After studying Illustration & Graphics at Liverpool Art School in the early 1970s, Joy Fitzsimmons came to London and followed a freelance career in publishing working as a book designer and illustrator for 25 years. Since gaining two Dachshunds, she formed London Pooch, a design company producing cards, prints and gifts. Joy's designs have been bought by the British museum, Dulwich Picture Gallery, Baltic Mill, Fortnum & Mason and Liberty.