Commissions
I create hand-drawn illustrations and illustrated maps that help organisations communicate landscapes, routes and stories in a way that’s clear, engaging and rooted in place.
I’ve always been fascinated by maps — from the ones at the front of books depicting real or imagined lands, to historic maps showing how our understanding of the world has changed.
A good map isn’t just about showing people how to get from A to B. It should help people understand what they’re seeing, how a place works, and why it’s important. Illustrated maps can tell the story of a place in a way that a standard digital map can’t — capturing local character, highlighting relationships within the landscape, and helping people feel more connected to where they are.
I work with estates, landowners, charities and heritage organisations who want to help people understand not just where they are, but what they’re seeing and why it matters — whether that’s through a visitor map, interpretation board, publication or printed material.
I also take private commissions from people looking to create a special and unique piece of art, often to gift. You can find out more about working with me in this way on my Special & Unique Gifts page.
If you're looking to license existing artwork rather than commission something new, take a look at my licensing page.
You can find out more about specific types of commissions as well as read some case studies by visiting the following pages, or continue scrolling down this page for information about who I work with, my approach, fees, etc.
Who I work with
If you are:
an estate or farm that is open to the public
a conservation or environmental organisation
a charity or trust
a heritage site or a visitor attraction
a publisher or editor commissioning nature- or place-based illustration
Then you are in the right place! Many of my clients are working to balance access, education and care for the land. They need visual communication that is accurate, thoughtful and accessible — and that respects both the landscape and the audience.
What I’m commissioned to create
My commissioned work includes: illustrated visitor and walking maps, maps and artwork for interpretation boards and signage, wildlife, habitat and landscape illustration, illustration for leaflets, exhibitions and educational materials, and editorial and publishing illustration, including book covers. Much of this work combines illustration, design and copy, allowing projects to be delivered as a cohesive whole.
I also work with organisations to deliver bespoke sketching workshops from nature-based drawing sessions to illustrating stories or objects from a collection — find out more on my Bespoke Workshops page.
My approach
My work balances artistic interpretation with careful research and collaboration.
Before becoming a freelance illustrator, I spent over 15 years working in marketing and communications within the not-for-profit sector. I understand the pressures many organisations are under — limited time, fixed budgets, public accountability and the need to communicate clearly with a wide range of audiences.
I take time to understand your site, your aims and your audience, so that the final artwork is accurate, appropriate and fit for purpose.
Every project starts with a conversation.
Initial discussion: We talk through your ideas, your site, your audience and how the work will be used.
Discovery & agreement: Following this discussion, I prepare a Commissioning Agreement confirming the scope of work, fee, timescale, milestones and licensing terms.
Research & roughs: I carry out research and provide at least one set of roughs or concept sketches for review.
Artwork development: The final artwork is developed, with progress shared at agreed stages so there’s plenty of opportunity for feedback.
Delivery: Finished artwork is supplied for print and/or digital use, as set out in the agreement.
Project timescales vary depending on complexity — from a few weeks to longer-term projects — but are always agreed in advance.
Fees and budgets
Commission fees depend on the scope, complexity and intended use of the artwork.
As a guide illustrated maps and interpretation projects for organisations usually range from £1,000–£5,000, including the relevant license for use. All projects are quoted individually following an initial discussion.
Discuss a project
Every project starts with a conversation — and there's no obligation at that stage, just a chance to find out if we're a good fit. If you’re planning a new illustrated map or need some nature or place-based illustrations for an interpretation board, publication or similar project, I’d love to hear more. Please use my commissions enquiry form below to tell me a little about your project, how the artwork will be used and your timescale, and I’ll be in touch to let you know how I can help.
Testimonials
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"We commissioned the wonderful Ali from Coostie Illustration & Design last year to create a concept which I had for an information board/farm map for part of the farm and boy did she understand the assignment!! It's been a pleasure from the off to work with her! She completely "got" my idea and created something far better than I could have ever imagined."
Anne, Welcome Board and Illustrated Map Commission
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“I just opened the package and the illustration is beautiful!! Thank you so much for working with me to get this done ahead of schedule.”
Harini, Illustrated Map Commission
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"In creating the illustrated map and front cover for Lady of the Quay, Ali interpreted my vision perfectly. She led the creative design for the cover, coming up with a concept that was beyond anything I had imagined. She is very professional to work with, meets deadlines (even when they are incredibly tight 😳) and always with a smile."
Amanda Roberts, Author
