To celebrate the opening of our out-of-this-word Aliens Love Underpants exhibition, we were recently joined by Illustrator Ben Cort for a day of fantastic events! Ben welcomed families to our Attic, where he taught us all how to draw his famous extra-terrestrial friends (and their beloved underpants), before hosting an inspiring Ink and Drink event for aspiring Illustrators.

Seven Stories spoke to Ben to get to know a little bit more about the man behind the pencil.

What inspired you when you were younger?

What about picture books appealed to you?

Can you tell us about your picture book process?

What inspired the alien characters?

Who and what do you admire in picture books today?

What advice would you give to young Illustrators?

What is next for Ben Cort?

You can find signed copies of Ben’s books in our Bookshop!