Clare Cudmore-Neame
Kia ora, ko Clare tōku ingoa,
I have always loved storytelling and New Zealand’s native bat, the Pekapeka.
When I was a child I wanted to grow up to be a bat scientist. This didn’t happen, but I have been making art about bats, and other native animals, my whole life. From bronze bats and glass moths, while studying fine arts at university, to drawing birds for an unpublished card game and for textile art projects.
I love collaborating on art projects, so the opportunity to create a picture book with Cat was a thrilling prospect. We met while working as Children and Youth Librarians and got on instantly. Matt the Bat has grown from this connection and love of storytelling, I am so excited to share it with you all.
What is it about your chosen genre that you love?
I love exploring storytelling in different mediums. My art practice is inspired by the way written word and image work together. There is a magic in the way they compliment each other.
Working in libraries, it was a privilege and joy to watch tamariki grow as readers. I wanted to create a beautiful and meaningful visual story, to compliment Cat’s creativity.