Student artist joins publishing world

Twenty-two year old Charles Tomlinson is on his way to a glittering art career after receiving a commission as book illustrator whilst still studying at Bedford College.

Novelist Katie Paterson needed illustrations for her book “The Jewels of Valonia”, to reflect the story about 12 year old twins who embark on a mystical adventure where everything is far from what it seems.  Charles provided an illustration for the book cover and Katie was so delighted that he was offered the commission to illustrate the series of three books. 

Charles has just completed a two year National Diploma in Fine Art at Bedford College. He explained that his GCSE grades from school didn’t come up to the course entry requirements and said:

“I knew I had the skill but had not put the effort in at school.  Bedford College gave me a chance and I’ll always be grateful for that.  They believed I could do it and accepted me onto the course.”

Charles has now been offered a place to study BA Fine Art Painting at Wimbledon College of Art, one of the most prestigious art colleges in the country.

He added:

“The course at Bedford College has given me a good structure and basis to learn from.  It is a really good introductory course into the fine art world.  I will leave Bedford College with a Diploma and the equivalent of GCSE C grade in English and Maths.  I’ve gone from the bottom to being ahead of the game.

“The lecturers are very supportive.  They are a very close team and their relationship with tutors and students is very strong throughout the College.

“I would say to anyone thinking of coming to Bedford College – come with an open mind ready to try new things.  If you put in the effort you can achieve your dreams.”

With the doors of the art world opening for Charles, he sees his future career as a fine artist exhibiting in top galleries in the country and perhaps even world-wide.

He explained:

“I would like to create my own movement or pioneer something in the art world.

“My plan is to continuing illustrating to help support me financially as I continue to concentrate on a fine art career.  Artists often have to get other jobs to support their art ambitions.  If I can concentrate purely on art I will have a good chance of achieving my dream of exhibiting in galleries around the world.

“Bedford College has given me an excellent starting block for my career."

Find out more about Art, Design & Media courses at Bedford College.