Fan Brothers

The Fan Brothers, Eric and Terry, were born in the United States but have spent most of their lives in Toronto. Before embarking on their acclaimed children's book career, they worked in various creative roles, including t-shirt design. Their debut picture book, The Night Gardener—inspired by one of their most popular t-shirt illustrations—earned them the Society of Illustrators’ prestigious Dilys Evans Founder’s Award in 2016, recognizing them as the most promising new talent in children’s book illustration. Shortly thereafter, they were honored as Sendak Fellows, receiving an immersive month-long residency at the late Maurice Sendak’s rural estate.

With a distinctive style described as whimsical, surreal, nostalgic, detailed, moody, and mysterious, The Fan Brothers blend traditional techniques with digital media to create uniquely captivating visuals. They gravitate towards stories where the ordinary intersects with the fantastical, sparking imagination and evoking a profound sense of wonder. Their work often delves into multilayered, poetic themes that celebrate the magic in everyday life, and they eagerly anticipate pushing the boundaries of picture books even further through boldly experimental projects.

When they're not creating, Eric and Terry enjoy long walks, cooking, and traveling. They find inspiration and joy in their father’s pottery, their mother’s harp recordings, poetry, plants, pasta, Belgian chocolates, and antique marbles.