Matt Phelan, an Ardmore-based illustrator and author, has spent the past two decades making a name for himself in the children’s literature world, writes Michael T. Dolan for Main Line Today.

Phelan is an illustrator of over 20 books from other authors, and has written and illustrated four award-winning graphic novels, several picture books, and a growing collection of chapter books.

His work is simply beloved by children, teachers, librarians, and parents alike.

Phelan uses a heavy dose of imagination and childlike sensibility in his work that is attuned to his experiences growing up.

“I always had a sense that I wanted to do something creative,” Phelan said. “I was into puppets, special effects, movies, stop-motion and drawing.”

His Ardmore studio is full of beloved items from his childhood, including bookshelves stuffed with work from well-known children’s authors, framed photos of creative heroes, and vinyl LPs from his teens.

Many of the same things that inspired Phelan growing up continue to inspire him today.

Phelan began focusing on book illustration while working in the children’s section of a bookstore after college at Temple University.

Fast forward, and he is quite well-known for his work.

“If you told the 12-year-old me that my job would be books for kids, well, that checks out,” Phelan concluded.

Read more about Matt Phelan and his creative work in Main Line Today.

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