Nicole Hammerl

Nicole Hammerl – Designer

Published children's book illustrator creating timeless watercolor worlds of nature, animals & emotion

Overview

I am a published children’s book illustrator creating detailed, atmospheric watercolor worlds inspired by nature, animals, and the quiet emotional moments of childhood.

My aim is not simply to illustrate individual scenes, but to create a cohesive visual world for the entire book: recurring characters, believable environments, atmosphere, pacing, and details that reward a closer look.

I work traditionally in watercolor as well as digitally in a watercolor-based style, depending on the needs of the project. As an academically trained illustrator I aim for high quality and provide you a distinctive style which gives your book a timeless character and value.

Picture book projects with me start from 3000,- EUR + Reedsy fees. The fee includes the license for the illustrations to be used for the publication of the book in print and digital/ebook formats, as well as for the book's marketing and promotional purposes. This means you get every right you need, to produce and sell your book.

From the first visual development and character sketches to the final artwork, I work closely with authors to build a book that feels personal, timeless, and beautifully connected from page to page.

If you are looking for illustrations with a handcrafted, natural and emotionally resonant feel, I would love to hear about your story.

Services
Non-Fiction
Nature
Fiction
Picture Books
Languages
English

Work experience

Self-employed

Jan, 2026 — Present
I create cover designs for children's and young adult literature that explore sensitive, emotional, and nature-inspired themes. My focus is on depicting emotional worlds and creating a unique atmosphere. You can find a selection of my covers in my portfolio.

Self-employed

Jul, 2025 — Mar, 2026 (9 months)
I created illustrations for an adventurous horse story published by Renate Götz Verlag. Tucci, a little gelding, moves to a new farm and embarks on a great new adventure. Together with his new friends—the clever Gina, the laid-back Toni, and the perpetually hungry Tim—he discovers a world full of fun, surprises, and little challenges.

selfpublished with Astrid Schnedl

Oct, 2024 — May, 2025 (8 months)
Created illustrations for a heartwarming children's book about coping with grief. Through the story of Lotta's loss of her horse, the illustrations help young readers explore their feelings and learn how to cope with grief, grow from the experience, and make new friends.

Portfolio

Lottas Schutzengel kann wiehern

Astrid Schnedl

BoD – Books on Demand

'Lottas Schutzengel kann wiehern' ist ein liebevolles Trostbuch für Kinder und Familien. Lotta vermisst ihr geliebtes Pony Bella. Als Bella stirbt, beginnt für Lotta eine Reise durch große Gef... read more
Illustration

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