Darren Cools

Illustrator, graphic designer, author

Hi! I’m glad you’re here. I believe in making things that are good for people, and I know you do too.

My passion for life-long learning and cultivating curiosity informs everything I create, and dedication to equity and inclusion defines how I show up as a collaborative team leader. You can view a selection of my professional design work on Behance »

When I’m not designing, I write and draw. Through novels, short stories, picture books, art, and comics, I (try to) tell honest human stories while trying to stay playful, entertaining, and above all, hopeful.

Feel like getting in touch? I’d love to hear from you »

Books

I illustrated three books written by Julie Darling on computer science and hacking for kids—two picture books and an accompanying parent/teacher guide. They will be released September 2024.

So much went into the development of these books, and I am proud of our work. I hope they inspire young people and parents, teachers, and mentors alike to explore, dream, and learn about the magic of computers.

Now available for pre-order on Amazon »

Design

I am a multi-disciplinary creative professional with extensive experience as a director, designer, communications strategist, and illustrator in both agency and in-house settings. I have established and managed creative teams, defined process and workflow, mentored, taught, and maintain an ongoing independent client list. To learn more, visit my LinkedIn or view selections of my work as a presentation »

Art

I’ve been drawing since my earliest memories. With pens, pencils, crayons, markers, sticks in the dirt, anything I can get my hands on—though my favorite drawing tools are still the Mirado Black Warrior No. 2 HB and the Pigma Micron 01. Drawing is how I begin most creative undertakings, how I process thoughts and feelings, express ideas, and relate to the world.

See more on my illustration page »