Cabbi Charles, a storyteller of culture and place

Cabbi Charles is an artist based in the UK who finds joy in creating with pencil, watercolor and digital tools like Procreate. Cabbi’s work also explores textures through mono prints and gel plates. She is passionate about showcasing the beauty and vibrancy of Black and Brown cultures in her art. Growing up in London has influenced her work, whether it's capturing urban landscapes or depicting the tranquillity of escaping to the countryside or sea.

Let’s find out more about Cabbi, where she finds her inspiration, how her process works, and more:

What would you say is your best piece of work or collaboration to date, and why?

In 2024 I was the resident illustrator for the Jericho Prize, a competition for under-represented writers of children’s books. It was a wonderful opportunity to collaborate on a unique brief and exchange ideas. I was especially pleased with the final stationary designs.

Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration?

I still visit exhibitions but mainly I like to check out local art from street murals and craft shows to architecture. Living in a busy city that’s always changing means there’s usually something new around every corner. Recently I’ve been inspired by the discovery of green spaces, hidden wild reserves, collective allotments and community gardens.

Is there anything you'd say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.

As an African-Caribbean woman, I always want to be inclusive of Black and Brown people within my work. I feel that I add context that goes beyond the visual and can bring an authentic voice to a project or add a fresh take.

What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you.

I enjoy the challenge of finding unique ways of drawing a scene, such as playing with different perspectives, textures and shapes on the page.

How would you describe your style?

I try to keep an analogue feel within my illustration by initially working in pencil and watercolour. I often use a birds-eye perspective with my landscapes, inspired by having lived in a high rise tower block, where the view was great!

Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you, if you were offered it - something that connects to something meaningful to you. 

I’d like a project where I can research and find a unique take on the subject. I’d love to work with a publisher such as Tate publishing, creating a picture book linked to an exhibition or related subject.

Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?

I’m enjoying working on larger pieces, mainly portraits, using different mediums such as acrylic and printing. I write picture books and middle grade stories which I’d like to eventually finish and publish.

Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real life person, who would that be?

Adelaide Hall, a jazz singer and entertainer who lived a very full life! Born in America in 1901, she spent over half her life in the UK and has a blue plaque in Kensington. There are so many points of interest to illustrate and interpret for a young audience, either as a non fiction book or in a fictional narrative form, I’d jump at the chance!

If you’d like more info, please contact [email protected]

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