watercolors for years, but this was a big eye opener. It made me realize how
much I still have to learn about value and color. I think taking this class will
really help with my illustration work for children's books. My struggle with
watercolors has always been that there is never enough contrast. There's the
fear of going too dark, such permanence in it. The teacher threw down color
with boldness that made me nervous. When he was finished it was like a
miracle. Perhaps that is what it takes. Be bold. Step outside your boundaries.
What have I got to lose? Quality paper that's all. The thought still makes
me feel a little ill. What am I so afraid of?
Yesterday a close friend said to me that pursuing a career in children's books
was a huge risk. Sure it is. So is walking down the street or driving a car.
I have been wanting to do this basically my whole life, since 2nd grade
when I won the Caldecott Award for a class book project. Somehow I got
sidetracked. My parents told me the art world was so competitive, there
would be so many more jobs in fashion. (They didn't realize that most of those
jobs are in New York City and I would have to move away.) They are
right about art being competitive of course. I didn't even realize how much
until going to SCBWI conferences and joining Twitter.
My determination helped me learn to paint textile prints with gauche.
When designing on the computer became the way to go I taught myself
that, plus how to do repeat patterns. The first instinct was a feeling that it
was impossible. A big slice of cheese for you all...believe in YOU.
Nothing is impossible with hard work. It is WORK, but I know one
day it will pay off.
grade and high school and I found these
sketches. The depictions of the secretary,
principle, teachers, and a couple of my
friends still make me smile. I think I was
inspired by Garfield, always loved that
cat!
Illustration is in my heart.
I just can't
tell it no.
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