I’m Paige ~
I am an illustrator and writer with a focus on children’s literature. I work from my home in the Piedmont region of North Carolina.
With a name like Paige, I’ve always imagined my life’s purpose would somehow involve books. I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember, often finding solace in my creations and wild imagination during a turbulent childhood. I turned to writing as a teenager, spilling my heart’s desires in diary entries or writing about humorous heroes and fantastical escapades in my short stories (I’m still proud of my 75-paged coming-of-age tale from the 7th grade!)
My work delves into hidden magic, forgotten realms, and misfit characters. I try to imagine the world through the eyes of a child, and like to explore fanciful ideas, such as, “Do elves have tiny homes somewhere in these woods?; or, “Is the nearby river protected by a familiar spirit?” I am also fascinated by characters who struggle to fit in; who need told their stories of loneliness, abandonment, and self-doubt. The mystery of human connection—the eternal strive towards it and the seeming impossibility of true understanding—is ultimately what I want to explore through my creation.
I graduated with a BA in English literature in 2018 and currently work in the publishing industry (a dream come true!). My studies inspired my work, especially my fascination with fairytales and folklore. I am a self-taught artist working primarily with gouache, although I love to explore new mediums and crafts in my daily practice.
When I am not painting or writing, I can be found cooking a Mimi Thorisson recipe, gardening with my husband, or wandering around a dusty antique shop. Oh—or playing with my cats, Artie and Benji.
Feel free to write me at paigepaynepaints@outlook.com for questions, commissions, or to simply wax poetic about the human condition!
If you are a literary agent: I am currently seeking representation as an author-illustrator for children’s literature, namely picture books. Please feel free to reach out via email or Instagram @paigepaynepaints if you feel I would be a good fit for your list.
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