PHOTO: Natalia Morris, author and illustrator of Quest for Cookies, captured in a beautiful moment by photographer Kyle Morris.
Exploring Whimsy, Family, And Cultural Connections Through Art
Natalia Morris, author and illustrator of Quest for Cookies, shares insights into her creative process, family connections, and the heartfelt inspiration that brings her whimsical stories and captivating illustrations to life.
Natalia Morris, author and illustrator of Quest for Cookies, continues to captivate audiences with her heartfelt storytelling and whimsical artistry. Her work as a creator goes beyond the surface of words and images, offering layers of warmth, imagination, and personal connection. With an unmistakable voice and a visual style that dances vibrantly on every page, Natalia’s journey into children’s literature has become a celebration of creativity rooted in authenticity and love.
Quest for Cookies, her debut as both an author and illustrator, showcases Natalia’s ability to infuse universal themes, playful rhymes, and expressive illustrations into one compelling package. Inspired by her grandmother’s lavender cookies and the bonds shared across generations, the story combines personal memories with multicultural elements to deliver a narrative that resonates with readers of all ages. Natalia explains that her gnome protagonist, Gnomey, reflects her belief that stories rooted in real-world experiences have the power to forge deeper connections with audiences.
Natalia Morris weaves heart, imagination, and cultural depth into her stories, creating timeless works that resonate with readers of all ages.
In addition to weaving meaningful narratives, Natalia approaches her illustrations with meticulous care and distinct techniques. Using Procreate on her iPad, she crafted the enchanting visuals of the gnome’s adventures. Her illustration style, influenced by a Domestika course led by Ramona Wultschner and her Fine Art studies, focuses on working holistically—ensuring cohesion throughout every piece. This thoughtful technique allowed her to build worlds that feel alive and immersive, striking a balance between detail and emotional vibrancy.
Natalia’s artistic and narrative accomplishments have already made waves in the world of children’s literature. Upon Quest for Cookies hitting #1 in the multicultural children’s book charts, she was invited to illustrate You Are Not Your Meltdown by Desirea Binning. Tackling a new artistic style pushed her creative boundaries, igniting her passion for illustration even further. Since reaching this milestone, Natalia has expanded her portfolio, developed her website, and embraced her identity as a professional children’s book illustrator.
The book’s arrival in libraries—where it immediately generated eight holds—felt deeply affirming for Natalia, representing not only the demand for her work but the impact of her creative vision. “It honestly felt like a warm hug from the universe,” she reflects. The experience reinforced her belief in her path, inspiring her to continue exploring new creative horizons.
Baking, a recurring theme in Natalia’s personal and creative life, plays a significant role in Quest for Cookies. Lavender cookies, raspberry muffins, and carrot cake featured in the book come directly from her family’s kitchen. Whether baking with her husband and daughter or celebrating recipes inherited from generations, Natalia allows these experiences to infuse her storytelling, making her work feel deeply personal and universal at once.
Natalia’s approach as both an author and illustrator strikes a unique balance between narrative pacing and visual rhythm. Her creative process begins with illustration—crafting the visuals first and then shaping the story to complement the art. This method ensures that both elements feel seamlessly interconnected on the page, delivering a cohesive experience that delights readers.
Pushing through challenges, such as creating the spooky mushroom forest in Quest for Cookies, also highlights Natalia’s resilience. She committed to several “mushroom studies” to bring her vision to life, demonstrating the importance of persistence and creative determination in her work.
With her success as an author-illustrator, Natalia shares powerful advice for aspiring creators: “Only make something if you really believe in your product. If you are producing something that does not come from your heart, it will show. Create something because you have a vision and love what you do. Love your work, and others will too.”
Natalia Morris is an undeniable force in the world of storytelling and illustration. Through her vibrant creations, she invites everyone—children and adults alike—into her whimsical worlds that celebrate curiosity, connection, and the beauty of heartfelt tales.
Source: Reader’s House Magazine
