Hi, I’m Ken Crossland—an art director, illustrator, and storyteller with over a decade of experience shaping thoughtful, emotionally grounded design.

My work spans bestselling children’s books, brand launches, product lines, podcasts, and original IP. At Penguin Random House, I art directed award-winning titles across genres, guiding projects from concept through production. I also founded The Lobster Studio, a stationery and gift brand built on illustration, product development, and licensing.

In recent years, I’ve developed a range of brand platforms—including SHIFT, Folio Botanica, Fox & Fern, and Adulting for Artists—each exploring how storytelling and visual identity intersect across culture, commerce, and emotion.

My work at PRH taught me structure, but the past few years have been about rediscovering play. The work I create now lives at that intersection — where storytelling meets systems, and design carries emotional truth.

I live in New York City with my daughter and am currently open to full-time roles, creative collaborations, and brand development opportunities.