Charles van Sandwyk, best known for creating engaging mythical creatures depicting the human condition, is quickly gaining an international reputation as an artist, author and illustrator of children's books.

Charles Noel van Sandwyk was born May 12, 1966 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Growing up in South Africa had a profound influence on his art and early life. His English mother and Dutch father were avid nature watchers. As a young child, he spent many hours with his parents and older brother observing the wonders of birds and animals in the local landscape. Charles was an avid young reader. Influenced by detailed 19th century English and Dutch prints and paintings that adorned the family home, he spent many hours drawing and illustrating aspects of the many books he read, such as J.R. Tolkein's, The Hobbit. Living in South Africa amid mixed cultures, he also learned much about the need for cooperation and understanding amongst peoples.

When Charles was 11, he emigrated with his family to North Vancouver and began a new life amidst fir trees and rain. He attended Seycove Secondary School in North Vancouver and with the inspiration and guidance of art teacher George Knapp, began to seriously pursue his talents as an artist. Following graduation, he enrolled in the Graphic Design program at Capilano College where he further developed his illustration skills and completed his diploma with honours.

With the wanderlust of a young man, he travelled the world and discovered the magic of the Fiji Islands, where for part of each year, he now calls his home. It is there that he draws much of the inspiration for his current work, including The Ship of Wisdom. Charles also lives and works part of each year in Deep Cove, North Vancouver.

He has received numerous honours for his work including a 1986 Alcan Award for his first handmade book A Selection of Neighbourly Birds. The National Library of Canada has also maintained an archive of his work since 1986. He has a large local following who regularly collect his prints, paintings and books. His work can also be found in collections across North America, Europe and in Japan.