Pearl Bates
Illustration portfolio
I create audacious art for vibrant minds—where fairytale magic meets a contemporary edge. My work blends the fantastical with a sharply modern twist, bringing bold, narrative-driven visuals to life.
As an award-winning artist and illustrator, I craft captivating imagery for books, brands, interiors, and live events. Inspired by 19th-century fairytale illustration and the bold aesthetics of modern comics, my signature style features sinuous lines, luminous colour, and stylised characters that spark the imagination.
My art has been featured in global exhibitions, editorial projects, animation, and live illustration events as well as large-scale murals and window displays.
I love collaborating with forward-thinking brands and individuals who are looking for artwork that makes an impact and ignites conversation. Whether you need a spellbinding original piece or a visionary illustration partnership, I’m passionate about bringing daring creative ideas to life.
Murals
Large scale city centre murals
Live Event Art
For events, product launches, special occasions, and weddings
Illustration for children
A portfolio of examples of illustration for kids
Vopera
Illustrations for an award-winning animated virtual opera
The Music Thief
An award-winning illustrated children’s book
Theatre art
Illustrations inspired by my backstage work in the world of opera
✨ Let’s create something extraordinary. If you're interested in commissions, collaborations, or just connecting, I'd love to hear from you.
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Rachael Hewer
DIRECTOR, VOPERA
Pearl worked on a global-scale film project for my team at VOPERA and it was clear from the very beginning that she was a consummate professional; dedicated to the artistic integrity of the work and deeply committed to ensuring that her contribution is of the highest standard. She has excellent communication and interpersonal skills as well as a real flare for imagination and attention to detail. I cannot recommend Pearl highly enough.
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Soozie Campbell
CHAIR OF BRIGHTON & HOVE TOURISM ALLIANCE
It was a delight to work with Pearl. She was always quick to grasp the essence of what was required, to follow a brief and deliver on time. She worked extremely hard, often under difficult working conditions (on the streets and in the cold) without complaint and always produced the most delightful pieces. I would recommend her to anyone.
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Nicola Blackwell
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, SLOT MACHINE THEATRE
Pearl's illustrations for Slot Machine Theatre's Brighton Festival commission The Boy, the Piano and The Beach, delighted adults and children alike. Working with Pearl was a wonderful experience, and she brought exacting professionalism, rigour and flair to the project. We can't wait to work with her again.
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John Cleese
ACTOR & WRITER
Some of the most extraordinary work I've seen.
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Ridley Scott
FILM DIRECTOR
Extraordinary.
