Back early in the year, I was commissioned by local author Brad Chapin to illustrate a children’s book that he had written. Since I had never illustrated a book before, it was quite a learning process. It was about creating artwork that instead of being the central focus, steps back to support the text. Leaving large blank spots in each piece to accommodate future placement of the text was a new way of doing things! There was a lot of collaboration and planning and throwing out ideas. One of my favorite parts was hiding keys, and the word hope on each of the pages. I can’t wait to sit down with my grandkids and find all the keys! The illustrations are done in mixed media, using a lot of Citra Solv altered papers, and Derwent Inktense pencils. Forty or so illustrations later, it was completed and sent off to the publisher. I am eagerly awaiting getting my hands on the final copy, now available here.
All in all it was a fun learning experience and Brad was a great author to work with.
Learn more about Brad Chapin and his work here.
My most used materials for this project:
Citra Solv page pack available here. Derwent Inktense pencils available here.
Kathy Hunter
Amazed doesn’t even touch my reaction. You are such an art inspiration. Great accomplishment and wonderful resume entry. Can’t wait to see what you excel in next.
victoryrd
Thanks Kathy!
createarteveryday
I agree with Kathy. Your blog inspires the heck outta me on a constant basis! Re: the altered papers, were they all from Geographic magazines? My neighbor works there, and she’s bringing me home a whole bunch of magazines they’d otherwise toss. I’m so excited! The papers you show at the bottom of this post are sooo beautiful! Also, congratulations on the book illustration gig! That would be so exciting. You really are an inspiration! 😀
victoryrd
Thanks! Yes, all National Geographic…what a windfall you are getting from your neighbor! I think they work best from the year 2000 and newer. Have fun Citra Solving!