My interest in printmaking began while researching the history of book illustration for a bachelor's degree thesis. This led to study and employment in pre-digital commercial printing.

I have enjoyed and will continue working on fine letterpress printing projects with handset type and my wood engravings. This process is challenging and it is a welcome contrast to sitting at a computer.

Our world can use frequent doses of truth and humor. I aim to offer both as my skills evolve in traditional and digital illustration media.

I welcome opportunities for children's book and magazine illustration, book design and production, graphic design, letterpress printing and workshops.

Most of my work is available for purchase. Please email with queries about any images on this site that interest you.

Email: illustration@colleendwire.com

affiliations and education:
Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators
Wood Engravers Network
Petaluma Arts Council
Institute of Children's Literature
Two Year Diploma in Printing, Danville Community College, Danville, Virginia
BA, University of California at Berkeley, "Literature and its Illustration"