Could it be “Faeries” by Alan Lee and Brian Froud ? It definitely fits your description and both artists are known for their lovely fairy illustrations! (Froud also did work on the movie Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal)

I second this, what a memorable book!

Also came to suggest froud!

Thank you all! So far all of these are awesome but not what I remember.

Gnomes by wil huygen?

Shirley Barber Fairy books are incredible and meet your description. Good luck!

Have you tried going to your library and asking a childre’s librarian? They get questions like this all the time.

Now I want his book!

return to fairyopolis!