Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Strengthening my wings

These are some character sketches for a picture book that I am writing. This is the project that I hope to complete by next spring.

When I was about 8 years old I passionately vowed to become a children's book illustrator and writer. Then I grew up and left that dream behind. But now I'm back on track.

It feels great to be fulfilling my life's purpose and I've learned much since I began this past April. For example, I initially began using words to write my first manuscript and soon found that drawing is the best way for me to "write". Therefore I'm just filling up my sketch-book with scenes and will add the words later. Whatever works, right?

The biggest obstacle to my life's purpose is using color yet I'm coming along at a slow but steady pace. And don't be afraid to get in my face like an army drill sergeant when it comes to critiquing my skills. Sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind. Sometimes birds need a big fat push out the nest whether they can fly or not. Wings can only be strengthened if they're used.

Carla

6 comments:

Linda Kay said...

I like your funny characters! Many of us have talked about being color wheel-challenged. I try now to keep my colors as simple as possible & limited. Line is my strength & I've finally accepted that. Your work looks great & just a splash of color is all it needs...have fun with it...enjoy!

Mônica said...

Welcome, Carla! :-)

I think it's great that you're working both on your illustration and writing skills. I don't see myself as a writer, but mostly as an aspiring illustrator. I'm a bit intimidated by using color, but I know practice will help me improve and feel more at ease...

Your characters are very charming!

Carla said...

Thanks Linda and Monica.

Linda: I also believe that line is my strength so I'll take your advice and use it to my advantage by taking your advice and using "just a splash of color".

Monica: Your bathing pig is awesome. I usually paint my line drawings before inking but I think I'll try your method next time.

Vanessa Brantley Newton said...

You are well on your way my friend. If you can take the critiques and wisdom and work with them it will help you so much. I will tell anyone who is trying to break into this wonderful business of illustrating for children you have to learn to take it on the chin and get back on the horse and ride. It has helped me as well. Keep doing what you are doing. Read everything you can get your hands on. Don't be afraid to experiment with different media. Check out other illustrators color palettes and try to working with some of those colors. Draw when you are happy and content and even when you are sad and frustrated. You'll be surprised at what will come out in your illustrations. Be willing to laugh at yourself it's just paper hee he hee he! I love you characters. I can't wait to see them all gustied up!
Have fun.

mitchowl said...

You definitely have a story in the making. I love your characters. I think I had a dog like that when I was a child, ha ha. Good job. Keep going.

Michelle Henninger said...

Oh these look like fun! I can't wait to see them finished up! Nicely done!