I’m a South African children’s illustrator and author who creates warm, expressive, and imaginative artwork for picture books. My stories and illustrations are inspired by African wildlife, landscapes, and folklore, capturing emotion, courage, and kindness through colour and character. I’ve written and illustrated several children’s books, including Amahle’s Choice and Popcorn’s Secret for Facing Fears, and co-created The Lonely Weaver’s Best Nest with my daughter, Jaimee. I also collaborate with other authors to bring their stories to life with heart and personality. I work primarily in digital illustration (Procreate and mixed media), creating charming, character-driven visuals that connect deeply with young readers.

I’m a South African children’s illustrator and author who creates warm, expressive, and imaginative artwork for picture books. My stories and illustrations are inspired by African wildlife, landscapes, and folklore, capturing emotion, courage, and kindness through colour and character. I’ve written and illustrated several children’s books, including Amahle’s Choice and Popcorn’s Secret for Facing Fears, and co-created The Lonely Weaver’s Best Nest with my daughter, Jaimee. I also collaborate with other authors to bring their stories to life with heart and personality. I work primarily in digital illustration (Procreate and mixed media), creating charming, character-driven visuals that connect deeply with young readers.

Available to hire

I’m a South African children’s illustrator and author who creates warm, expressive, and imaginative artwork for picture books. My stories and illustrations are inspired by African wildlife, landscapes, and folklore, capturing emotion, courage, and kindness through colour and character.

I’ve written and illustrated several children’s books, including Amahle’s Choice and Popcorn’s Secret for Facing Fears, and co-created The Lonely Weaver’s Best Nest with my daughter, Jaimee. I also collaborate with other authors to bring their stories to life with heart and personality.

I work primarily in digital illustration (Procreate and mixed media), creating charming, character-driven visuals that connect deeply with young readers.

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Language

English
Fluent
Afrikaans
Intermediate

Work Experience

Freelance Illustrator & Author at Self-employed
January 1, 2019 - Present
Creator and illustrator of The African Fairy Adventure series: Imi’s Sore Tooth; A Nighttime Adventure; The Cheeky Drongo and the Meerkats; The Perfect Gift. Co-author and illustrator (with daughter Jaimee Obertik) of The Lonely Weaver’s Best Nest. Author and illustrator of standalone titles: Amahle’s Choice; Popcorn’s Secret for Facing Fears. Illustrator for other authors: The Baboon, the Dassie and the Berries; Salma and Salman Fast in Ramadan; Middleberg East; Oh-Me-Oh-My – A Hero Yorkie Dog and His Bullies; God’s Perfect Gift; Finding Love and Family in Special Places
Grade 00 and Grade 0 Teacher at Crawford Pre-Primary (Fourways & Sandton)
December 31, 2019 - October 8, 2025
Over 20 years of experience nurturing creativity and literacy in children. Developed art-integrated teaching methods to inspire storytelling and imagination.
Principal at Berea West Pre-Primary
December 31, 2019 - October 8, 2025
Educational leadership and school administration.
Grade 1 & 2 Educator at Berea West Preparatory School
December 31, 2019 - October 8, 2025
Teaching Grade 1 & 2.
Nursery and Grade R Educator at Montpelier Pre-Primary
December 31, 2019 - October 8, 2025
Early childhood education and literacy activities.
Grade R and Grade 1 Educator at Clarence Primary School
December 31, 2019 - October 8, 2025
Grade R and Grade 1 instruction and creative activities.

Education

Higher Diploma in Education (Junior Primary Studies) at South African College of Open Learning (M+4)
January 11, 2030 - October 8, 2025
Diploma in Junior Primary Studies at Durban College of Education (M+3)
January 11, 2030 - October 8, 2025

Qualifications

Higher Diploma in Education (Junior Primary Studies)
January 11, 2030 - October 8, 2025
Diploma in Junior Primary Studies
January 11, 2030 - October 8, 2025

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment
    paper portfolio
    Hi my name is Nicola Obertik and here is a copy of my portfolio. I’m a South African children’s illustrator and author who creates warm, expressive, and imaginative artwork for picture books. My stories and illustrations are inspired by African wildlife, landscapes, and folklore, capturing emotion, courage, and kindness through colour and character. I’ve written and illustrated several children’s books, including Amahle’s Choice and Popcorn’s Secret for Facing Fears, and co-created The Lonely Weaver’s Best Nest with my daughter, Jaimee. I also collaborate with other authors to bring their stories to life with heart and personality. I work primarily in digital illustration (Procreate and mixed media), creating charming, character-driven visuals that connect deeply with young readers. resume illustrator

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