The Australian children's literature world has been shaken by the death of Sydney illustrator Kim Gamble, who died on Friday aged 63.

The much-loved, award-winning artist is known for illustrating the best-selling Tashi books, written by mother and daughter authors Barbara and Anna Fienberg.

Magical imagination ... Kim Gamble at work in his Manly studio in 2006. Credit:Simon Alekna

Gamble created the lively, elfin boy with the towering curl of hair and gypsy earrings, who looked nothing like the authors initially imagined, more than 20 years ago.

"He is a bit weird but still, somehow, he fits in," Gamble said of his creation.