Fifi Colston: From School Doodles to Creative Success

Fifi Colston, a renowned illustrator and designer, has built a vibrant and varied career that includes writing and illustrating 56 books and creating props for theatre. She is particularly recognized for her significant contributions to the World of Wearable Art (WOW) competition, having submitted over 30 entries since her initial participation in **1995**. Colston, who resides in Hataitai, Wellington, with her husband, **Adrian Parkyn**, and their cat, Griffin, recently published her latest children’s book, **The Little Yellow Digger 123**, in **November**.

Colston’s creative journey began in her childhood. Originally from **Yorkshire**, her family’s move to **Africa** and later to **Wellington** when she was eight influenced her artistic development. “My Scottish aunt introduced me to crafting, and I knew I was always going to have a creative life,” she reflects. Despite her passion for art, her academic path initially diverted her toward subjects like French and Latin, following her older sisters’ choices. Colston found ways to express her creativity by illustrating her textbooks and doodling on school desks, which led to her being caught and having to sand them down.

After completing a three-year design course at **Wellington Polytech**, Colston aimed to work at an advertising agency in **Auckland**. However, when her husband secured a job in **Christchurch**, she shifted gears and began freelancing, which she describes as the best fit for her.

Her entry into the WOW competition marked a significant milestone in her career. Colston initially participated with two friends from design school and has continued to submit entries for nearly three decades. She mentions that she might take a break from WOW in the next few years as she is currently occupied with designing props and costumes for a theatre production titled **The Monster Ate My Story**, written by her friend **Ruth Paul**, set to premiere in **April**.

Colston and Parkyn spent around 15 years living in Christchurch, where they upgraded their home as their family grew. In **1998**, they moved to their current residence, a charming **1910** villa in Wellington, which they have lovingly renovated. The house features four bedrooms, one of which was transformed into Colston’s studio by removing a wall. “I’ve always loved character homes rather than new subdivisions,” she states, emphasizing her affection for the villa’s historic charm.

While their garden remains a bit mismatched, filled with roses and cacti planted by their son, **Rory**, Colston admits that gardening is not her strong suit. She identifies as a maximalist in her decorating style, relishing in the joy brought by her collections, including animal figures received during her childhood in Ghana. “No matter where we were in the world, when we put those objects out, we were home,” she recalls.

Despite her contentment with their home, Colston acknowledges the practicality of its 47 steps from the road as she and Parkyn consider their future. If given the chance, she jokes about moving to **Seatoun** if she ever won the lottery, although she rarely buys tickets. Her love for the sea shines through as she describes her routine of cold water swimming with friends, which she finds beneficial for her mental health.

Colston’s journey from doodling on desks to becoming a celebrated illustrator and designer demonstrates how early passions can evolve into fulfilling careers. With her upcoming theatre project and a rich portfolio of creative works, she continues to inspire others with her dedication to the arts.