My name is PiaSusanne. I’m an illustrator and experienced educator with over 20 years of work as a special education teacher. Throughout my career, I have worked with children and young people aged 1 to 18, and this lifelong experience shines through in my illustrations – bringing sensitivity, warmth, and a deep understanding of the child’s world.
My illustrations are expressive, narrative-driven, and often gently playful – building bridges to emotion, imagination, and connection. One of my most notable works is the children’s book “Iik, iso A tuli taloon” (Basam Books, written by Piia Heikkinen), which deals with sensory overload and big everyday emotions. These are themes I have encountered often in my work with children, and I was able to bring real-life insight into the visual storytelling.
I’ve also created illustrations for collaborative projects, such as with Luonto-Liitto and the joint literacy initiative of Kirkkonummi Library and Child Health Clinic, where my artwork supports early reading and family interaction as part of a “reading prescription” for young children.
I also design and handcraft my own illustrated products – such as wooden puzzles and memory games – using sustainably sourced Finnish materials. I work with care, quality, and heart – every image I create is a bridge toward understanding and joy.
I’m currently looking for illustration projects where I can combine my deep knowledge of childhood with strong visual storytelling and emotional resonance. I am a precise, reliable, and imaginative illustrator who brings heart to every project – whether it’s a picture book, educational content, or a product designed for children.
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I contributed illustrations to the Reading Prescription project by the municipality of Kirkkonummi, a collaboration between the local library and child health clinics that encourages early reading and shared storytime within families.
As part of the project, families with 2- and 4-year-old children receive a “reading prescription” during health clinic visits. It includes an illustrated print and supporting materials designed to inspire children to explore books and remind adults of the value of reading aloud and spending time together through stories.
My illustrations for the project were warm, child-friendly, and visually engaging – helping create an inviting atmosphere that supports interaction, curiosity, and joy in reading. The visuals were carefully crafted to make the first reading moments feel approachable and positive for both children and their caregivers.
Iik, iso A tuli taloon (“Yikes, Big A Moved In”)
(Basam Books, 2024 — written by Piia Heikkinen, illustrated by Pia Holmberg)
A 72-page richly illustrated children’s book that tackles climate anxiety from a child’s perspective — with warmth, humor, and a sense of hope.
At Topi’s home, climate change is everywhere: his mom talks about microplastics, palm oil, and carbon footprints — and now she wants to give up hamburgers and flying too. The weight of environmental worry starts to reach Topi as well… until a big, smelly creature appears in his room. It’s Ekoapuri, or “Big A” — a gentle giant on a mission to awaken people to the Earth’s troubles and inspire hopeful action.
This heartfelt and relatable story helps children (and adults) understand that even small actions matter, and that we can face big challenges with hope instead of fear. With expressive illustrations on every page, the book offers an engaging and age-appropriate way to talk about climate issues at home, in schools, and in early education.
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