Charles van Sandwyk facts for kids
Charles Noel van Sandwyk (born in 1966) is a talented Canadian artist, illustrator, and writer. He is known for his beautiful and detailed artwork, often featuring fairies, animals, and magical scenes.
Early Life and Artistic Journey
Charles van Sandwyk was born in South Africa. He grew up around art because his father was a graphic designer. When Charles was 12, his family moved to Canada. They settled in a place called Deep Cove in North Vancouver, British Columbia.
During high school, Charles was quite a performer! He earned money by doing magic tricks and riding a unicycle for children. He started showing his artistic skills very early, even in elementary school. He was especially good at calligraphy, which is the art of fancy handwriting. He still uses this skill in his illustrations today. As a teenager, he began experimenting with making art by etching designs onto copper plates. This helped him find his own special way of creating art. He later studied commercial art at Capilano College.
When he was 19, Charles traveled to Fiji and fell in love with the South Pacific. For many years, he would spend several months each year on a tiny island called Tavewa. This island is about five hours away by boat from Fiji's main island, Viti Levu.
His Art and Books
Charles van Sandwyk's amazing paintings can be seen in the National Library of Canada. They are also part of many important private art collections. He has written and illustrated several of his own books, including The Parade to Paradise, How to See Fairies, and Sketches from the Dream Island of Birds.
He has also drawn pictures for special editions of classic books published by the Folio Society. These include The Blue Fairy Book and The Wind in the Willows. A special edition of his own book, How to See Fairies, was also published by the Folio Society in 2018.
A Look at His Publications
Charles van Sandwyk has created many wonderful books over the years. These often feature his unique illustrations and stories. Here are a few examples of his published works:
- Selection of Neighbourly Birds of the New World (Canada) (1987)
- How to See Fairies (1993)
- Sketches From the Dream Island of Birds (1995)
- Van Sandwyk's Pocket Guide to the Little People (1997)
- The Gnome King's Treasure Song (2000)
- The Meaning of Mice (2002)
- Mr. Rabbit's Christmas Wish (2004)
- Mr Rabbit's Symphony of Nature (2008)
- The Fairy Market (2009)
- Full Moon Eyes: An Ode to the Forbearance of Owls (2012)
