Hello, I'm Hannah Maia – an illustrator, anthropologist and award-winning filmmaker. As a research-led visual storyteller with an interest in heritage education, I enjoy exploring human experience, landscape, history and adventure. I'm based in the Lake District, UK and inspired by the landscapes of Cumbria and the rhythms of everyday life, my work blends gentle humour with thoughtful, narrative-led illustration.
I create artwork for museums, heritage organisations, publishers, educational projects, creative agencies, businesses and private clients by bringing meaningful, engaging ideas to life. Available for freelance illustration commissions worldwide.
Every project begins with a conversation. You tell me about your idea — the feeling, the audience, the world you’re imagining.
I’m based in Kendal in the Lake District and work across the UK and internationally. I’m happy to take both individual and commercial commissions.
My illustration work is influenced by a background in visual anthropology and documentary storytelling, often exploring themes of landscape, adventure, and the relationship between people and the natural world. I love to collaborate on projects that use my creative eye to make nature or outdoor inspired images which strike the perfect balance between playfulness and practicality.
Children’s Book Illustration
Children’s picture books are a unique collaboration between words and images. where illustration shapes the emotional rhythm of the story.
I work with authors, publishers, and independent creators who are developing illustrated stories.
