Lara Porter
Illustrator of Picture Books
based in NSW
Lara is a South African-born children’s book illustrator based in Sydney. Her creative journey began in advertising, where she worked internationally as a designer and art director. After a decade in corporate life, she pursued her passion for illustration, earning a BA Honours Degree in the UK before transitioning to freelancing.
During the pandemic, Lara discovered her true calling – creating children’s books. Since then, she has won three CYA Illustrator Awards and one NEWC Illustration Prize, most recently placing first in the “published” category of the 2024 CYA Illustrator Awards.
Her debut picture book, Fun in the Sun (2023), written by Sydney dermatologist Dr. Annika Smith, is set at Balmoral Beach. Endorsed by the Cancer Council and Melanoma Institute of Australia, it promotes sun safety for young readers.
Her second picture book, Running with Wings (2024), written by renowned sports journalist Sam Squiers and published by New Frontier, was released in Australia and the UK. Created in consultation with the CP Alliance, it features a young girl with cerebral palsy, championing inclusivity, determination and friendship.
Beyond illustration, Lara loves sharing her passion with young minds, delivering engaging talks and workshops for school children from kindergarten to high school.
