A children’s counting book, produced to complete a Bachelor of Design course in 1982, was the starting point of Kerry Argent’s illustrious career as a children’s book illustrator. This book, published by Omnibus Books, was the highly acclaimed One Woolly Wombat, which is now regarded as a classic Australian counting book.
Kerry’s artwork has gained worldwide recognition. Who could forget A Bush Birthday; Sebastian Lives in a Hat (Whitley Award-winner in 1985 and Children’s Book Council Short-listed Picture Book of the Year in 1986); Derek the Dinosaur; Thank You Santa; and Gotcha!? Kerry’s illustrations are particularly popular with children. Her most distinctive traits as an artist are her soft, rich colour work using coloured pencils or watercolour and pen and ink, and the warmth and humour with which she captures the endearing characteristics of animals.
The enchanting bush Nativity story Wombat Divine, written by Mem Fox and illustrated by Kerry Argent, was an Australian Christmas bestseller for both 1995 and 1996.
“Please the child within yourself” is Kerry’s often-quoted advice to young illustrators.
Kerry Argent’s wonderful illustrations of a wombat sunbathing, kangaroos dancing, kookaburras writing riddles and dingoes playing with yo-yos have stood the test of time—and are as fresh today as ever.