Thank you very much for visiting my corner of the internet. My name is Ottilia Stephens and I am a British illustrator, originally from Herefordshire, UK, and currently based in Yokohama, Japan.
I am studying MA Illustration long distance with Falmouth University, UK, and writing and illustrating my first children’s book as an onoging personal project, aiming for publication towards the end of 2019.
I’m passionate about wildlife and the natural world around us. My style is based on analogue methods with a focus on mark-making, but I also use Photoshop and Procreate. Please take a look at my Portfolio, here.
Although illustration is my main passion, as the name of this website suggests, I also scribble in various other areas. Whilst I am aiming to be commissioned primarily for illustration, I am also open to inquiries concerning writing in English, or Japanese to English translation.
Writing
During my work, I frequently write articles, or copywrite for web pages, pamphlets or PR publications. I also write for pleasure on topics relating to culture, illustration, nature, art and Japan. You can see my personal writing in the blog section of my site. If you have anything you feel I could help with, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Japanese Language
I have Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) level N1 (2015), a BA degree in Japanese from University of Leeds (2014), and four years’ experience working with the Japanese language every day as Coordinator for International Relations on the JET Program in Yamaguchi Prefecture and Tokyo, Japan.
I can translate from Japanese to English, and have translated one published book, The World Heritage Sites in Hagi (available from Hagi Museum in Yamaguchi Prefecture). Particular areas of expertise include the Bakumatsu period of Japanese history. I am fluent in Japanese and have worked in JP>EN translation, interpretation and radio to date.