Mapperley has a superb illustrator in our midst.
This original artwork is intended to bring a smile. It is available too, in the form of gifts, clothes and prints that bring joy and colour to everyday.
Ruth Woodcock is from Gedling and uses the name Freckled Ferret for her illustrations:
Ruth tells us:
I suppose it was something like ‘Life begins at 60’. After 34 years working for a large public sector organisation, I changed direction and took up illustrating and writing, which was always my dream.
By chance I met Phil James from the dog rescue charity Drone to Home through Chameleon Design and Print (who sell my artwork as prints and other gifts).
A lovely idea came about to produce a children’s book that tells the story about how dogs can go missing and how Drone to Home helps find them.
I’m a dog owner myself and I know how traumatic it can be when a dog goes missing. My illustrations take inspiration from my dogs.
Mo is my own second-hand pup who is a fluffy mess. I call her a miniature Wolfhound however she’s actually a Patterdale mix. She is crazy, manic and my best friend. I then gained Ted another second-hand Chihuahua. He’s a very personable little chap who can sleep in any position. I then met Travis, a scent trained Labrador and the books took shape.
I’ve tried to create a little humour in the books (the throw-balls hanging in the tree, we’ve all done that haven’t we!). Then there’s the message about what to do if your dog gets lost. It’s my way of supporting Drone To Home. The work the team does is amazing. They are a wonderful team of volunteers. The positivity and energy everyone gives is commendable.
The books are available on Amazon and on the Drone To Home website