Since 1987, Francois Thisdale has been working as a freelance illustrator for North American, Asian and European clients.

His work blends traditional drawing and painting with digital imagery, using collage, acrylic, watercolor and computer.

He won numerous awards:
Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Award Finalist 2020
Blue Spruce Award Finalist 2018
TD Award Winner 2016
Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Award Honour Book 2016
Amelia Frances Howard-Gibbon Illustrator's Award Finalist 2013
Crystal Kite Award 2013
Libris Award 2013
USBBY Outstanding International Books 2013
TD Award FInalist 2013
Marylin Baillie Award Finalist 2013
Notable Books for a Global Society Award 2013
Finalist Prix des Libraires du Quebec 2012
CCBC Starred Selection 2012
CCBC Starred Selection 2012
Willow Award Finalist 2010
OLA Best Bets 2009
Glyph Award 2009
Bronze meadal Sydney Taylor Book Award 2006
TD Award Finalist 2005
Platinum Vision Award 2004

Main clients
Clockwise Press, Pajama Press,
Fitzhenry & Whiteside, Red Deer Press,
Holiday House, Poisoned Pen Press, Fifth House
les 400 Coups, Tundra Books, CEC,
Canadian Geographic , Pearson,,
Simon & Schuster, Silver Leaf Books
Éditions de l’Isatis, Editions du Signe.

He has authored a children's book, "Nini"
published in english at Tundra Books.

He has also composed music for short films and exhibitions.