Hi, I'm
Simone Smith!
Better known online as, Simkray. I’m a Black British illustrator (of Jamaican descent) born and raised in London, UK, with a deep passion for bold and whimsy, story-driven illustration for book covers, background art, comics and editorial.
My work lives at the intersection of heritage and imagination, a space I like to call "Blerd-Fantasy." I love mixing elements of my Jamaican culture with the quirky, magical themes that inspired me growing up. Whether I’m working on a comic, animation, or a bespoke commission, I aim to bring a touch of magic to everything I create.
"THE BEST STORIES COME FROM YOUR OWN PERSPECTIVE!"
"don't let your fear of not thinking your work is not good enough stop you from creating. it is always better to have something to look back on than nothing at all"
representation matters
At these event I was able to talk with my local community and realised that people were interested in my illustrative and creative skills, having people stop to talk to me about my work and wanting to know more about my characters made me want to continue creating Webcomics based on my culture and interests!
I create because I want to see the vibrant culture of my London and Jamaican roots reflected in the fantasy worlds I love. My mission is to create art where black joy and magical wonder coexist.