Authenticity
There are plenty of children’s illustration portfolios out there that look polished. The technique is strong, and the style is appealing. But sometimes, even when all the “right” boxes are ticked, something’s still missing. And that missing piece is often “authenticity”.
For me, authenticity is what ties everything together. Technique is how I draw—absence or presence of linework, textures, control. Style is my choice of colours, shapes, and overall mood. But authenticity? That’s “me”. My ideas, my experiences, and how I see the world. When that personal voice is missing, even the most beautiful illustrations can fall a bit flat.
So how do you build authenticity into your work? I’ve found two things that really help:
- The first thing is to draw in your sketchbook every day—even just for 10 minutes. Don’t worry about what it looks like. Just draw what you notice, what interests you, or whatever’s on your mind. Over time, you’ll start to see patterns. Little details you keep coming back to. Shapes, expressions, textures, or themes that feel like *you*. Those quiet repeats are golden clues to your voice.
The second thing is more research based. It consists of making three lists. One for who you were as a child, one for the person you are today, and one for the person you will be in the future.
Who you were : Write down childhood memories, especially the ones that really stuck with you. Think smells, textures, moments that made you laugh, or scared you, or filled you with wonder.
Who you are today: Write your current values. What do you believe in? What makes you angry? What makes you hopeful? What do you deeply care about right now?
To the person you will be : Write what you’re curious about. What do you want to learn more about if time and money weren’t an issue? Are there problems in the world that you wish you could help solve? What fascinates you?
Try to write at least 15 things in each list. Be specific. The more detail, the better. Then look at your three lists side by side. Are there any patterns or themes that pop up more than once? Circle them. Those are your vocal chords. This is what makes you unique.
Now take those highlighted words and look at your portfolio. Ask yourself: Do these ideas show up in my work? At least 5–10 of them?
If the answer is yes, then your voice is starting to shine through.
That’s when a portfolio stops being just “good” and starts becoming something “real”. Something that speaks straight from you—and straight to your audience.
