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Heli Pohjoisaho

Hi! I’m Heli Pohjoisaho (b. 1990), an illustrator based in Lahti, Finland. Recently, I have worked extensively on international indie children’s books, but I also take on a wide range of other illustration projects.

My work often features expressive, approachable, and sympathetic characters. I find inspiration close to home, mainly from everyday family life.

I work fluently in both Finnish and English, and I aim to keep collaboration as clear and predictable for the client as possible. My schedule varies depending on the project, and I’m happy to respond to any inquiries about my availability.

I mainly work digitally using Procreate and Photoshop, and I also create vector graphics in Illustrator when needed. I aim to bring a subtle traditional, handmade feel into my digital work.

My style is character-driven, focusing on expressiveness and storytelling. My strengths are illustrating children and animals, and clearly conveying emotions.

Tehy, City of Lahti, Lahti Conservatory, Lahti Brass Quintet, The Lahti Diaconia Foundation, JWP Publishing, Diana Mescher / Encountering Hope