Meet Darel Seow: The Dinosaur‑Obsessed Storyteller
Darel Seow is the kind of guy who would’ve been something out of Jurassic World had he not chased the road to illustration instead of a palaeontologist’s lab coat. From a childhood fascination with dinosaurs and a love of all things wild, Darel now brings the prehistoric to modern audiences in a way that’s literally rock‑solid.
From the Museum Walls to Classroom Walls
- National Museum of Singapore: Shining his flair on exhibits that make history look cooler than a museum at midnight.
- Asian Civilisations Museum: Adding a splash of creativity to cultural narratives with illustrations that pop like a kid’s birthday cake.
- British Museum: His Teaching History With 100 Objects infographic brochure teamed up with the BBC Radio 4 series—helping students across the UK explore world history one visual prompt at a time. Talk about a global classroom!
The Kid‑Catcher Series
Darel is an illustrator’s dream for anyone who’s ever wished a storybook could feel like a fireworks display. Recent works include:
- Marvellous Mammals: A Wild A to Z of Southeast Asia—a picture book co‑created with ecologist Debby Ng. It showcases Southeast Asia’s hidden treasures with a vibe so fresh you’d think the forest itself delivered the illustrations.
- Three other children’s books under his belt, each one a portal to a world where animals and imagination dance together.
Teaching, Workshops, And The Power of the Pencil
He’s not just about the final product; Darel loves the creative spark. He’s conducted workshops, school visits, and is a regular at events where kids are encouraged to express themselves via drawing. “It’s all about seeing the world through a new lens,” he says.
It All Began With a Quest for Knowledge
When asked how National Student (NS) nudged him onto this path, Darel smiles and points to the mix of science, nature, and storytelling that defined his upbringing. “I was always in the lab as a kid, poking around fossils, but my father always urged me to put pen to paper,” he recalls.
So next time you think dinosaurs live only in celluloids, remember Darel Seow—a real-life dinosaur enthusiast who’s turning the ancient world into vivid, engaging stories for everyone.
You have worked on massive murals like the Unnatural History you did with Lee Xin Li, to picture books like the “Marvellous Mammals: A Wild A to Z of Southeast Asia”. What are some of your most memorable partnerships and what made them so awesome?
Collaboration Chronicles: When Creativity Meets Nature
Working with a variety of collaborators feels like hopping onto a ride that keeps changing its scenery. No two partnerships are the same—whether it’s the quirky personalities, the different workflows, or the fresh ideas that pop up when we combine our strengths. That mix of variety is what keeps life exciting and brag-worthy.
Two Projects That Stuck With Me
There are a few collaborations that genuinely stand out, and the ones I want to talk about are the ones that dove deep into a subject that’s very close to my heart: the bond between humans and the natural world. These two studies not only impressed me with their depth but also turned out to be my longest and most emotionally roller‑coaster projects.
What Made These Projects Unique
- Heart‑to‑Heart Discussion: We explored how people relate to the environment, digging into feelings, hopes, and fears that surface when we think about conservation and daily human life.
- The Day‑To‑Day Push: Balancing creative innovation, rigorous research, and tight deadlines, we kept our energetic spirits alive—often burning extra hours to weave together ideas that sparkled.
- Emotions on Parade: From the initial moments of doubt to the ultimate triumph after uploading the final piece, the roller‑coaster of feelings was intense, but totally worth it.
Memories That Keep Us Going
Even after the work was published, that sense of relief and sheer joy still linger. I can’t help but smile when I think back to the long nights, coffee servings, and the final burst of laughter when we saw the finished result.
Throwback to our most memorable moment: the day the collaborative video finally hit the screen, and the sheer delight spread across everyone’s faces. It felt like a big group high‑five—well, technically a photo, but you get the drift.
Even though we can’t physically post the Instagram snapshot here, I’d love to say that the vibe captured in that image shows the unbreakable bond of teamwork and nature‑inspired creativity.
Which one was the most challenging and how long did it take to complete?
Our Battle With the Big Mural
Hey folks, you’ve probably heard about that giant wall we tried to paint. Trust me, it’s a wild ride, especially with the world throwing curveballs our way.
When the Clock Started Ticking
- The project kicked off just before the so‑called Circuit Breaker period.
- We wrapped up the final stretch of our plans right in the middle of this year.
- For a whole year, we’d share a studio, expecting a “just walk over and chill” collaboration vibe.
Getting Used to Remote Fatigue
And then, boom! Circuit Breaker hit, waking us up to a new routine. Suddenly, staying motivated felt like juggling flaming swords. I was battling for purpose and focus while also fighting the classic “you’re not in my workspace” remote glitch.
When My Mac Almost Died
The mural was massive, so my laptop threw up on it like a stubborn traveler. It almost quit a handful of times. Yet here’s the silver lining: every crash sparked a fresh debate, leading to some pretty amazing brainstorms.
Want Xin Li’s Take?
Click here to dive into Xin Li’s side of the story.
Watch the Progress
Check out how the mural came to life on Instagram:
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgP60ksl-xY/?utmsource=igwebcopylink” target=”_blank”>See the mural in action
A lot of the work you do are with museums — is there a reason for that?
Why I Can’t Get Enough of Museums
Let’s face it: I’m a total museum junkie. If museums were a movie, I’d be the head‑lining star.
Everyone’s Got The Wrong Picture
Most people think museums are “just a bunch of dusty artifacts,” but that’s a HUGE misconception. Think of a museum as a sprawling storybook that’s always up for a good read—except the pages are made of history, art, and science.
Storytelling 101: Museums Are Storytelling Superstars
- The same animal can be portrayed as a fierce warrior in one country and a gentle, cuddly creature in another.
- Artifacts from a single collection can be reframed from a completely different angle depending on the curatorial focus.
- It’s like watching the same movie but in multiple languages—each one reveals a fresh twist.
Spreading the Spark to the Little Ones
One of the things that makes me feel like a museum super‑hero is the chance to design exhibits for kids. I hope that excitement is contagious—just like a morning after a meeting that needed coffee.
Honestly, if you’re reading this and you’re a mom or a dad who’s skeptical about museum time… trust me, there’s magic waiting around every corner.
You conduct many artist talks and workshops. What inspired you to want to teach art?
Guiding Creativity in a Snap
Think of me as a tour guide for the creative high‑five! I pop into folks’ lives for quick workshops, sparking a safe space where ideas can jump out, wobble, and grow—no judgment, just pure play.
Why I’m a Facilitator
- No drab classrooms. I’m all about hands‑on fun during the brief window I get.
- The goal? Leave them with gold‑mined tools. Things they can pocket and use long after we’re gone.
Short‑Term Workshops, Long‑Term Impact
During those tight, timed sessions I want kids to watch closely and think wildly. By zooming into the details, they’ll spot solving spots they never knew existed.
Learning Beyond Glib Class Notes
School focuses on subjects, but we live in a visual world. Let’s show them how to paint with words and ideas. If we hug visuals instead of straight facts, our message hits a whole different beat.
Sharing My Joy, Stirring Your Passion
I’m all about lighting up that inner spark—
Because a single spark can ignite a forest of creativity. Anyone, any medium, all that matters is the urge to create.
Take a peek at the vibes I’m waving at: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/t2RME-BQCg/?utmsource=igwebcopylink”>inspirational collage on Instagram.
What inspired you to become an illustrator? Do you remember the first thing you ever drew?
My Dinosaur Love Story
Totally obsessed, I could say the dinosaur was my new best friend. I remember every sketch as it grew more wild over a few months, fueled by the great artists who made prehistoric creatures look amazing. Those inspirations turned my doodles into something I could proudly show off—who knew a few sketches and a lot of like could make me feel so alive?
My Three‑Year‑Old Masterpiece (and My Secret Love for Storytelling)
Booted out of the sandbox and straight into the world of imagination, here’s a scribble from when I was just a toddler. My parents in a “hold on, this might be important” mood stuck it on the fridge and it hasn’t left since.
What Gives Me the Creative Vibe?
- Words over Pictures: Most artists jump straight into doodles, but my sketchbooks are charades—filled with text more than ink.
- Story Crafting: The thrill of building a tale and then visualizing it feels like a secret power.
- Communication: Drawing lets me put thoughts into a shared language—no need for a translator.
So, while I might not be the next Picasso, I’m absolutely hooked on turning imagined worlds into visual adventures. And it all started with that little three‑year‑old drawing.
Check out the original on Instagram
Did your NS experience influence your artistic pursuits in any way?
Finding My Creative Spark
Picture this: I was staring at the word “NS” like it was a giant scary boss, and honestly, I was terrified of it. But what happened next was nothing short of a career‑turning boom! NS didn’t just nudge me—it practically pushed me onto a path I never imagined.
What That Transformed
- It made me realise that whatever I chose to do after had to be something I could picture doing forever.
- It gave me the breathing room to produce a ton of work—way more than I’d thought possible.
Sketching Rough‑Drafts and Deadlines
At week‑long camps, I’d spend the day sketching in my notebook, then sprint out on the weekend to polish those ideas into slick digital illustrations. These you know, the ones I tossed into the frenzied world of Threadless.
Threadless: The Pioneering Crowd‑Design HQ
This platform was like the first app where creators could drop their designs into a pool, and the crowd would pick the hottest ones to be printed on everything from t‑shirts to mugs. The feedback loop was brutal but invaluable—every comment, tweak, or laugh taught me something new.
That early period was basically a crash course in the design field, and I learned more in a few years than most people spend a lifetime figuring out.
Check It Out
Want to see a visual snapshot? <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BWzmEaklujT/?utmsource=igwebcopylink”>Click here for a quick look at the journey.
What have you learnt most about creativity and the creative industry from this venture?
Finding My Way in the Creative Crowd
We’re all wrestling with a little secret: even the pros feel lost sometimes. Watching the best of the best doing their thing can make us feel like the world’s a big hub of excellence and we’re just stuck on the sidelines.
My “Bologna Book Fair” Reality Check
- I walked into the Bologna Children’s Book Fair a few years back, armed with nothing but a heart heavy enough to find the photocopy corner and start a tear‑jerker.
- Why? It wasn’t the stunning decor alone—the sheer artistry on display was jaw‑dropping. It was more the gap I felt between where I was and where they stood.
Lessons from the Hallways of Genius
That short run reminded me that creative energy thrives on trial and error. Even the most revered illustrators swear by adrenaline‑driven “oops” moments when deadlines loom large.
“Even seasoned artists get flustered,” I thought, as I stared at a page that never felt right. It was a sobering, yet uplifting, reality: we all stumble.
No Race, Just Rhythm
So what’s the takeaway?
- Nothing changes the fact that stress is inevitable. With tight schedules, it’s normal to feel “off.”
- But that’s exactly why you shouldn’t be in a hurry to finish faster. The real secret is enjoying the messiness of the craft.
- When you savor the creative process, you’re less likely to let the pressure get the better of you.
In short: keep creating, keep experimenting, and remember that even the best of us launch into an artistic roller coaster. The rides may be rocky, but the view at the top is always worth the climb.
What are some big misconceptions people have about Singapore artists and illustrators?
Freelancing: The New Zen
Picture this: the office is a bad dream, the coffee mug floats like a prop in a sci‑fi film, and your boss is… well, just your neighbour’s cat. Sounds like a box‑tired fantasy?
But the truth is, everyone is hitting the “rug‑so‑close‑to‑you” button that the pandemic handed us. Freelancing is suddenly the next big thing, and people are ringing up the espresso machine, listening to the fridge’s hiss, and actually turning their skills into a paycheck.
Why We’re Doing It From Home (and Why It’s Still a Job)
- Freedom to put your teddy in front of the camera. We all need the ‘no commute’ vibe.
- Work schedules that don’t peek at your pizza. Set the hours—just don’t rebalance your scale.
- Getting paid for the creative craziness you put into the world—even while you wear your loungewear.
The Pandemic’s Reminder
The world’s been in a tough spot, and we’ve all seen how stories save us. Whether it’s a book, a TV show or a performance, those creative goodies keep us sane during the chaos. They’re not a simple “gadget” for the bored; they’re our life jackets.
Once you’re in the creative zone. Turn on the lights, buy your favourite pens, and maybe read Frederick by Leo Lionni. The book, in all its wholesome doodles, shows how creativity shapes life in a way that even the most unbusy day can feel like a full‑metal playdate.
It’s Not Free—It’s an Investment
There’s a catch, however: it’s still a job. If you want to keep creating, you have to keep earning. So take premium for the art, value your skill like a dentist values a molar, and make sure your bank account stays funded so you can keep adding wonder to the world.
All in, the freelance world is big and chill. If you make a comfy couch, buy a great mug, and keep your creative paychecks rolling, you’ll be happier than a cat with an unlimited sunny spot.
World of freelance living
The Book You Need: Frederick
Keep the pay rolls flowing!
Who and what are your inspirations and why?
Who’s Whispering in Your Ear or Sketching Your Dreams?
Sir David Attenborough – The Voice that Turns Browsers into Backpackers
Picture this: you’re scrolling through your phone, sipping coffee, and abruptly a smooth, unmistakable voice narrates the next great adventure in the wild. That’s Sir David for you. His disembodied timbre isn’t just a sound—it’s an invitation to explore oceans, jungles, and the most unlikely corners of our planet. If you’ve ever found yourself “Wow, that’s amazing!” at the sheer elegance of a beetle, or suddenly obsessed with the politics of coral reefs, you’re probably a fan of the legendary broadcaster.
Christoph Niemann – The Everyday Ray‑Bender
Have you ever stared at your plain coffee mug and thought, “Why can’t this be more interesting?” Christoph Niemann turns the ordinary into the extraordinary. He’s a master at spotting quirks in everyday life, turning them into whimsical comics that make you giggle even at a bus stop. What sets him apart is the raw honesty he pours into his art—he’s not afraid to show the messy part of creating. It’s like watching a painter who throws splashy paint on a canvas and then smiles, “Yep, that’s how art feels!”
Why His Work Matters
- Transforms mundane moments into visual delights.
- Encourages us to notice beauty in the smallest things.
- Shows creativity doesn’t always have to be polished.
Nature – The Infinite Playground
Every time we think we’ve nailed a cool design, Nature swoops in with a “Hold my mic.” She paints a universe full of oddly fascinating creatures that eclipse our clever inventions. One day you’re scrolling through a problem or kitten content, and the next you’re discovering a creature so bizarre upside‑down it makes your brain spin. It’s a constant reminder that the world is full of sheer awesome, with a wild array of forms that keep our imagination alive.
What We Gain from This Perspective
- Rooted awe for the unimaginable.
- Inspiration to keep exploring.
- Hope that creativity will always thrive within the wildest forms.
So whether it’s David’s voice pulling you into the great outdoors, Christoph’s doodles reminding you that every cup can be a masterpiece, or the relentless wonder that Nature offers—each of them invites you to step outside the ordinary and soak up the extraordinary flourish of life.
What’s next for you and what’s your dream project to work on?
Another Year, Another Book Adventure!
2021 was a whirlwind – a nonstop sprint of projects that were as tough as they were rewarding. If you’re wondering what was on the docket, it’s more or less a painting of ambition mixed with a dash of reality.
Why I’m Back on the Picture‑book Train
My friends will laugh when I admit it: I’m kicking off another picture book. Done, done, done – it’s the nth year I’ve promised myself to write one. It’s a classic struggle for me: a battle with indecision that ends up making me buy a dozen notebooks and a colorful pack of sticky notes.
What I love is the blend of nature and storytelling. Picture vibrant forests, talking animals, and a sandbox of imagination. By teaming up with fellow dreamers who bring their own flair, we’re turning a solitary idea into a collaborative masterpiece that anyone can grab and enjoy.
Design That Opens Up to All
I firmly believe design must be accessible. Every page should feel approachable – kids, babies, grandparents, anyone looking at the cover. That breadth of appeal is why my work matters; it’s the bridge that lets stories and art touch the whole family.
Room to Grow: Time, Budget, and Freedom
Every creative project needs a breathing space: enough hours to tweak illustrations, a budget that can handle spontaneous color choices, and sneaky extra weeks for last‑minute inspiration. That’s how we keep the project alive and thriving.
Stay tuned – I’ll be sharing snippets soon, so you can see how the story unfolds. Want a sneak peek? Check out this Instagram post: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8gi2U7nQfu/?utmsource=igwebcopylink”>https://www.instagram.com/p/B8gi2U7nQfu/. It’s a little behind‑the‑scenes look at the magic that’s brewing.
What do you enjoy most about being an illustrator in Singapore?
The Joy of Crafting Your Own Path
It’s amazing when the work you do feels meaningful—like a perfect mash‑up of everything you’re passionate about.
I love that I can chart my own course, tackling whatever feels urgent or exciting at any given moment. This freedom lets me decide how, when, and where to work, keeping things fresh and personal.
- Every project is a new adventure – I never know what’s next, and that mystery keeps me on my toes.
- Chaos breeds creativity – the more bizarre and unexpected my tasks are, the more I thrive.
- Storytelling matters – I get to champion narratives that resonate, reminding everyone that we’re all part of something larger.
Ultimately, it’s the blend of freedom, curiosity, and purpose that makes each day feel worth it.
