The winner of this year’s Klaus Flugge Prize, for the most exciting newcomer to picture book illustration, is ECA alumna Emma Farrarons.

Emma, who graduated with BA (Hons) Illustration in 2004, won with her illustrations for the picture book, My Hair is as Long as a River, written by Charlie Castle. It is the story of a boy with very long hair, who, through a series of metaphors, explains why his hair is so important to him, and how it makes him unique. She was particularly proud that after the book was finished, her own nine-year-old grew his hair long, and feels that the story empowered him to do that, and to be proud of it. 

Emma is already a multi-million bestseller for her Mindfulness Colouring series, but this is her debut picture book.

Judge and 2024 Klaus Flugge Prize winner, illustrator Kate Winter, said: “Emma Farrarons’ illustrations demonstrate consistent and accomplished artistry, with beautiful compositions, line work, colour palettes and feeling. The level of observation of children’s behaviour and imagination captured our attention. Emma is a very worthy winner of this prestigious prize.”

Emma said: “This prize means so much to me. When I left my role as an in-house designer to pursue picture book illustration, I never imagined I’d come full circle and work with my former colleagues in such a different way. It was a joy to collaborate with them in this new chapter, and to see that book, alongside Charlie Castle’s beautiful text, recognised with the Klaus Flugge Prize feels truly special.

“I love that this prize celebrates such a wide range of styles and approaches. There’s no single way to be a picture book illustrator—every voice and visual language has value. To be recognised specifically for storytelling, mood, and character is especially meaningful.”

It is the tenth year of the £5,000 prize, which is named for, and honours, the founder of Andersen Press.