2. Blakely was born in Canterbury in 1968 and developed an interest in art from an early age. He studied
illustration at Wimbledon School of Art and completed his degree at Kingston University shortly after
which he became a professional illustrator. During this time his clients included The Body Shop, British
Telecom and Cable and Wireless and he was chosen to paint two front covers for the world renowned
author of ‘Schindler’s List’, Thomas Keneally.