Musings
In other words …. my blog.
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”.
10 Reasons to Draw for 10 Minutes a Day
Drawing for 10 minutes daily, helps to build confidence, spark ideas, fight procrastination, and develop your unique style amongst other things. Little daily efforts slowly grow into a confident and successful creative habit .
Find out what those ten reasons are here.
Finding Your Style: Three things I Wish I Knew Sooner
Have you ever been told, “Just keep making work and your style will come”? I have. I clung to that advice for a long time. Five years, actually. I drew constantly, tried everything, experimented and ended up completely stuck and burn out.
Here are three things I wish I’d known sooner.
Style and Voice
I used to believe that I would never succeed as an illustrator because I didn’t think I had any style. I saw others post their art on social media and I was always in awe , and envious of the success they seemed to have. I tried to emulate others style in order to have that same success, and I did manage to successfully copy other artists as a means of experimentation, but i could only copy a particular piece of art. That’s until my brain realised that style and voice are two separate things that are equally important for an illustrator.
How Many Pages Are in a Picture Book?
Most picture books have 32 pages, a standard based on printing efficiency and suitable for young readers' attention spans. This article explores the reasons behind this format, its variations, and tips for writers and illustrators to plan effectively within this structure, ensuring a balanced and engaging storytelling experience.
Is There Such a Thing as an Art Burnout?
When we think of burnout, it’s often tied to demanding careers or overly busy schedules. However, burnout can happen in creative fields too—yes, even art. While art is often considered a joyful, therapeutic activity, artists can find themselves feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, or creatively drained. This is what many describe as “art burnout”. But what exactly is it, and how does it happen?
The Basics of Picture Book Structure
Picture books are concise yet impactful tools for storytelling, often spanning 24, 32, or 40 pages, with 32 being the standard. After reserving space for front matter, approximately 28 pages remain to deliver a compelling narrative arc. Each page or spread must serve a clear purpose, captivating readers from the start.
How to make your vision board
Creating a vision board is a fun and creative way to visualize your goals and dreams. It’s like making a collage of everything you want to attract into your life! Here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you create your own vision board.
What to include in a children’s books portfolio
A strong children's book portfolio should showcase a range of skills while also highlighting your unique style. Here is a list of some of the essential elements it must include.
Do Illustrators need vision boards?
Vision boards can be a powerful tool for illustrators, though they’re not essential for everyone. Whether an illustrator needs one depends on their creative process and preferences.
How to have a thriving creative business
Building a lucrative creative career is a dream for many, but achieving it requires a focused approach. Here’s a guide to help you thrive while doing what you love.
A lucrative creative career is possible, but it definitely is hard work. With unwavering dedication and the right strategy and approach, you can turn your creativity into a sustainable business.