🎨 From Ballet Shoes to Picture Books: The Creative Journey of Momoko Abe | Creatives Across Borders 🌍

In this inspiring episode of Creatives Across Borders, I sit down with the incredibly talented Momoko Abe—Japanese-born author, illustrator, and creative powerhouse behind the hit picture book Avocado Asks.

We explore Momoko’s unique path from aspiring ballerina in Tokyo to filmmaker in London, and ultimately, to becoming a rising star in the UK children's book scene. She opens up about:

• Her cultural transition from Japan to the UK
• Breaking into traditional publishing
• The influence of Ukiyo-e and kawaii culture on her work
• Winning awards and working with the likes of John Agard and Jeanne Willis
• The real talk on making a living as a creative—and why she still works a part-time job in TV 🎬

Whether you're an aspiring illustrator, a fellow creative, or just curious about the global journeys artists take, this conversation is packed with insight, warmth, and encouragement. 💫