Illustrating the natural world from my Hampshire studio.
Hello, I’m Rachel…
As an illustrator focused on the natural world, I thrive on collaborations that celebrate species and habitats - creating images that cultivate deep connection and a sense of belonging.
Grounded in environmental storytelling, my practice spans site-specific conservation interpretation and children's literature to greeting cards, editorial commissions, and a growing focus on book cover design. I regularly work with sustainable brands, environmental organisations, and some of the UK’s leading publishers and voices in nature writing.
With over 12 years of freelance experience, I hold an MA in Illustration (with Distinction) from Falmouth University and a first-class BA in World Art Studies from the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts at UEA, Norwich. My creative work is uniquely informed by nine years spent working directly within The Wildlife Trusts.
I am open to commercial commissions, publishing contracts, and licensing opportunities, and I welcome inquiries from prospective illustration agencies.
If you think that my work could be a good fit for your project, I’d love to hear from you…
Email me at rhudsonillustration@gmail.com or call 0798 4301744
Guest Blogs, Interviews, Features & Reviews
Tarka Revisited book review
Mark Avery.info, June 2026
Discover a Curated List of 41 Must-Know Freelance Illustrators
Creative Howl, 2025
Wildlife Imitating Art, cover art and five-page feature
Hampshire Life, December 2024
Interview with Candace Savage & Rachel Hudson
The Picture Book Buzz, October 2024
The Cover of Reflections
Mark Avery.info, July 2023
Words & Pictures Interview
Society of Children’s Writers & Illustrators, 2022
Inspired by the Coast, six-page feature
Coast Magazine, May 2021
Illustrations With Impact
Conservation Optimism, 2021
Selected Clients
Badger Balm / Bat Conservation Trust
BBC Wildlife Magazine / Bloomsbury Publishing
Butterfly Conservation / Button Books
CuriOdyssey Science Playground & Zoo
Greystone Kids Books / National Trust
Otter House Ltd / Pelagic Publishing
Penguin Random House
Reader’s Digest / RSPB / Saga Magazine
Silver Birch Cards / Starfish Bay Publishing
The Simple Things / The Tree Council
The Wildlife Trusts / Zazous Editions
Professional Memberships
Artists Now (UK’s largest artists’ association)
Book Awards & Selections
Yellow Cedar Award nominee, 2026, Forest of Reading (Ontario Library Association)
Children’s Wainwright Prize, 2025 Children’s Non-Fiction Longlist
Finalist, Youth Book Award 2024
Science Writers & Communicators of Canada (SWCC)
‘Outstanding Merit’ star, Bank Street Best Children's Books of the Year 2025
Starred selection, The Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC)
Best Books for Kids & Teens, 2025
Business Awards
National Runner Up, Best Rural Creative Business, 2020, Rural Business Awards
Winner, South-East & Greater London, Best Rural Creative Business, 2020, Rural Business Awards
