Levi Pinfold to Illustrate Final Two Harry Potter Illustrated Editions
Bloombury Children’s Books made an exciting announcement recently. The renowned artist Levi Pinfold will illustrate the last two volumes of the beloved Harry Potter Illustrated Editions series. This news broke on March 10 through the publisher’s official Instagram and website channels.
A Legacy of Illustrated Magic
The journey of the Illustrated Editions began in 2015 with the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Since then, these versions have captivated fans, thanks not only to their imaginative illustrations but also to engaging narrative storytelling. Originally, artist Jim Kay was at the helm, responsible for bringing the iconic figures to life through his unique vision.
Jim Kay Steps Down for Personal Reasons
In a pertinent update on HarryPotter.com dated March 10, it was revealed:
“Jim Kay made the difficult decision to step back from the Harry Potter Illustrated Editions to focus on his mental health.”
Stepping into Kay’s role, Pinfold will illustrate the final installments: The Half-Blood Prince and The Deathly Hallows.
Release Dates and Visual Insights
The illustrated edition of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is scheduled for release in October 2026, as shared in Bloomsbury’s Instagram post. The announcement featured a beautifully illustrated scene depicting Dumbledore and Harry peering into the magical Pensieve.
About Levi Pinfold
Levi Pinfold, who hails from the scenic Forest of Dean in England, is now based in Cornwall. He graduated from the University College Falmouth in 2006, launching his career as a self-employed illustrator. Pinfold made his debut in children’s literature with the acclaimed picture book The Django in 2010, followed by Black Dog.
Agrievements and Previous Contributions
His remarkable talent has earned him accolades, including the award for Best Emerging Illustrator at The Book Trust Early Years Award in 2010 and a nomination for the Book Trust Best New Illustrators Award in 2011.
Pinfold’s prior contributions to the Potter universe include works for Bloomsbury’s Harry Potter Hogwarts House Editions and The Harry Potter Wizarding Almanac, making him a familiar face in the fandom.
Creative Insights from Pinfold
Pinfold shared his reflections as he embarks on this new chapter, describing the chance to work on the series as “magical,”according to harrypotter.com.
“These books are like old friends, and I feel incredibly lucky to attempt to share what I see in them. Visually speaking, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is like watching a firework display on the coldest, darkest of nights. That sense of wonder and awe is something I’d love to share with readers, my younger self and my own kids.”
Jim Kay’s Praise for Pinfold
Jim Kay also expressed esteem for Pinfold’s artwork, reminiscing about the first encounter with his creative works:
“An art director first showed me Levi’s work many years back when I was visiting a publisher. When he pulled open the drawer and I saw this beautiful piece of painting, I was blown away. His work has since then become so important to me, as he’s everything that you could wish for in an illustrator.”
Kay stated that knowing Pinfold would take over the final two books provides him with a “huge comfort,”as both a fan of the series and an admirer of Pinfold’s artistry.
What Lies Ahead for Fans
With The Half-Blood Prince slated for release next year, fans eagerly await additional details regarding pre-orders, which Bloomsbury is expected to share soon. Until then, the first five illustrated volumes are available for purchase on their official website.