Alexandra Milton
| Alexandra Milton | |
|---|---|
| Born |
June 4, 1967 Paris |
| Occupation | Artist and Illustrator |
| Nationality | French/German |
| Children | Three daughters |
Alexandra Milton (born 4 June 1967 in Paris) is an artist and illustrator. She works primarily in collage.
The artwork in her debut children’s book, Call Me Gorgeous, was nominated for the 2010 Kate Greenaway Medal.[1]
The book was also a 2009 Book Start choice,[2] distributed free to 100,000 children across the UK. In 2012, it was selected as one of the featured titles in the Book Trust's new Book Buzz programme.
Alexandra Milton is married to the writer and historian, Giles Milton, who wrote the text for Call Me Gorgeous and Good Luck Baby Owls.
Interests and Influences
Alexandra Milton specializes in collage, using cut or torn handmade papers from across the world. These are then assembled in layers to create images of birds and other animals. Milton draws inspiration from the natural world and from old botanical and ornithological engravings.
She is the daughter of the German artist Wolfram Aichele and granddaughter of the celebrated animal artist, Erwin Aichele. Their paintings have also provided inspiration for her work.
Milton studied fine art at the Academie Charpentier in Paris.
Commissioned and Published Works
- Call Me Gorgeous (UK hardback) 2009 Boxer Books: ISBN 978-1-906250-70-6
- Call Me Gorgeous (USA hardback) 2009: ISBN 978-1-906250-71-3
- Good Luck Baby Owls Boxer Books, 2012.
Call Me Gorgeous
Call Me Gorgeous was Alexandra Milton’s debut children’s title. The book’s artwork received widespread critical acclaim and was nominated for the 2010 Kate Greenaway Medal. The book was selected for the 2009 Book Start programme.
The story of Call Me Gorgeous draws its inspiration from the culinary texts of the court of King Henry VIII; these record that chimerical monsters were stitched together from various animal parts and served to the king and his courtiers on feast days.
Critical Acclaim
‘This book is a delightful puzzle for a small reader and it ends in a good joke. On the way, there is much to marvel at in the intricate beauty of the animal world so intensely conveyed in Alexandra Milton’s stunning illustration.’ Books for Keeps, 2009.[3]
'This husband and wife team have created a truly original creature, one that will puzzle and delight the family. Stunning collage effects and cover will make sure that this stands out. Definitely one to watch out for.' Bookseller Children's Buyers Guide, autumn 2009.[4]
‘The book’s big reveal shows that the animal is not a monstrous mishmash but rather, as the book’s title suggests, a gorgeous one, who embraces her uniqueness. With its larger-than-life pictures and playful format, this creative picture book is a natural read-aloud, and its message of celebrating our differences will resonate with young readers.’ Kristen McKuslki, Booklist.
'Will have kids in stitches... this unique book is as fun and brassy as it is visually striking.' Publishers Weekly.[5]