The Art of Falling in Love
To celebrate our Locked Library Classics edition of Pride and Prejudice, we spoke with illustrator Lauren Bultman about capturing the romance, wit and timeless charm of Jane Austen’s beloved novel. From first impressions to matters of the heart, discover the creative inspiration behind an edition that brings Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy’s unforgettable love story to life.![]()
Your illustrations have such a distinctive style. How did you develop your artistic voice, and what influences have shaped the way you create your work?
Throughout the years my artistic style has changed in many ways. I love creating pieces inspired by my favourite stories and getting into classic literature introduced me to so many brilliant artists and storytellers that influenced my style. I especially adore older illustrated copies of classics and look for them anytime I’m in a bookstore. I would say my main influences are illustrators such as Cicely Mary Barker and Beatrix Potter, as well as charming landscapes and antique interiors.
Pride and Prejudice has such an instantly recognisable world, from grand estates and elegant gowns to crowded ballrooms and intimate conversations. What was it like visually interpreting a story that so many readers already have such a strong image of?
It’s very intimidating trying to capture a scene from such a beloved piece of work. Everyone has their own versions of the characters in their mind. I’ll say it definitely helped that there is so much Pride and Prejudice media. Whether that’s the films or previous illustrated editions, there was a lot of inspiration to pull from. So, I wanted to use those as references while still adding my own interpretation of the characters to create something recognizable but still unique to this edition and my work.
Jane Austen’s characters are at the heart of what makes Pride and Prejudice so enduring. Do you have a favourite character, and what is it about them that makes them stand out to you?
I feel like I always gravitate towards the quiet older sister in every story, being the eldest sister myself, so naturally, Jane is my favourite. I love her dynamic with Lizzie and seeing how their faults and strengths complement each other so well. Austen wrote sisters so perfectly. Even though Lizzie and Darcy are the stars here, Jane and Bingley have the number one spot in my heart.
What does Pride and Prejudice mean to you personally, and did your own relationship with the story influence the way you approached this edition?
I grew up in a household where the BBC 1995 Pride and Prejudice was on the TV at least once a year. I have a very familiar relationship with these characters to say the least. The ballroom moments are iconic and some of my favourites, so I loved trying to capture the tension between Darcy and Lizzie. That feeling everyone adores while watching or reading those scenes.
Can you share a behind-the-scenes moment or challenge from creating this edition, something readers wouldn’t necessarily see in the finished book?
One of my favourite parts of the art process is picking a colour palette. Even a subtle shift in colour can change the mood, so it’s very important to get it right. I think the almost monochromatic pink atmosphere we went with for the final work fits perfectly. It’s romantic and sweet and pairing that with conflict between the leads I feel reflects the story well.
