Gildlings introduces: Nan Cao
Gildlings introduces: Nan Cao

Nan at work in her studio

Work-in-progress
Welcoming the wonderful Nan Cao to the Gildlings roster!
Welcoming the wonderful Nan Cao to the Gildlings roster!
Based between Beijing and New York City, Nan Cao's work often explores the space between these two worlds, weaving together the energy of city life with memories of a childhood spent in nature. She uses watercolor, gouache, digital collage, and mixed media to create richly textured illustrations full of warmth, atmosphere, and wonder.
As both an author and illustrator, Nan has a particular gift for visual storytelling. She is the creator of When We Were Snails (Crown Books / Penguin Random House), and has collaborated with a wide range of publishers, magazines, and cultural institutions internationally. Her work has been recognised by the Society of Illustrators, Communication Arts, the Association of Illustrators, American Illustration, and the South Asia Book Award.
When she’s not in the studio, Nan can usually be found browsing local markets, reading from her ever-growing book collection, swimming, or taking long walks with her family.
We love the emotional richness and gorgeous use of colour found in Nan’s work, and we can’t wait to see what she does next!





