A Derry illustrator says losing his job during Covid pushed him to pursue his passion, set up his own business and launch his first children’s book.
Rory Quigg (31) said he knew he always wanted to “do something creative” but it wasn’t until he lost his job that he started thinking about a change of career.
“I wasn’t sure if anything was ever going to come from my drawings,” says Rory, who studied graphic design and illustration at Ulster University.
“I didn’t know any illustrators or anyone who was doing that sort of thing full-time so I almost didn’t see it as an option.
“So, I was working in retail and other jobs for a few years and did some drawings for friends, family and colleagues on the side.
“But it wasn’t until I lost my job during the pandemic and I was confined to the house that I started drawing properly - and then people started buying them and it just blew up.”
Since working as a full-time illustrator, Rory has been commissioned to design and draw several children’s books which inspired him to launch his own.
“This time last year I worked on a kids’ book for a company called Fortus and I absolutely loved it. So, I knew this year I wanted to do something that was completely my own,” he said.
Rory illustrates a personalised story where customers can choose the main character’s name, gender and what they look like (from the 10 variations available).
The story follows an excited child on Christmas Eve taking in all the festive sights and smells while waiting for Santa to arrive.
“It really just highlights the simple pleasures a lot of us enjoy on Christmas Eve,” Rory explained.
“It’s almost like my version of The Night Before Christmas and all those traditions - it’s not overly detailed but I think that gives it more universal appeal.
“I want it to be relatable and bring back memories of childhood Christmases.”
Although Rory wrote and illustrated the book in September he admitted the process did get him into the festive spirit.
“It was strange thinking about Christmas that far in advance but it’s been such a nice experience because it reminded me of all my Christmas Eves when I was growing up.”
He hopes reading the book will become an annual tradition for those buying it for their children.
“There’s been a lot of orders from people who have just had babies.
“Obviously the child in my book is aged around five but I feel like that’s a lovely thing because in the next few years when their baby is a bit older they’ll have that to read at Christmas time.
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“I’m just absolutely delighted with the reaction.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Rory says the experience has encouraged him to experiment more with his art.
“I’d love to work on more projects like the book and build a bigger brand for myself.
“But the ideas I have would take a good bit of work so I’d maybe have to start planning a lot earlier next year,” he laughs.
“But I’m so grateful that the book has gone down so well and the orders have kept coming in.
“I would absolutely love it to become an annual Christmas tradition.”
See more of Rory’s work at roryquigg.com
