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Cate James Illustration
Book Illustrator, Designer and Artist
About Cate
Cate is an award-winning illustrator and printmaker from Sydney and Edinburgh. When she's not working in her Northern Beaches studio she will be most likely be in a print workshop, a school or a swimming pool.
Cate likes to stay artistically active and to encourage and inspire new generations of artists. She works as a mentor to emerging illustrators, a lecturer, a print technician and visits schools to talk about illustration.
Illustrator: Over 50 published picture books with Penguin Random House, Affirm Press, Walker Books, Scholastic and more.
To book a visit for your school or library please contact Booked Out Speakers Agency
University of New South Wales: Academic - teaching in the printmaking and screen printing workshops. 2023 to date
University of New South Wales: Technical Officer in printmaking and screen printing workshops. 2018 to date
Edinburgh Children's Hospital Charity: Illustrator in Residence 2013-2017
Latest Book Releases
the boy & the shark
Written by Cate James
Affirm Press 2026
William is stuck at his little sister's
noisy birthday party.
William does not like parties.
William likes sharks.
He wonders if sharks do not like
parties either. Maybe he should find one and ask...
"From Cate James comes a timeless adventure full of curiosity, surprises and friendship"
mary fowler series
Written with Jasmine McGaughey
Penguin Books 2026
Today, Mary can’t wait to get to school. She has an exciting surprise to share with her friends.
But when something unexpected happens, Mary and the crew must work together to solve the problem and get back to what they love best – playing sport and having fun.
From Mary Fowler, the most influential woman in Australian sport, comes a joyous new junior fiction series to engage, inspire and humour emerging readers aged six to nine.
dear broccoli
*CBCA SHORTLIST 2026*
Written by Jo Dabrowski
Affirm Press 2025
Dear Broccoli,
Last night at dinner you were on my plate. AGAIN. Please don't come back.
From,
Frank.
Dear Frank,
I am afraid I cannot grant your request. The matter is out of my florets.
Most respectful regards,
Broccoli
A deliciously funny picture book that is sure to make even the pickiest of eaters look at their dinner in a new light.
School Visits
Preschool to Y6
With years of experience visiting schools, Cate loves speaking to primary students about picture books and illustration. Her sessions are very interactive and students will leave with a pile of new drawings and ideas.
Cate is usually very busy during Book Week so book early.
Whether you have one class or a whole school to work with, Cate is happy to tailor her visit to your requirements.
Adult workshops and events
Cate is always keen to speak to audiences of all kinds about her work as an illustrator, and to facilitate workshops of all sizes.
With a background in printmaking, teaching and lecturing, Cate can work with you to create a session of making and learning that fits your needs, on a wide range of topics.
Hospitals, libraries, art schools, universities, wherever you need an art facilitator, Cate can come and visit.
Get in Touch
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