I’m Terri Wilhelm.

I am a freelance illustrator, designer, and passionate storyteller based in Madison, Wisconsin, whose creative journey is chronicled in my sketchbook pages. With a love for observing the natural world, I translate everyday moments, flowers in bloom, birds in the yard, shoreline scenes, and afternoon hikes in the woods, into whimsical sketches, watercolor illustrations, hand-lettered pages and story-driven surface patterns. I specialize in storybook art with whimsical, handcrafted charm reminiscent of children’s book illustrations, educational posters, calendars, greeting cards and puzzles.

All my artwork is story-driven, hand drawn, starting with a pencil sketch, human made with traditional art materials.

My Mission

To capture the wonder of the natural world through charming, handcrafted illustrations that inspire curiosity, storytelling, and appreciation for wildlife.

My Vision

To create art that feels like opening a beloved nature journal, where animals, habitats, and stories invite viewers to slow down and explore.

My Values

Wonder for the natural world

Curiosity and observation

Craftsmanship and traditional media

Storytelling through animals

Warmth, kindness, and delight

Environmental appreciation

My Promise

Every illustration offers a moment of discovery, an invitation to explore nature through playful characters and richly detailed habitats.

I would love for you to check out the rest of my portfolio here.

Follow me on Instagram to see my current works in progress.

Terri is a member of Illustrators For Hire (@illustratorsforhire), a wonderful, curated group of professional freelancers. Click here to learn more.

Contact me if you would like to work together on an illustration or licensing project.