with Reedsy
The Adventures of ArgyLe Sock

Peach, M. Kelly

Cover Design

C.J. has 1 review

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Michael P.

Michael P.

Aug, 2024

C. J. was a pleasure to work with. She is professional and cordial, in addition to being a talented artist. I am very pleased with my book's cover illustration both front and back.

Professionals similar to C.J.

Get a range of offers by requesting quotes from multiple professionals.

Alana McCarthy

Alana M.

One stop shop for illustration, lettering and design for book covers and picture books. Award winning illustrator with 20+ years experience.

Toronto, ON, Canada

100% reply rate

View profile
Christian Luigi Russo

Christian Luigi R.

Alien, book designer and illustrator. I'm a full-time furby, way-loo with me your booklish desires! Your wishes are my book.

Torre del Greco, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

100% reply rate

View profile
Nunzia Di Giacomo

Nunzia D.

I'm an illustrator specialising in animals and wildlife, with a versatile skillset for creating detailed, science-inspired visuals.

Lucca, Province of Lucca, Italy

100% reply rate

View profile