I’ve always loved to draw. My love for illustration began as a child. I can’t help drawing, it’s a great way to tell a story.

My mum was an artist and my dad built our house; we were always a do-it-yourself family and collectors of anything that might come in handy.

My training as an artist and a teacher has provided me with a good foundation for creating visual narratives. My experience as an art teacher in particular was great for introducing me to art practices of all kinds and started me thinking about art as a conversation, rather than an end in itself.

I love books – especially picture books – I’ve collected them all my life. They inspire me, feed me and I love to share them. My first book was published in 1980 and my most recent, just a week ago. Every book I’ve worked on has been very different and that’s because my approach is driven by the story. I have lots of tricks up my sleeve to make whatever may be right to tell each story – whether I have written it – or someone else has.

I am drawn to create but I do benefit from being directed, organised and supported by the sorts of people who are best at that. I like working in a team, particularly with creative people, and especially with and for children.

I am curious to see what happens when my hand seems to take over the lead from my head. I am excited by the accidents, surprises and tangents that have me seeing new possibilities. I love being asked for solutions and ideas. More and more, I realise how important it is that people are so different in their ways of thinking and working and acting – we fill each others gaps. Though I can be frustrated by those who don’t see or do things my way, the other way is nearly always complimentary and useful in the end.

I believe that we need to take ownership of what we create, even if our whole purpose is to share it.  I am very careful and particular about creating something. I take my time and perfect it to suit. And I want to protect it. If it’s copied I want control over how, and why. If it makes money – I have a right to earn from it – it makes sense. Copyright supports me as a creator and informs me as a consumer.

The Copyright Agency is the backbone of much of the work I do as a creator, as well as through Books Illustrated and the Australian Children’s Literary Association.