Brand New Christmas Cards Designed by Cambridge School of Art Illustration Students

Earlier this year, we set an open brief for the 2024 graduates of the MA Children’s Book Illustration course at Cambridge School of Art (Anglia Ruskin University) to design a festive greetings card for the Kettle’s Yard shop. We’re delighted to present the three winning designs, which will be available to buy this Christmas.

This project has been kindly supported by King & McGaw.

Introduce yourself

My name is Gina Kim, and I graduated in 2024 from the Cambridge School of Art, where I studied Children’s Book Illustration. I am deeply passionate about crafting stories that blend the ordinary world with the fantastical, weaving elements of daily life into realms of imagination. I am particularly drawn to small, imperfect, and often overlooked characters – those who may seem insignificant but possess a quiet resilience and charm. A major source of my inspiration is my grandmother, whose warmth and wisdom continue to influence my creative process. Through my work, I aspire to create books that offer messages of comfort, encouragement, and hope, bringing a sense of solace and gentle inspiration to readers of all ages.

Tell us about your design and what inspired it

Kettle’s Yard has inspired me in many ways, from the building’s exterior to its carefully curated interior collections. For my design, I chose an iconic piece that immediately evokes Kettle’s Yard: The Dancer sculpture. I aimed to capture the atmosphere of the room where it’s displayed, adding a modern and festive touch. To keep the design in harmony with the overall feel of Kettle’s Yard, I drew inspiration from the colours and mood of many pieces in the collection, ensuring that the tone stayed cohesive. I also incorporated elements that evoke the warmth of Christmas, creating a design that feels both modern and festive, while staying true to the spirit of the space.

What’s your favourite thing about Kettle’s Yard?

One of the things I love most about Kettle’s Yard is how it perfectly blends art and life. Walking through the house feels like stepping into the personal world of Jim Ede, where art isn’t just displayed but truly lived with. The carefully curated modernist artworks, from Gaudier-Brzeska sculptures to Alfred Wallis paintings, are arranged in such a thoughtful, home-like setting that it’s easy to feel connected to them. The mix of ceramics, sculptures, and found objects makes each room feel alive and unique.

Because of the warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a friendly home, I have cherished memories of drawing with friends at Kettle’s Yard during my school days. These experiences deepened my appreciation for the space, making it not just a gallery, but a beloved place of creativity and connection.

Introduce yourself

I’m Heidi Burton, a British-Finnish illustrator living in Cambridge, UK. I recently graduated with an MA in Children’s Book Illustration from Cambridge School of Art.

Tell us about your design and what inspired it

My card design is inspired by the wintry scenes I’ve witnessed on Castle Street and outside Kettle’s Yard over the years. It also continues a theme from a recent Cambridge-based picturebook project I created for my Masters by incorporating the local foxes!

What’s your favourite thing about Kettle’s Yard?

My favourite thing about Kettle’s Yard is the gallery space. Having been a Cambridge resident for most of my life, I’ve been fortunate enough to visit a variety of exhibitions at Kettle’s Yard since the 1990s. There’s always something interesting to see, and it’s a top spot to take visitors!

Introduce yourself

Hi, I am Caicai. I love to draw nature, animals, and children. Sometimes, a painting can convey the power of healing, which is also my motivation to create my artwork.

Tell us about your design and what inspired it

I was inspired by a particular window at the corner of the stairs in Kettle’s Yard. The first time I saw it, I thought it was particularly festive. It conveys an atmosphere of warmth and peace, which I expect from a ‘holiday’ blessing. I hope this card can express blessings to people.

What’s your favourite thing about Kettle’s Yard?

The detail and the ingenuity. I love the surprises I get from the furnishings in every corner. Walking in Kettle’s Yard is like walking into a treasure hunt, where you’re exploring and getting a gift of mind.