About me

How it all started

Back in 2019, I was stuck in a job where I was undervalued, underpaid, and overworked. One day, I had a panic attack at work. That night, I pulled into my driveway and sat in my car, crying. That’s when I realised, I needed to make a change. I wanted a joyful life full of creativity.

So, I quit my job and joined a wonderful team of people at Ad Esse Consulting where I’m truly valued for doing work that I love. They encouraged my personal development, and this led to me starting my freelance illustration business and self-publishing my first book, The Dog, The Bird, The Book. Continuously pushing myself further, I stepped far outside my comfort zone and performed a TEDx talk as part of the TEDxNorthwich speaker programme, sharing my big idea of using art as an escape from busy lives. You can watch my talk here - Everyday Art: Pencilling in Moments of Creativity.

How I became a Sketchnote Artist

With a background in marketing and no formal art training, I started experimenting with taking visual notes whilst watching webinars and listening to podcasts. I stumbled across sketchnotes before I knew what sketchnotes were. I started sharing my artwork on my Instagram microblog and an Events Marketing Manager spotted them and commissioned me for her next event.

Since that first opportunity, I began pitching for work and have created sketchnotes, books, podcast episodes, webinars, businesses, and more. Take a look at examples of my work here. For more about my process and how to engage your audience further, read my ultimate guide to sketchnotes here.

The beginning of my Illustrator and Author journey

Whilst I stumbled across sketchnotes, I always wanted to write and illustrate my own books from being a child. I’m proud to say my illustrations now feature in published books, such as ChangeStories by Dr Susanne Evans, and There She Rows by Eleanor Reynolds. After years of frustration from failing to complete my own book, I finally finished writing and illustrating my first book, The Dog, The Bird, The Book. The story follows Doodle Dog on the scenic route to becoming a first-time Author and is full of cosy moments, creativity, and heart-warming friendships. Learn more about the book and get a signed paperback here.

I was so excited to get my book into the hands of readers, I self-published and launched the book during the Autum Book and Craft Fair at the Derby Market Hall. This project was a personal challenge to see if I was capable of completing a book (I am! Woohoo!) and the floodgates are now open.

I’m currently working on a chapter book series for creative 9-12 year olds, which will be traditionally published. Parents and kids who are interested in creativity, step this way.

A life full of creativity

My career as an Illustrator, Author, and Sketchnote Artist brings me so much joy and I’m continuously improving every day. If you’re ever in need of a brief escape from your busy life, take a moment to enjoy my Substack newsletter, The Creative Tea Break. I regularly share news, thoughts, and resources for creativity and wellbeing.

Thank you for reading this far. It would be great to get to know you too. I’d love to connect on LinkedIn and Instagram. Or introduce yourself by emailing hello@SamWarburton.com. Let’s keep in touch.