This is my journey in creating concepts, writing, illustrating, finding a literary agent, and becoming a published children's book author and illustrator for the picture book genre.

Monday, September 22, 2014

Fall is here!!!

That time has come for me to make some note cards and send them off to some art directors and agents I have met during my journey. My art has come far and I continue to grow as an illustrator from the wise words of mentors and those who have become successful in the field. Below is the sketch and progression of the illustration that I am working on. I am painting it in gouache. When Ms. Ruth Sanderson (author and illustrator of Cinderella and other retelling of fairy tales) critiqued my work, she told me to explore shades of colors. Well, she wasn't quite that gentle, but that was the meaning of it. I am really trying to integrate her wise words into my illustrations. I remember opening her books and appreciating the art of it. It is easy to get lost in a visual fairy tale. Below is the illustration that I am creating to send off in a note card. Please let me know what you think. Halloween allows us to be whomever we want for a night. Who do you think you will be on the last night of October?
Sketching 

I am beginning to add color and layers. I love palette paper for this and the hues of good quality gouache are wonderful!

I am incorporating some light to more finished areas and beginning some of the background. Leaves were something that was noticed at my last conference. I am making sure to add that touch again. It helps identify my work and style.

I will still need to add a few edits, but here is the close to done illustration! I call it "Punkinmouse"

Friday, September 5, 2014

Huffington post live!

So, I was contacted by an assistant producer inquiring if I could be a part of their interview of Ben Mezrich. He has crossed over into multiple genres book writing and if I could be a guest. Well, it happened to be at 3pm...right when I am wrangling in 20 some kids with another co-worker. I didn't want to miss the opportunity, so they offered me to send in a video question. Actually, they requested 4 and were going to pick one out of that 4. The interview link is below. It is a step toward the dream for sure. Thank you to Huffington Post Live for reaching out to me. I had a small window of time to get the videos to them.
http://huff.lv/WwIhmz

It is always wonderful to see those who have made it and know what inspires them. Imagination is the the common thread that links us together. Even non fiction requires imagination to translate words into images within our minds.
Imagination is the greatest gift we can possess. It is a catalyst for life and the adventures we seek.