Wednesday, May 26, 2010

The Horn Book!

LUCKY BEANS by Becky Birtha was reviewed in the May/June issue of the Horn Book!
It was written by Susan Dove Lemke, which feels like coming full circle, because it was an article written by her in the Horn Book called "The Faces in Picture Books" years ago that sparked me into launching a career as a children's book illustrator.

Monday, May 17, 2010

NESCBWI Conference

For an event I wasn't ready for, it was a whirlwind of fun, learning and inspiration. Anindita and Greg, with all the volunteers did an awesome job. It was neat to see my art on the big screen, too. :) Surprisingly, we've now outgrown even this new conference space. I wonder if we'll end up in or near Boston...which would be an awesome experience, especially with all the excellent restaurants so close to each other.

I wish I could have gone to more than one workshop! A device where you can be two places at once...hmmm...didn't work out too well for Hermione. Oh well.


Major highlights would be getting portfolio feedback. (Not pictured) Interestingly, I heard the same comments from published professionals and green newbies, so the truth is the truth! My "favorite" pieces don't necessarily work in this current portfolio, time to retire them!


The illustrator academy was such fun! It was a rare treat to see behind-the-scenes sketches and book dummies. I also wished I could have seen every portolio critique instead of those just at my table.

I also hoped we'd have more time to work on improving sequencing from the homework assignment. Four hours sounds like a long time, but it flies by. Watching the progression of David Costello's book was wonderful, very eye-opening. What a treat!  Speaking of treats...the food was just okay...so how did I gain four pounds???

Thursday, May 13, 2010

NESCBWI Conference!

It's this weekend! I'm glad it will be raining...that way I won't feel guilty about not spending time in the garden...:) It's tough to  balance two passions like those.