Hi, I’m Windy Zhu, an illustrator and designer from China. I hold an MA in Children’s Book Illustration from the Cambridge School of Art.

I create picture books that explore themes of growth, identity, and self-discovery through quiet, emotionally driven narratives, blending design sensibility with traditional aesthetics, and balancing simplicity with emotional depth.

With a background in interior and book design, I approach picture books as spaces to be designed, experienced, and inhabited, where images, materials, and the physical qualities of the book work together as part of an integrated design.

I’m always open to creative collaborations—feel free to get in touch.

Awards

2026

Little None — Finalist Illustrators, The Bologna Children’s Book Fair

2025

The Colorless Fish — Best Work, China Illustration Annual

Little Monk — Outstanding Work, China Illustration Annual

Little Monk — Gold Award, “Huaxia Award” Cultural and Art Design Competition (Autumn)

Little Yaksha — Shortlist, 5th Bronze Sunflower Picture Book Award

Little Yaksha — Shortlist, 1st Chen Bochui New Children’s Literature Award, Picture Book & Illustration Competition

Childhood Tofu Stand — Shortlist, 5th BIBF International Illustration Competition (Editorial Illustration)

I Am Little Dragon King — Shortlist, 4th Red Cape Original Picture Book Competition

2024

British Council GREAT Scholarships

2023

Little Monk — Top 100 Finalist, 9th Golden Pinwheel International Young Illustrator Competition

Jiangnan Solar Terms / Book Design — Excellence Award, 10th National Book Design Art Exhibition

2020

Little Yaksha — American Brightness Award for Children’s Picture Books

Tianqiao Chronicles — Shortlist, 8th Hiii Illustration International Competition (Non-Commissioned Work)

City Eccentrics — Shortlist, 8th Hiii Illustration International Competition (Commercial Work)