Reintroducing Coostie Illustration & Design
As we kick-off another new financial year, I thought it would be helpful to reintroduce Coostie Illustration and Design, with a little bit of information about what I do and how you can work with me.
Hello!
I’m Ali, the illustrator and designer behind Coostie Illustration & Design. From my little studio in the coastal town of Berwick-upon-Tweed - nestled just below the Scottish border - I create detailed, nature-inspired artwork using pen-and-ink, watercolour, and coloured pencils.
What I do
I work on branding, editorial and publishing projects for businesses, as well as creating bespoke illustration and original artwork for private clients. I particularly love to draw and paint British wildlife, bringing a range of flora and fauna to life in ink, watercolour or coloured pencil. My other passion is creating hand-drawn maps, bringing to life special places and memories, or charting journeys and adventures.
As well as original artworks, I offer a small range of eco-friendly prints and gifts, available through my online shop and lovely local stockists like Puddles on West Street here in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
I run workshops that focus on helping people to connect with nature through art, whatever there age and ability - I firmly believe that everyone can draw and that drawing in nature can improve our health and wellbeing. My relaxed sessions include a focus on breathing and mindfulness, as well as providing simple exercises and approaches that gently guide participants to find the way of sketching that best suits them.
My studio
When we bought this house, we knocked down the garage (it didn't take much - it was literally about to fall down) and built a lovely, light-filled studio space that my husband and I share.
I spend a lot of time at my computer wearing all of the small business hats (finance, marketing, strategy, etc), as well as designing and/or refining artwork. I start every day by writing a to do list (in my @pithsupply Pomelo planner) although it is a good day when I actually tick everything off!
I've a large wall calendar (from @goodtuesday ) where I try to keep track of all of my events, deadlines and the all important school holidays. For more business-related planning and tracking, I have my trusty Business Planner Handbook from @thedesigntrust which keeps me on track with my weekly, monthly and quarterly strategic planning.
Directly behind me (and, to be honest, in various other places around the studio!) are my art supplies and my tilted drawing board (which I'm trying to use more to improve my posture!)
My style
My work is rooted in the landscapes and heritage that surround me. Otters gliding through the river, hares darting through the fields, and the haunting call of curlews along the shoreline - all of these fleeting moments make their way into my illustrations. That said, I'm equally drawn to the area’s rich history and built environment: ancient stone circles, imposing castles, and the quiet charm of local architecture all find a place in my sketchbook and my wider work.
I like to work in a mix of watercolour, pen-and-ink and coloured pencils and I tend to use muted, earthy tones - reflecting the hues of the region's landscapes, flora and fauna. My illustration style focuses on detail and the tiny elements that bring a piece to life; I love creating illustrations that invite a closer look. The small details can make all the difference, adding depth and personality to every piece.
I also love to integrated hand-lettered text into my work, often incorporating lines from poems or song lyrics, creating a unique connection between imagery and story.
My values
Sustainability is a core part of what I do. I work with ethical suppliers, keep packaging minimal, and donate a portion of profits to local causes that mean a lot to me. ‘Coostie’ is a Northumbrian word meaning ‘good’—and I try to live up to that name with every project I take on.
I’d love for you to follow along—whether you’re here for new artwork, behind-the-scenes glimpses of my process, or just a shared love of nature, history, and thoughtful design.