Simon Basher, is an English artist, illustrator and author based in Amsterdam. He is best known for his illustrated children's reference books, particularly the Basher Science series, which includes The Periodic Table, Physics and Chemistry.
Life and career
Basher was born in London, England. He studied illustration at both the Epsom School of Art and Design and Lincoln College, Lincolnshire. After graduating in 1992, he was a member of the rock / hip-hop band Boasti who enjoyed Indie rock chart success and toured with Senser, Chumbawamba and Dub War. From 1995, he worked as a session musician for various record labels including EMI, Rhythm King and Talkin' Loud both in London and New York City. He toured the UK extensively with different acts and was a performer with the band Posh at the Songs & Visions CarlsbergConcert Tour at Wembley Stadium in 1997. From 1998, he ran a musician and artist management company and along with record producer Paul Epworth was one of the founding members of the 93 Feet East music venue. In 2000, Simon returned to art and illustration. Working under the name Basher, he created his manga character style exhibiting and selling original artwork and limited edition prints both internationally and in the U.K. In 2002 and 2006, he exhibited at two solo shows 'look how bright and brave they are' and 'Hello Oddbod' in The Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London. In 2004, the Basher clothing range was launched in Selfridges. In 2007, the first book in the Basher Science series, The Periodic Table was published by Kingfisher to critical and commercial acclaim. He has since published over 35 books across six series including Basher Science, History, Basics and Go!Go! BoBo. His books are available in over twenty countries and have sold over 3.5 million copies worldwide. In 2017, the Basher Science toy line was launched in the US in partnership with Mattel.
Work
Basher received a Graphic Design HND from Lincoln College of Art in 1992, with contemporaries such as Lydia Monks. Starting in 2007, Basher began writing and illustrating a series of books aimed at making science relevant and interesting. His first work, on the Periodic Table, invited the reader to enjoy "Elements with Style!". It was subsequently reviewed by Publisher's Weekly and the Royal Society of Chemistry. "Artist and designer Simon Basher has fun playing in the world of contemporary character design. Inspired by a love of simple line work and a rich color palette, his characters fill the gap between edgy manga and the cuteness of Hello Kitty. He lives in England."
Personal life
Basher is married to the French illustrator Claire Rollet. They have two children and live and work inAmsterdam, Netherlands.
