Foto: Heleen Vink

about me

Hi, I’m Coen Hamelink, a Dutch illustrator, teacher and creative mentor living and working in Castricum, a cosy village near Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

I grew up close to the beaches in Zeeland, the south of Holland. Since I was a little boy I always have been drawing, acting all kinds of different theatrical characters and playing music on my guitar and trumpet. Up until this day I have never stopped doing this.

I’m always creating new ideas and concepts, associating and connecting dots and thoughts, playing around and trying out new things. Regularly, I throw myself into the deep to find fresh inspiration and to face a new challenge I can learn from.

My work can be described as theatrical, authentic, full of color and atmosphere with playful details.

My clients vary from international publishers, professional musicians and artists, cultural organizations, animation studios to different kind of businesses.

Since I love to share my knowledge and passion, I also offer creative and business advice to art academy students, aspiring and colleague illustrators.

Do you like to know more about me?

I know enough. Create an illustration for me!

Coen Hamelink is member of Dutch Illustration and BNO

awards & Highlights

• Winner PZC Publieksprijs 2016 | children’s book De Tuinen van Ginder
• Finalist Zinnen Roës Award 2016 | children’s book De Tuinen van Ginder
• International Educational Learning Resources Award 2014/2015 project Bingel
• London Book Fair International Excellence Award 2014/2015 project Bingel
• New York 3×3 Magazine | International picture book show | 2014/2015
• London Showcase 100 | illustration exhibition | 2014/2015
• 200 Best Illustrators Worldwide 09/10′ | Luerzer’s Archive | 2009

published children’s books