It's just the beginning

The Make Art That Sells course is finally over and I'm more committed than ever to illustrating for children. It's definitely time to let all the lessons sink in. There was so much information presented in such a short space of time that you can't really take it all on board.
So what are my top lessons?
1. Keeping a sketchbook. This has been a bit of a revelation to me as I do most of my work digitally now and so tend to either hit delete or keep going till I like it! But now I have learned that not only is it a useful way to do a quick bit of life sketching, but it's also something that an art director might like to see.

2. Character development. Being able to get a solid feel for the character has given me a pathway into illustrating my own work. By working on emotions and poses I have learned it is possible to bring the character life and work out how they move and what they need to express before making things complicated by trying to work out their environment at the same time.

3. It's okay if your character changes -it's natural. It's good to let that happen and not get too hung up on your first attempts.

4. It's all in the details, or accessories! The little things help to make your illustration full of life!

5. That you should draw happy! Your energy goes into your work and so if you are happy when you draw, then you will have a happy picture - and people buy your joy!

6. That you can create good lettering by slowing your breathing and slowing your strokes! I have always wanted to rush my letters, but now I'm beginning to take it more slowly.

7. That it's okay to be where I am right now - and it is! I am so excited for this journey and I'm so lucky that at the moment I get to decide what I want to do. It's awesome! I am visualising a time where I have more art direction though and I am looking forward to growing and learning.

I'm already starting to work on my characters for my own children's book now and keen to build my portfolio.