Stephen Hanson

From a young age, I have always had a passion for art and a strong desire to pursue a career as an artist. In terms of the artists who have inspired me, I have been greatly influenced by Arthur Rackham, Brian Froud, Alan Lee, Chuck Close, and Frank Frazetta. I was specifically attracted to fantasy and realism, and I enjoyed the creativity and authenticity that they brought to their work.

After graduating from Batley Art College with a distinction in graphic design and illustration, my first job was with a greeting card company. Sinbad movies, especially those with special effects created by Ray Harryhausen, were my passion.

They greatly influenced me and made me aware of the potential for careers in the film industry. I acquired as much knowledge as possible concerning the process of their creation and the individuals responsible for the enchantment.

After dedicating all my free time to developing my portfolio, I began working at Cosgrove Hall Productions in Manchester after a few years.

I have worked as a visual development artist on projects such as The BFG, Dangermouse, and Count Duckula for a duration of four years. After that, I have had the privilege of working on movies like Balto, The Corpse Bride, Despicable Me and Flushed Away, Arthur Christmas, and Adventures with Pirates.

In addition to this, I have experience in working on different TV commercials and have illustrated multiple children’s books, such as Enid Blyton’s Secret Seven and Kes Gray’s Nelly the Monster Sitter. Additionally, I have written and illustrated Froobie Pink and the Night Noises.