Maxine Hammen
Illustrator, Children’s Talking Dictionary - Around the house - German
We searched high - and low - for the perfect artist for our German Talking Dictionary series, and suffice it to say, were simply ecstatic when we unearthed the talented Maxine Hammen from Germany.
Maxine obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Intermedia Design from the University of Trier with the hopes of working in the game industry, but soon realized that her passion lied more with picture books, graphic novels and illustration.
Maxine takes inspiration from her favorite movies, TV shows, games, books, and artists, among them The Last Unicorn, The Little Prince, Harry Potter, the Grimm brothers and Hans Christian Andersen.
We are just in love with her ‘traditional’ style, perfectly infused with a unique, modern flare - not to mention her huge heart, devoted to representing in her work, the different ways we humans live:
“Children books are unforgettable treasures from our childhood that help shape the person we’re becoming when we’re growing up, so I believe it’s important for children book illustrators to take into account diversity and representation when they work on a piece. Nowadays there are more and more children books defying gender roles and showcasing diverse kids living adventures and dreaming alike, “ Maxine shared in a former interview.
Her dream is it to illustrate a book that someone will fondly remember as a part of their childhood.
Maxine, here’s to dreams coming true! We’re elated that your first children’s book gets to be with us.
