Becky_Aitken.jpg

hi!

I’m an illustrator and arts educator located in Seattle, Washington. Children’s illustration, portraiture, and creation of craft experiences are my sweet spot. My original art love is painting, but over the years I’ve experimented with still-life illustration created from found objects, short animations, and exploring crafting supplies. I enjoy the visual surprises that come with experimenting in new techniques and media. My hope is to use arts and crafts to bring a small piece of joy into the world to those viewing my work and those engaging the craft experiences I create. 

I teach a variety of art classes at Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington. Additionally, I collaborate with the Seattle Symphony’s Education and Community Engagement department on all things visual, including illustrations and slideshows for their Family Programming, and creating craft experiences that engage and enhance the listening experience for patrons of all ages at the Symphony.

I’m open to new projects, collaborations, and commissions! Please contact me to discuss your project. 

Instagram
Vimeo

I’d love to hear from you!


brief resume

  • 2013–now: freelance illustrator and designer based in Seattle, WA

  • 2015–now: adjunct faculty at Northwest University (drawing, painting, photography, intro to art and design, graphic design, web design)

  • 2013–now: contract visual arts specialist with the Seattle Symphony’s Education and Community Development department

  • 2013–2104: instructor at Trinity Western University (illustration, graphic design, typography, layout design)

  • 2010–2012: MFA in illustration from Savannah College of Art and Design

  • 2006–2010: K–12 art instructor at Wuhan Yangtze International School

  • 2005–2006: art and afterschool coordinator at

  • 2004–2005: studio assistant to Tom Buechner, portrait painter

  • 2000–2004: BA in fine arts from Houghton College (concentrations in ceramics and painting)

selected clients

  • Seattle Symphony

  • Keatley Photo

  • Monson Group

  • Greg Dember

  • Sage Run

  • Sanctuary Church

exhibitions and residencies

  • 2018: Things That Break

  • 2018: Every Single Day

  • 2016–2017: Cascadia Residency, Letters to my Momma

  • 2017: All of Us Belong

  • 2014: Creature Comforts

  • 2013: Houghton College Alumni Show

  • 2012: Gradustration

  • 2010: Urban Legends

  • 2010: A Tribute to Tom Buechner

awards

  • 2014: International Motion Art Awards 3 selected winner

  • 2010: American Illustration 32 Annual selected winner 

  • 2010: Applied Arts Annual Student Awards winner