Helle (Denise) Urban Biography (1957-)

Helle Urban told SATA: "I have been an illustrator for over twenty years. I earned my bachelor of fine arts in illustration from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA. I have illustrated numerous children's books, painted family portraits, and was a background artist in the animation industry. My work has been displayed in numerous art galleries. I have also painted large murals for hospitals and various institutions. I am currently working on a large mural for Parker Adventist Hospital for the children's play area. . . . My most recent children's books have been illustrated for Sleeping Bear Press, a publishing company located in Michigan. The three books are C Is for Centennial: A Colorado Alphabet; P Is for Pilgrim: A Thanksgiving Alphabet; and P Is for Passport: A World Alphabet, for which I illustrated the letters 'Q' and 'Z' in collaboration with other illustrators.

"I do frequent book signings for special events and school appearances. Frequently, I accompany Colorado's First Lady, Frances Owens, to schools and libraries to encourage literacy for young readers. As an illustrator, I am fortunate and excited to bring joy to children and adults alike. It is very inspiring to bring the love of reading to a child who gets excited when looking at the illustrations and yearns to understand what the words mean, etc. When a child tells me he wants to be an artist, I say, 'Follow your dreams whatever they are; never give up, even when the going gets tough. You'll succeed!'

"I credit my success to hard work and the love and support of my family but most importantly it is a gift from God that I very much appreciate and don't take for granted."