Introducing Taiye Hassan-Okoh, an advocate for creativity
Taiye Hassan-Okoh is a children’s book illustrator from Nigeria with a lifelong passion for art and creativity. From an early age, Taiye spent countless hours drawing, inspired by a love of cartoons and animated shows that ignited a desire to tell stories through vibrant visuals and unique characters. Since 2019, Taiye has collaborated on a range of exciting projects that celebrate storytelling for children and has brought to life several delightful picture books.
Let’s find out more about Taiye, where he finds his inspiration, how his process works, and more:
What would you say is your best piece of work/collaboration to date, and why?
My best piece of work to date happens to be a just-concluded children's book I worked on with Monique Mayers, a visionary client whose storytelling I found deeply inspirational to kids and something an adult could resonate with. The book embodied everything I value as an illustrator: a meaningful story, a positive rapport with the client, and an opportunity to experiment with whimsical elements that brought the character to life. I especially enjoyed collaborating closely with the author as we navigated to find the best representation of character to match the emotional tone of the story.
Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration?
I like to observe the time-lapses of my favorite artists’ works on Instagram; other times, I watch animated movies. Taking a walk in the neighborhood also clears my mind and opens the door for new ideas. Exercising also keeps me mentally active to pursue my next artwork!
Is there anything you'd say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.
I’d say I’d be a good advocate for creativity in art through human artistry as opposed to AI art in the context of storytelling and Illustrations for kids. I believe kids deserve carefully crafted illustrations that carry the heart and imagination of the artist. The human touch is what makes children’s books timeless and meaningful.
What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you.
I have come to develop my own way of approaching illustration for children's books by using a style that fits the mood or narrative of the story in question. I also enjoy working closely with clients, listening carefully to their vision while still bringing my own creative ideas to the table. That balance of imaginative visuals and dependable partnership is what I believe makes my work stand out.
If you have done paid commissions prior to joining the agency, what would you say is something that clients repeatedly come to you for (up to now)?
It’s all about the experience: I always show my commitment to the project as though it were my own, and try to make the whole experience a positive one for the client. Most importantly, my readiness to be of assistance is what always brings them back. I always maintain a positive rapport and try to exceed their expectations.
How would you describe your style?
My style is simple, combining vivid colors on not-too-cartoonish character designs, and a soft, simple yet detailed background/environment. I'm also fond of experimenting with lighting in my illustrations, which is another aspect I enjoy about the creative process. Overall, I love creating illustrations that appeal to both kids and grown-ups alike, making sure everyone can enjoy them!
Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you, if you were offered it — something meaningful to you.
As a child, I was always drawn to stories. They trigger imaginative thoughts as I try to visualize the narrative in coherence with my understanding of it. I want to be involved in a project that reminds me of why I chose to be an illustrator in the first place. A story that creates a life-long experience for children, as it did for me; a culturally/educationally enriching story, so to speak!
Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?
Yes, I have a personal project I’m working on, which is currently in the early stages. It’s a short 2D animation, intended to demonstrate the culmination of my journey as an illustrator, with colorful backgrounds and playful characters. There are no main characters in the animation as the story is meant to be thought-provoking.
Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real-life person, who would that be?
That would be me! Lol… Honestly, no one comes to mind, but I believe there are many great people out there whose stories are waiting to be told, and I’m keen to see what the future holds!
If you’d like more info, please contact [email protected]
At illo agency, we pride ourselves in representing a collation of global illustrators, distinctly diverse in creativity and uniquely celebrated by like-minded clients across a range of commercial markets.