Our Mission & Process
Jean Tori Books is an imprint of Jean Tori Design Ltd.
Mission: Our aim is to create high-quality and beautiful books from Jean’s original artwork. Jean’s incredible use of colour and detail will enthral children and adults alike. Jean’s art is rich in texture and meaning and we believe children, in particular, will enjoy delving into her collages of colour and humour, where their imaginations will be stimulated and intrigued. We create characters who have strong voices surrounded by interesting worlds. Our stories feature themes of exploration, friendship and cooperation.
Artistic process: Jean’s creative process is a combination of bold imagination, technical skill, vivid use of colour based on colour theory, ability for storytelling, observation and sense of humour. One of the reasons Jean’s paintings are even more unique is that she makes her own paper canvases. By applying multiple layers of mulberry paper with a water and flour glue (like papier-mâché), drying each layer, she continually builds up the layers, transforming the canvas into a paper screen. This surface also has a rich texture upon which Jean can paint. First of all, however, Jean’s pencil drawings are finalised and then traced onto tracing paper. The pencil tracing is then transferred onto her paper canvas and once in place she then paints using tempera (gouache) that dries mat. We're in the process of filming both Jean’s paper making and painting process, soon to be viewed on YouTube.
Our Projects
The production of our children's books, under Jean Tori Books, is our main project. However, although Jean works mainly on the illustrations and book covers, she still paints different kinds of artwork incorporating many subjects and styles. It is this present and past collection of her art that also inspires us in the development and creation of other design products, such as a paper 'Leo the Falcon' mobile, and Jean's incredible Christmas illuminated manuscript advent calendar. We are working on many different design areas and the best way to produce products in the most environmentally aware process.