Keith Grammar School plays host to renowned illustrator Kate Leiper

PUPILS from Keith Grammar School were given a talk by a renowned illustrator and artist recently.

Kate Leiper, originally from Lossiemouth but now based in Edinburgh, has had her work exhibited in galleries from London to the north of Scotland.

And, since graduating from Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen, Kate has made a name for herself illustrating children's books.

Thanks to Scottish Book Trust Live Literature funding, S3 Art and Design pupils from Keith Grammar School were given an insight into her work and her method during a talk at the school on March 15.

They were also given expert advice on how to approach their project, given in advance of Kate's visit, which will see them illustrate the world or setting from a novel.

To support this, the talented illustrator highlighted some areas to think about when planning for the task. That included becoming familiar with the text, what clues it gives pupils and what it doesn’t tell them.

She also encouraged pupils to sketch out their ideas, research details for the setting, create it and check the final illustration matches the text.

School librarian Stephen Leitch, who organised the visit, said the one hour session was well received.

He said: "I was delighted to have been able to welcome such a talented illustrator to Keith Grammar School to give a fascinating insight into her work as an illustrator with the students, and to be able to give great advice and guidance for their illustration project.”

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