Farida Zaman

Photo provided by the author.

Farida Zaman is an illustrator and designer. She runs school workshops for children to share her love of art, guest lectures at art colleges, and gives regular readings from books she has illustrated. Farida studied at Chelsea School of Art and Wimbledon College, both in London, followed by freelance work in Geneva, London, and New York, where her clients have included Swatch, Body Shop, London Underground, and The New York Times. She is a member of the Society of Illustrators and lives in Toronto.

Interview

What was your favorite book when you were a child?

Alice in Wonderland

What’s your favorite line from a book?

“Whatever happens happens for the best.” From The Foolish Men of Agra written by Rina Singh.

Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?

Jane Ray (Illustrator, Author), Shirley Hughes (Illustrator, Author), Laura Cornell (Illustrator)

Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?

I have always wanted to draw since age 5.

Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?

Important to love what you do, and remain committed.