Picture-Bookies

Now on ETSY!

2011-11-23T11:05:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone!!!

It's official... After many begged for me to put some of my

"for fun" pieces up on ETSY, I have done so!!!

Go check it out and pass along the link to the shop!

(Just in time for Cyber Monday and the holiday gift giving season!)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/nikkiboetger

Hallmark Baby Boy contest win.

2011-11-17T10:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-28T05:35:00.001-07:00

2011-10-08T05:34:00.001-07:00

Happy Fall, everyone!

I just finished this illo in honor of

Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Is thinking about putting up on Zazzle for people to have it on some merchandise...

Anyone ever do this with their art?

USDA Grow it, Try It, Like It Preschool teaching Package

2011-08-31T08:39:00.000-07:00

The Package of Preschool educational material I illustrated 4 years ago finally arrived. It is wonderful to see it "in person" finally.

Illustrator Showcase on Sunshine Smile Publications

2011-08-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

I have an Illustrator Showcase on Sunshine Smile Publications!

I hope you'll stop by and read the interview.

http://www.sunshinesmilepublications.co.uk/showcase/showcase-roberta-baird

http://www.sunshinesmilepublications.co.uk/home

Gravity and Sun Comic Books - Capstone Press 2011

2011-08-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

Here are illustrations from 2 Science comics published by Capstone Press. I did these in March this year. You can order them here and have fun with gravity, seasons, and the sun!

http://www.CapstonePub.com/product/9781429660976

http://www.CapstonePub.com/product/9781429660983

My Giant Doodlin' Pad - Published by Kidsbooks LLC

2011-07-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

Introducing the 12x15 Giant Doodlin' Pad I illustrated last year. It is now available at Costco and Sams Club stores. Kids can doodle on the space on the 32 illustrated story pages! This is my first book in actual retail stores!

Please visit my facebook page http://www.facebook.com/koreyscottillustration to see more page illustrations!

Read Every Day. Lead a Better Life

2011-06-06T15:09:00.000-07:00

My entry is one of the ten finalists! Go here to vote!

http://opinio.scholastic.com/opinio/s?s=5869

Thank you!

My Entry!

Sharey the Sharefish

2011-05-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a little preview of something I am working on now that I am really excited about.

This is Sharey the Sharefish. I'll put up more samples soon on my blog and facebook art page.

New Book Cover

2011-04-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wonder how animals sleep?

Coming in June, 2011!

Ruff Construction

2011-03-07T07:49:00.000-08:00

The first illustration that I did that received some notoriety was way back in 1st grade. We were instructed to draw something on a 18x24 inch piece of construction paper that would eventually be laminated and used as a nap mat (AKA-teacher needs a break mat.) My subject matter was Mike Mulligan and his steam shovel and although I can't remember what it exactly looked like, I do recall lots of classmates and adults complimenting it. So these images are sort of a homage to Mike Mulligan for me.

Howdy

2011-02-18T12:36:00.001-08:00

WWW.ScottNelsonandSon.com

A hint of things to come...

2011-02-05T08:39:00.000-08:00

There are three new books coming out this spring/summer. Here is a hint at just one...the one that I wrote and illustrated. It isn't about fish, but they are part of the adventure.

Become a fan of "Champ's Story" on Facebook!

2011-01-25T12:47:00.000-08:00

You can now join the "Champ's Story: Dogs Get Cancer Too!" fan page on Facebook. Just click HERE, and the click the "Like" button at the top of the fan page. Post your stories about the book, photos of your child reading the book, your own stories about how cancer has touched the life of you, your child or a pet. I hope you enjoy this new way to interact with the publisher, author Sherry North, illustrator (me), and other fans of the book.

For more info, please visit my blog.

The Grand Adventure

2011-01-25T11:06:00.001-08:00

The Grand Adventure is the true story of John Wesley Powell's first expedition down the Green and Colorado Rivers and through the Grand Canyon in 1869. This daring 1,000-mile journey is one of the great exploration adventures of the American West.

I have been fascinated by John Wesley Powell's into the Canyon since I was quite young and The Grand Adventure is my attempt to try and share with kids what it was like to go into a wild, unexplored area and be unsure if you would even come out alive. No maps, no GPS, no cell phones to call for help! The Colorado was a mighty river back then and the boats they went down in were so small. Image the courage and determination it took to do this — and John Wesley Powell only had one arm!

Character Sketch for Baby Moose Visits

2011-01-25T11:06:00.000-08:00

Traveling Art

2011-01-17T12:30:00.000-08:00

Art means many things to many people. A beautiful oil painting may soothe the soul for one viewer while the curves and movement of a beautiful sculpture might inspire the spirit of another.

Often I work on my water based illustration for hours and worry about them being ruined by a finger print or a haphazard spill. I scan them, take a photo of them and then squirrel them away so they are not ruined. Although there is nothing wrong with this process, I'm trying to force my art to become more tactile. To no worry if it's battered, bruised or even beat up. Just provided people are seeing it.

With this thought process I recently started a new effort to push not only my creative side but also to push public involvement in my art. I simply created an imaginative painting, attached a vague plot line along with some directions to the it's back and sent it out to the world in hopes the public will not only see my illustration but actually touch it. Heck, if a cannonball went though the art at this point I only feel that it would HELP IT! Stop by and learn more at... Captian Claude de Mouse
Keep painting!
Scott
WWW.ScottNelsonandSon.com

Ginger Nielson

2011-01-15T10:57:00.001-08:00

When I was working on Flying Poodles, A Christmas Story I needed a lantern for the barn where the reindeer were sleeping. I found a great looking one online and adapted the idea for this painting as well as for the Flying Poodles book. I really liked the way the light spread itself around the area. Yes, I am sure the fox is only interested in an egg or two. No hens will be harmed and it is pretty much a given that the mouse will sound the alarm long before the fox has fled.

My New Book

2011-01-05T13:31:00.000-08:00

I’m so excited to show you a sneak peak of my first illustrated book!
The book is a bedtime story full of sleepy, cuddly creatures of all kinds.

Look for it in early spring of 2011!

www.robertabaird.com

Wishing all a very Happy New Year

2010-12-28T08:34:00.000-08:00

And much success for each of us in the New Year.

Happy Holidays to everyone at Picture Bookies

2010-12-22T05:54:00.001-08:00

For the children and the child in all of us...

2010-12-17T09:16:00.001-08:00

For years we used to make these flour/salt dough angels, snowmen, cookie shapes,
and ornaments. Here is the recipe and some hints for creating your own angels. To see any of these charts larger, just click on the image.

After you knead the dough cover the dough with a wet paper towel to preserve the mositure. If you don't do this the dough will become too dry. If your dough is too wet you can put a little flour on your hands before you begin to roll out the body parts. Create 11 balls of dough in sizes similar to those above.

Once you have them all ready you can begin with the wings and place the head between the two wings.

Next you will begin to assemble the angel.

Once the angels and ornaments have baked to a nice hard finish you can paint them with food color, watercolors, acrylics, or just leave them plain. When you pack them away after the Holiday season, you can store them in air tight containers for the next year. Our collection grew over the years.

Here is a hint.... the smaller the object the less time it takes to bake. So check your creations after the first 20 minutes or so. These are about 3 inches high and maybe an inch and one half wide.

Flying Poodles Soars~

2010-12-02T12:51:00.000-08:00

An interactive story, written by Karen Morss and illustrated in a traditional style with children in mind, the APP is only 1.99 at the Apple APPs store.

CHRISTMAS APP BY: POODLE DOG PRODUCTIONS

RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5
BUY IT? YES
IPHONE / IPOD / IPAD APP: $1.99
UNIVERSAL APP: YES

The book is also available at any and all bookstores with the ISBN ( 978-0-615-38490-0) reference and on Amazon.com for the full book price.

Preview of "Prairie Storms" by Sylvan Dell Publishing

2010-11-27T23:57:00.000-08:00

This is the spread I created for the month of September in the upcoming picture book "Prairie Storms", by Sylvan Dell Publishing. The book is due for release in 2011. I am enjoying illustrating this book IMMENSELY!

A nice review... and a teaching moment

2010-11-17T07:19:00.001-08:00

I am always happy to see great reviews for books and when they happen to be for authors for whom I have illustrated, I am even happier. Here is a great review for Flying Poodles, A Christmas Story. Karen Morss is the talented Renaiassance Woman who created the story.

Karen's own personal story is just as exciting and entertaining.

I was able to include the northern lights in some of the illustrations. My mother grew up north of the Arctic Circle in Norway. Her stories about the Aurora Borealis always intrigued me. I did visit Alaska, but only in the summer, so I have never seen these first hand, but hopefully I will return to either Norway or Alaska and view them for myself.

2010-11-11T05:15:00.000-08:00

Life is happening
I must go away
To get some peace and solace
Just sometime to lay
Around and rest while
To strengthen my weary soul
I'll come back refreshed
and ready to go
Just wanted to let everyone know that I have
to take a break and catch my breathe. Get
a second wind. I wish each one of You a
a very Happy and blessed Holiday Season
Looking for good things in the New Year too!
Peace,
Vanessa Brantley-Newton

What came first? The children's book or the calendar?

2010-11-09T14:26:00.000-08:00

Long before I had dreams of targeting the children's book market, I dabbled in the calendar market. You see, back in the early 90's calendars were all the rage. So I came up with a silly golf character, entitled it Shank A Muligan's Golf and sent out 43 sample copies to 43 various publishers. I waited for 6 months and eventually got back 44 rejection letters. Yep. 44 when I only sent out 43. One publisher reeeaaaalllly wanted to make sure that I knew they weren't interested so they sent me two rejection letters. That aside, I eventually did sell the Shank calendar and it did really well.

During this same time frame I came up with an additional calendar concept about my favorite sport--- Bicycling. For some reason I didn't push as hard as I did with my Golf concept and it didn't sell. But years later here it is!!! My style has certainly changed but I still enjoy some of the concepts. If you're interested, check out all 12 illustrations at http://www.zazzle.com/retro_biking_calendar-158316781644169417

Shhhh! We're sleeping!

2010-11-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

Here's a peek at my first book coming out in the spring of 2011!

Poster for Little Charley Thornpaws

2010-10-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

I created some posters for the book promotions for Little Charley Thornpaws. We are only allowed to show three images from the book for promotional purposes and this is one of my favorite pieces. To make the poster the correct size for the printer I needed to add the border. The border is similar to some of the areas in the book and I had fun with all that color!

2010-10-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

Finally! I have been wanting to show you the cover of the latest book I am illustrating for Sylvan Dell, titled "Prairie Storms". Here it is! Ta-daaaaa! It is due to be released in summer of 2011. I am currently illustrating the inside spreads. I wish I could show them to you, but I have not even shown the publisher yet! It has been such an interesting project to research. This past weekend I went on a photo excursion at the Spring Valley Nature Sanctuary near my home to photograph prairie plants, trees, the sky, etc. Each of the 12 spreads inside "Prairie Storms" will feature a different month, different animal, and different storm. I just illustrated a pair of owls flying over a farm with a cloudburst and rainbow forming in the sky, and today I am painting a lizard scurrying from a flash of lightning.

Artist of the Week on Public Republic - Bulgaria

2010-10-27T05:29:00.000-07:00

I had the rare opportunity to be featured as the artist of the week on the Bulgarian Art Blog, Public-Rebpublic which is now being shared in English. It features artists from around the world on a weekly basis. I hope you will take time to have a look at the article and the other amazing artists featured on the blog. The interview was conducted by Galya Mladenova.

If you look to the right side bar on that blog you can click on and access the other artists that have been featured. Many different approaches to art are displayed.

The newest book... Little Charley Thornpaws is now available

2010-10-22T16:13:00.000-07:00

Now available from the publisher, 4 RV Publishing LLC....

Little Charley is waiting to surprise you. The storybook is perfect for preschoolers and K-1 and any adult who loves cats. Each spread features Charley doing what he does best.

Caelaach McKinna has captured some of Charley's best moments and I was happy to have the fun of illustrating them.

Here is a sneak peek.

Illustrations copyright Ginger Nielson and 4RV Publishing.

My first ever book signing *:)

2010-10-16T14:46:00.000-07:00

The book signing for Daniel and the Harmonica, by Rob Dubreuil was a fun event today. I received a beautiful birthday card from Bethany Dubrueuil. She made it herself and I will always treasure it. We had a great time today. Rob played the harmonica with great flair! I tried a little, and will practice more. The book contains a lot of harmonica notation, so every book sold was accompanied by a harmonica. Thanks to all who came, and to Rob and his family and the great people at the Toadstool in Milford, NH

This is Rob reading his book to the group. He shared his journey from writer to published author with us and even played a fantastic harmonica solo.

Get ready for the FLYING POODLES

2010-10-09T08:26:00.000-07:00

The books are in. Flying Poodles, A Christmas Story can be ordered from the website, and soon for your iPad or iPhone. That is little MAX sitting on top of the stack of signed and numbered books in this limited edition. This makes a great holiday gift *:)

Illustrated by Karen Morss, the story tells of an emergency, a rescue and the adorable heros who save Christmas Eve for the children of the world.

Flying Poodles ~ A Christmas Story

2010-10-09T06:49:00.000-07:00

from "Flying Poodles ~ A Christmas Story" written by

Karen Morss and illustrated by

Ginger Nielson.

Miss Sally helps harness little Max, who wears a hand knitted nose warmer as he prepares for the adventure of a lifetime.

The book is available from Flying Poodles and will soon be listed as an iPad/iPhone app.

The Grand Adventure

2010-09-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

My book about John Wesley Powell is now available at Amazon and other outlets. It's called The Grand Adventure, and it's the true story of Powell's first expedition down the Green and Colorado Rivers and through the Grand Canyon in 1869. This daring 1,000-mile journey is one of the great exploration adventures of the American West.

Originally copyrighted in September 2000, the journey to publish this book, not unlike Powell's expedition, was a challenge. First there were numerous query submissions to publishers that were rejected because, believe this or not, they "only want to publish true stories about history*." Many other publishers just weren't interested in picture books about historical events. And while waiting (and waiting) for publishers to review the book idea, I reworked the text several times and experimented for years with different styles for the illustrations and format - from very realistic to graphic-novel style until I finally settled on my own watercolor and pencil style. Eventually, out of frustration, I threw it back into the idea file and worked on other projects.

A couple months ago I decided to revive it and get it published through non-traditional avenues. When I first started shopping the idea around to publishers in 2000 -01 there were no other John Wesley Powell children's books on the market, now, amazingly, there are several. So, I think it's only fair, that since I have been fascinated by John Wesley Powell's trips down the Canyon since I was quite young, and because I'm a native Arizonan and have actually experienced the mystique and grandeur of the Canyon, I should share my vision of Powell's story too.

* I still have the rejection letters.

My new books have arrived!

2010-09-17T13:16:00.000-07:00

It's so fun receiving first copies of a book. Or two books! I received my first copies of Dancing Dreams and Oliver's First Christmas from Accord Publishing. I turned in the final illustrations for Dancing Dreams days before I had my baby in January, and the finals for Oliver's First Christmas were due in April. Both of these will be released within the next month.

They both use AniMotion(tm) technology, which is a fancy way of saying that there are action windows which look like animations as you turn the page. You can see the dancer in the red dress is in two different poses above. Super fun!

Kristi Valiant
www.kristivaliant.com
http://kristivaliant.blogspot.com

Tori Spelling at Park Ave Borders Book for Signing

2010-09-16T02:35:00.000-07:00

Hello Picture Bookies,
I got wonderful news on yesterday that Tori Spelling will be
in NYC doing her first book signing for, " Presenting Talluah"
her very first children's book!!! I had fun illustrating the
book. The signing will be on Sept 22, 2010, at the Park Ave.
Borders Book Store. I have only spoken to Mrs. Spelling on the phone,
so it will be a real pleasure to meet her in person. Last week I got to
be a part of Drawn for the
Brooklyn Book Festival! IT WAS AWESOME!! I had so much fun
meeting the other artist like Darren Farrell, Shane Evans,
and Mike Carvallaro.
The four of us got to draw before a large audience
while both adults and children called out things for us to
illustrate! It was crazy, but a good time was had by all.
I would love to do something like this with fellow talented
Picture Bookies! It's amazing what a little music, large pads
of paper, crayons and marker and a fun crowd can do for the
spirit! There where smiles and giggles and free artwork to take
home. I was left feeling more inspired then ever. Hopefully we
can do something like one day! That would be so grand!!!!
Have a great rest of the week!

Fall...

2010-09-13T03:36:00.001-07:00

Fall is certainly in the air, here in Ohio...

And I am welcoming it as a time for change!!!

My life has been chaotic and stressful in the last year and I am hoping that I can use fall to put all that in the past and look forward to a lot of great opportunities and positive changes!!!

This past week, I took an entire week off from the day job and freelance work... I haven't had an entire week off, since, well, never! And during that week I stayed home with my dog Ananke, watched movies, sports, cleaned, de-cluttered and did a few pieces of "for fun" art!!!!

Above is the one I finished this weekend.

This sketch has been in a sketchbook for a LONG time and is one that I have always wanted to put color into...

Well, here he is... A squirrel admiring the hoard he has gathering so far...

Enjoy! And here's a wish that we each have a wonderful September!!!

Discussion forum on facebook for the Picture Bookies

2010-09-12T04:15:00.000-07:00

There is a tab at the top of our Picture Bookies page on facebook..... DISCUSSIONS.
This is the place to have an open forum of sorts to discuss topics related to children's book illustration and products. I hope you will all take advantage of the space to sound off, vent if you wish and start a discussion on a topic that you feel is timely and appropriate.

Grow It, Try It, Like It finally out

2010-09-11T12:17:00.000-07:00

The USDA series I illustrated over 2 years ago for a series for preschoolers is finally out in print. I haven't seen it in a hard copy yet, but it can be seen online.
It was a series of several teaching booklets and workbooks for kids to use for crafts and teachers to use to help children learn to grown fruits and veggies and eat and enjoy them. It was a joy to create.

A shiny sticker on my book!

2010-09-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

Gotta love shiny stickers!

CORA COOKS PANCIT was the Picture Book Winner of the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature.

The awards gala was during the ALA Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. in June. I loved getting to meet the author of Cora Cooks Pancit at the awards gala; she's a wonderful woman. Most of the time as an illustrator I don't have any contact with my authors; the publishers like to keep us separate so we can work more creatively in telling our own half of the picture book story.

In this book, Cora loves the kitchen but her older brother and sisters always get to help with the real cooking while she gets stuck with kid jobs like licking the spoon. When her older siblings head out for the day, Cora finally gets the chance to be Mama's assistant chef. She chooses to make her Grandpa's pancit recipe, a Filipino noodle dish. The recipe is in the book and it's yummy.

This has been a busy and wonderful year for me. Cora won this award, I had a baby girl, and I've illustrated 4 more picture books for great publishers: Albert Whitman & Co, Accord/Andrews McMeel, and Standard Publishing.

Kristi Valiant
http://kristivaliant.blogspot.com
www.kristivaliant.com

The Proofs have arrived

2010-08-25T13:20:00.001-07:00

It is really exciting when you get to see the galley proofs of a book you just illustrated and they look great!

©Ginger Nielson

So many times the color can be a bit off, or some spreads don't match perfectly, but this time I am just thrilled that the proofs look great in all respects: color, design, and alignment. The book, "Flying Poodles, A Christmas Story" by Karen Morss is due out later this fall in time for Christmas. Her vision and her story are a combination of fantasy and reality and I know children and adults will enjoy her version of a Christmas Eve miracle.

In addition to the book an iPad version is also being finalized and will include audio featuring some of Karen's young neighbors as the voices of the poodles.

2010-08-24T06:05:00.000-07:00

My web page just got an entire overhaul. Stop by and visit WWW.ScottNelsonandSon.com if you get a second.

Please Welcome Korey Scott to the Picture Bookies

2010-08-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

The PICTURE BOOKIES members welcome, KOREY SCOTT to the GROUP.

Korey Scott is an illustrator who specializes in children's books, educational material, and funny characters. His work is currently a "featured portfolio" on Hire an Illustrator.

His illustration style is perfect for capturing the attention of children and adults. Korey is proud to say that his illustrations and children's books not only are fun to look at, but they provide a beneficial resource to a child's education. Children love the playful details and silly characters while adults enjoy how the illustrations encourage children to read, learn, and have fun. His illustrations can help your company by teaching children how to improve reading skills, pronunciation, and even learn English, Spanish, and other languages.

His work has won awards such as "Best Children's Book" at the 2007 North Texas Book Festival and the Golden Spur Honor Award from the Texas State Reading Association (TSRA) 2005. Teachers also enjoy using his material for class projects.

You can view more of Korey's work on his website and on his blog.

Hello Picture Bookies!

2010-08-17T11:10:00.001-07:00

Hi Picture Bookies! I look forward to sharing more of my work with everyone here. It is nice to see a lot of friends on here already. I am an illustrator in the educational, children's book market.

Right now, I am working on a couple children's books for self publishing clients as well as finishing up Kit 4 of the Literacy Speaks program by Northern Speech Services. Also, I am working with an organics company designing characters for plush animals, picture books, and all kinds of merchandise.

"Champ's Story" gets 5-Star review on Amazon.com!

2010-08-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

I have received such an overwhelming response ever since the release of my new book "Champ's Story: Dogs Get Cancer Too!", I can barely keep up. I wanted to share with you this customer review I saw posted at Amazon.com today. It made my day:
_______

This review is from: Champ's Story: Dogs Get Cancer Too! (Hardcover)
I do wish there were more books of this ilk and this quality available for children.

For adults, "cancer" has become one of the most terrifying words in our language. Most adults have some understanding of this disease, and after the initial shock of the diagnosis, can rely on knowledge, maturity and practiced emotions to deal with it...on some level at least. Children on the other hand know from a very early age that fear is involved but so often do not know why. They not only have fear of something they know is "not good," but they also have a fear of the unknown, which is indeed just as traumatic.

The author, Sherry North has used the story of a young boy and his beloved pet dog to inform the younger set just what it is they are dealing with when cancer; either of a family member, loved one, friend or pet, enters their life.

Cody and his pet Champ are preparing for an agility show and Champ is running through her paces. While petting Champ, Cody discovers a lump on her side. Cody makes a good choice in telling Champ she needs to see a doctor. Cody knows there is something wrong.

The author and illustrator, Kathleen Rietz then take us upon a journey; a journey of a victim of cancer. From the visit to the doctor's office, testing and on to the diagnosis of cancer and the treatment, the reader follows step by step. The child learns what to expect and when to expect it. The young boy shows the typical emotions of a child in this situation; shares his thoughts with his friends, and above all, becomes Champ's caregiver. You can see the care and love radiating out form the illustrations and words.

The author has used straight forward simply language to tell a complex story. Her tone is matter of fact but extremely tender, loving and understanding throughout the entire work. There is nothing scary or heart wrenchingly sad about the story; it just explains in a very understandable way what a child might well face. Information will quite often take away a lot of fear and the author certainly supplies quite a lot of good and valid facts in a relatively short book. Truthfully, I was amazed at just how much information she was able to pack into so few pages.

The last four pages of the book are sort of a "cancer fact primer" for adults to use in teaching children of this subject. Facts are given so that the reader can understand just what cancer is, how it is treated, fact and fiction surrounding this disease, coping with cancer and chemo and a page on what you can do to prevent cancer as you grow up.

The art work in this book by Kathleen Rietz is extremely well executed. Each of the frames, which cover two pages each, are done in mellow and soothing colors. Each illustration fits the text perfectly. The artist has captured the mood of each picture perfectly on the face of the dog without overly anthropomorphizing her subject...I like this...it adds much to the overall message of the book. This is a very skillful writer and skillful artist that have teamed up here!

This is an ideal work to be used in a classroom. Giving children knowledge of this disease before he or she has to actually face it, as many, many will, gives them a bit of a head start in the process of learning to deal with the many issues they will be faced.

Don Blankenship
The Ozarks

Coming Soon ... drum roll please.... An Interveiw with Kate *:)

2010-08-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

An Interview with Kathleen Rietz will be posted shortly. Her new book “Champ’s Story: Dogs Get Cancer Too” was released last week.

Comment moderation for our visitors

2010-08-09T04:06:00.000-07:00

We get a number of Chinese proverbs with each post, however some of those link back to porn sites.

So we must continue to moderate all comments. Sorry but viewers will still have to wait for us to check the comments. Almost all are great comments from people we love to see here, so just be patient if you don't see your comment right away.... it is coming as soon as we receive the notice.

Project in the Works...

2010-08-06T09:44:00.000-07:00

Yes, okay it's a carrot....
But I needed to have an image to go along with my news...

At the end of 2009, I teamed up with an Agent, Anna Johnson of AJ & Associates. And shortly after she started emailing me about a future project that she was trying to get for me (that was November). After a few months and a few design samples I was chosen to embark on this journey. Horribly, I cannot tell you anything about the project specifically, but what I can tell you is that it is for an educational publisher and it is going to take me a few years to complete.

The cool thing about this project so far is, I have been able to be apart of the evolution of the project, which is not something I would have ever expected to get to do.
We have gone through character development already and have gotten the go ahead this week to start design templates for lots of neat extras that will go along with the books that will be produced.

Okay, so why the carrot...?
Well, a large part of this project is going to challenge me. I will be designing layouts, covers, packaging & more. And a big part of the art needs to be Vector... I rarely work in Vector... It just doesn't follow how I normally paint. So, now I am trying to do little illustrations of just random things and then turn them into Vector images... Which is the reason for the carrot...

I am very excited about this opportunity to not only be illustrating books, but to also be doing a large portion of the graphic design work too. I just hope I don't go too long without being able to show you a smidge of what it is I am working on...

Here's to 2010!!!

Up, Up and Away

2010-07-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

I've done a few things in the past, from theatrical set designer and muralist to Montessori teacher... but always in the background I pursued illustration. Not always as diligently I wanted to... but always trying to learn more and hone my skills.
Now that I have the ability to work at my craft full time, I'm trying to step up the promotional send outs to one every other month. Hopefully the persistence and crossed fingers pays off in the end! So that's what I've devoted this year to.... holding up my hand, waving my flag, Ill even dance if need be..... OK I have two left feet so that won't work!

This is the next one in the lineup! Up, up and away!

Back When We Were New

2010-07-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

After reading Kate's insightful post I got to thinking about how we all came to be here as a group. The

PICTURE BOOKIES GROUP

was started by three artists who had a vision of a lifetime of creating art for children's books. Sherry Rogers, Ginger Nielson and Amy Moreno got together and formed the core of a group that has now grown to 12 talented and dedicated children's book Illustrators. It was just about this time in 2006 that the group created a website with images, interviews and bio pages for the core and 5 more artists.

Since that time we have changed a bit, grown some, and seen successes on many levels. The group that inhabits this space today is a team of individuals who are still dedicated to their craft. The goal is the same, to inspire and motivate children to love and read books for life. The illustrations we create are meant to expand the pleasure of the journey and enrich the written word with treasures for the mind.

Weather creating in a traditional, digital, or something of a hybird media, each artist brings a special gift to the children who read and enjoy our books. So today ~

So today ~ HAPPY BIRTHDAY PICTURE BOOKIES

Your Stand-out Moment

2010-07-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

Hi Picture Bookies! This morning, as I work on my 4th picture book in less than 2 years, I am thinking back on my other books and my career as a children's book illustrator, and my favorite "stand-out" moments. As you may relate, illustrating a children's book is not a job as much as a journey. As artists, we give ourselves as we give our art, and lend our talents to a story in a way that is unique from any other artist.

So as I am reminiscing, certain "stand-out" moments come to mind, moments I am proud of or made me especially happy to be a picture book illustrator.

One of those moments was when I finished "The ABCs of yoga for Kids" and flew to CA for 2 book signings and a school visit. I was so proud! I felt as though I had accomplished something. Kids have been amazingly receptive to the book, and it has won 6 awards now. Every time I have ever handed the book to a child - even a child who is not old enough to read - I see them delight in trying out the poses they see illustrated in my book. they love pretending that they are frogs, dolphins, warriors...and I feel my job is done! You see, I grew up in a chaotic environment, and my "safe place" was found in the pages of my favorite children's book illustrations. Even before I could read, the pictures inside books sucked me in. I remember "The Ugly Duckling" and "The Patchwork Elephant" were two books that deeply engaged me and helped the world make sense to me. I don't know that "The ABCs of yoga for Kids" has the same exact meaning for kids that my favorite books meant to me as a kid, but in this age of video games, electronic over-stimulation and texting, I think that any book that can evoke a kid play an active role in "pretending" is accomplishing something grand! I am so grateful I was chosen to be a part of that experience.

The other "stand-out" moments for me have been choosing the people to whom I want to dedicate my books. That is an important decision, I think, a chance to publicly thank and acknowledge the people who have propelled me toward where I am today, played an important part in my past or my present, or offered support and guidance. I dedicated "Little Black Ant on Park Street" to my mother, who gave me a love for art, nature and God. I would not be the artist I am today if not for her influence.

What are your "stand-out" moments as a children's book illustrator?

Sneak Peek to my next book!

2010-07-08T03:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a sneak peek inside my next book, Stork Musters& Critter Clusters...

A cloud of grasshoppers rode noisy choppers.

This is book 2 in a set of 3 of the Critter Series.

Book 1 was released in January, Lemur Troops & Critter Groups, can

be purchased via 4RV Publishing's site, Amazon or Barnes and Noble.com.

If you use Facebook to keep in touch with what your friends are doing,

I would like to invite you to stop by my fan page, Nikki Boetger Illustrations!

Enjoy!!!

In My Bath, and Author interview

2010-06-30T20:19:00.000-07:00

Beth Bence Reinke, the author of In My Bath has a lovely interview posted here on Beverly Stowe McClure's Blog. I think you will really enjoy how she arrived at the story and the inspirations that helped her create such a winning work.

I was pleased to have been chosen to illustrate her story. The images she describes can only contribute more fun to bathtime.

Beth Bence Reinke

Look what I got!

2010-06-30T09:13:00.000-07:00

Last week I received my first copy of my latest illustrated children's book "Champ's Story: Dogs Get Cancer Too!", by Sylvan Dell Publishing, written by Sherry North. The book is due to be released this August.

It's such a great feeling holding a new book in my hand. It always brings back memories of all of the hard work that goes into illustrating a children's book.

I dedicated the book to my dog, Sunshine. :)

Vanessa Brantley Newton ~ An Interview

2010-06-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

What helped you decide to become a Children's Book illustrator?

Desire and need. I desired to see picture books that I saw when I was a child and most of those illustrators and writers are long gone but their stories and pictures are indelibly printed on my brain forever. I wanted to give that same gift to some child and perhaps some adult as well. I have also learned through the publishing industry that there is a great need for African American children to see themselves in picture books. It is my joy to create character that not just African Americans can relate to, but a very multicultural generation. It does my heart good to see a child beholding themselves or seeing a character that reminds them of themselves or Mommy or dad, Grandma or Auntie or a playmate. It's priceless!

Did you have formal art school training, or are you self taught?

I am largely self taught, but I have attend both The Fashion Institute of Technology as well as The School of Visual Arts both in New York.

How did you go about breaking into Children's Book Illustration?

My husband has been without full time employ for close to 7 years. 9 11 really took a toll on his work as an AreoSpace engineer. I hadn't really been doing much work in the field of illustration working as a full time phlebotomist and then I was laid off as well and we had no income coming in. I started painting again to bring a little money in. Before I knew it I was pulling out all my books on children's book illustration and writing. I ate them up and studied and honed my craft. My husband and I picked up some part time work to bring money in, but we needed more. I purchased a copy of "The Children's Writers and Illustrations Market" It became a bible so to speak for me. I studied it and read it everyday. My living room table was filled with piles of artwork that I had created. My husband became so frustrated with our living room looking like an art studio. I was asked to clean up the living room and I really tried, but I couldn't do it fast enough. A friend called to say that she was coming over. I tried to remove as much art work as I could before she got there, but I still had a pile of work there. My friend and I spent hours talking and she started asking me , "Who's artwork is this?" I told her it was mine and apologized for having it all over the place. She turned to me and asked, " Do you know what I do for a living?" She and I never talked about work or anything of the sort it was to stressful for me. Anyway, I said," I have no idea." She then said, " Vanessa, I work for Scholastic Inc. I am a Chief Editor of Read and Rise Magazine and we are looking for your kind of work. YOU ARE HIRED!" I've been working in children's books ever since. Boy am I glad I didn't clean off that table.
he he he he!!

What motivates you and how do you stay inspired?

Looking at other artist and illustrators work, reading all kinds of children's books, visiting illustrator blogs and collecting vintage children's books.

What do you love about being a Children's Book Illustrator?

The ability to play and create characters that live inside my head. To bring them to life on a piece of paper and then give them stories to live out their imaginations and thoughts.

What types of challenges do you face when researching information for your illustrations?

I wish that there was a book for illustrators that had pictures of what I needed as reference for a story that I am illustrating at the time. I know that there is stuff on the internet, but sometimes it's hit or miss for me. I want to create such reference hand book for illustrators. Like, when you need to see a child walking home from school you would be able to see a picture reference of the child walking from every view and in a spring scene, winter or fall. We would be able to see it from different perspective as well.

Tell us about your workspace. Do you have a studio?

We are in the process of moving right now. Packing and boxes. I have taken a small little area in our daughters room for now to work in while she is at school. It's just big enough for me to do my digital work in. If I am working on collage or a larger piece of work I go downstairs to our dinning room and work there. In the house that we are moving too now, I will have a studio to work in and I am excited about that!!!

How do you work or how do you approach an assignment?

First with lots of excitement! he he he he! I do lots of research on what it is that I'm going to be illustrating if it's a children's book.
I read the manuscript over and over and over again. I do some character sketches and then I do lots of research. I will go to the library or look through some of my own books. Sometimes Lori Norwicki my agent, will brainstorm with me. When I feel like I'm ready, I do some really loose ugly thumbnails. They are just me. It's storyboarding that gets me sometime. It's one of the hardest things for me. Once I feel comfortable with my thumbnail I start laying out each page. I like work in spreads when doing books. If I am working on a greeting card or ad, I start with some inspiration. I visit blogs of my fellow illustrators or purchase some fashion magazines and news papers just to get a bead on the project. Then I do some rough sketch and then after approvals I dive in!

Do you make school visits? library talks? book siginings? How can interested parties contact you?

I do lots of school visits as well as library readings and a few book signings too. They can contact Coy L. Curry who manages appearances and appointments for me. Coysing@aol.com

Have you been published? If so, where can we find your books.

Yes. You can find my books at Barnes and Nobles and of course Amazon.com

What are you working on now?

I am working on three books right now. Magic Trash, One Love, and Zulay.All of these will be released later this year.

What is something about you that kids might like to know?

I love, love, LOVE watching cartoons. I enjoy watching hours of Chowder, Dexter's Lab, The Power Puff Girls, Finius and Freb and Sponge Bob as well as my old favorites, Bugs Bunny, The Flintstones, and Top Cat.

What advice would you give to those hoping to write and illustrate children's books?

I love what I get to do every single day. I hone it with reading both good and bad children's books. I watch children. I enjoy being with children. I would say you have to somewhat like children and think a little like them. For me a lot like them. Do some research of your own. Go to Barnes and Nobles and look at what they have on display. Purchase a few children's books and then purchase some books on writing and illustrating children's books. Develop a great portfolio of work YOU LOVE. Put only the best stuff into that portfolio. If you are worried about not having things to put into your portfolio not to worry. Give yourself some projects. Get an old fairy tale and illustrate a spread or two. Do some of the illustration prompts for Illustration Friday. This will build work for your portfolio. It doesn't have to be a hired work. It's your personal work and this is fine. Write everyday. I don't care if it's note to your child or family member a thought or idea for a book. Just write and draw something everyday. Lastly, believe that it can happen. You all have heard how hard it is to break into this business. Question is, " How badly do you want to write or illustrate children's book?" I was determined to do this whether I publisher picked up my book or not. I knew that I had something to say and something to draw and I did it, scared, but I did! Oh one more thing, "If you are going to survive out here you have GOT to develop a strong and very thick skin. Learn to take criticism very early on. It's nothing personal just the natural part of the business of creating illustrations and stories for the publishing industry.

Nikki Boetger Illustrator

2010-06-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

What helped you decide to become a Children's Book illustrator?

I decided very early in high school to focus on going to art school. I attended Columbus College of Art & Design and during that time you meet with advisors to see where your strengths are. I originally wanted to work in the animation field, as a storyboard artist, but my advisors really pushed me to consider Illustration as a field. I researched and talked to teachers and other illustrators and decided it did fit my lifestyle and allowed me to do more with my talents. So, I moved my major to Illustration and am SO very happy I did.

Did you have formal art school training, or are you self taught?

I grew up drawing on the back of place mats in restaurants, on the back of school papers and in handmade sketchbooks. As I moved up through school, art teachers acknowledged my abilities and made extra effort to challenge me in art. In high school, teachers really suggested this to me and so I researched the idea and knew right away that going to art school was meant for me. I attended Columbus College of Art and Design from 1997 to 2001 and graduated with a Bachelor's of Fine Arts and Illustration.

How did you go about breaking into Children's Book Illustration?

It actually happened by accident. I was working on building a strong portfolio and felt I was in NO way ready to start submitting to publishers or other children's illustrating markets. I had started a blog to start to get feedback on my work and start to be involved in the online community. The editor on my first picture book found me by visiting my blog. I was VERY nervous, but it really gave me confidence to say that I was ready to start submitting and to, well, JUMP in!

What motivates you and how do you stay inspired?

Right now I work as a part time Illustrator and still work a full time day job as a graphic designer for a library system. Whenever I need motivation I head to the children's department to just flip through picture books. It is great therapy and really helps to get my artistic juices flowing.

What do you love about being a Children's Book Illustrator?

I love getting emails from parents and their children telling me what they liked or loved about the illustrations. It reminds me why illustration is so important to promoting literacy. I also love being able to start from the beginning and reading the manuscript for the first time and starting to envision what the pages might look like. They never end up as they were in the beginning stages. The evolution of an illustration can be an amazing process to watch!

How do you work or how do you approach an assignment?

I like to start by just reading the story, over and over and over again. I keep a notebook and each time I go through the script I get new ideas. After I feel like I have a good amount of notes. I then see it as a puzzle. How should the pages turn?, Where does the actions happen?, How can I make this interesting to parents as well as children?, are some of the questions I ask myself. Then I start to make more sense of my notes and formulate a plan for the book. During this process, I like to run ideas past the editor or art director, to makes sure I am not steering away from their vision. Once I have a good game plan I start thumbnail sketches of the layout, sort of like a storyboard. And it goes from there....

Do you make school visits? library talks? book siginings? How can interested parties contact you?

Though I haven't done many visits as of yet, I am very willing to do school and library visits and book signings. It is a lot of fun to talk to people about books and literacy, but put an illustrator's spin on why it's so important. You can find contact information for me on my website, www.nikkisartroom.com.

Have you been published? If so, where can we find your books.

I have two picture books out now.

What's Wrong with Mud? written by Gillian Colley This book is available for purchase by contacting me or by visiting www.abcpress.com

Lemur Troops and Critter Groups written by Rena Jones This book is available for purchase by visiting Amazon.com or the publisher's website at http://www.4rvpublishingllc.com/Childrens_Books.html

What are you working on now?

I am finishing the second book in the Critter Series, Stork Musters and Critter Clusters and working on the third book, Pony Strings and Critter Things. I am also working with my agent on some projects that are considered, "unmentionable" at this time.

What advice would you give to those hoping to write and illustrate children's books?

This business is a lot different for authors than it is illustrators, in my opinion. It is a very hard business to get started in, but once you get your feet wet it is very rewarding and worth every rejection letter you have received or will receive in the future!!!

Nikki Boetger

www.nikkisartroom.com

www.pinkpencil.blogspot.com

Mark Hicks Author/Illustrator

2010-06-11T04:34:00.000-07:00

What helped you decide to become a Children's Book illustrator?

It has been a life-long passion. As I child I would write and illustrate stories whenever I could. (Often in class to the dismay of my teachers.) I loved books and I loved drawing. It just seemed like a natural thing to do.

Did you have formal art school training, or are you self-taught?

I’m self-taught and proud of it. I tried taking a drawing class once in college. On the first day of class there was a bowl of fruit on the table. Ever since fourth grade I had drawn a bowl of fruit on the first day of art class. I was already working as an artist and I certainly didn’t want to draw any more bowls of fruit. So I changed to a business class and started learning more about drawing and art on my own.

How did you go about breaking into Children's Book Illustration?

I knew I wasn’t going to just jump into freelancing and become a children’s book illustrator right away. I knew I was going to have to prove myself, so I started out by doing art for children’s magazines and other publications and eventually started submitting samples of my work to children’s book publishers. My first book assignment was about postal workers. Not the type of first book assignment that I had dreamed of, but it was a start.

Have you been published? If so, where can we find your books?

You can find my books in the library, bookstore, online, and on at my website, http://www.BookIllustrator.com

What are you working on now?

Some magazine assignments, a couple of book ideas, and some inventions.

What advice would you give to those hoping to write and illustrate children's books?

Persevere. Perseverance is a large part of being a successful writer and illustrator. Don't give up when your art is rejected by a publisher. You can’t give up when others doubt you. Find a way to tell your story and/or show your art.

What is something about you that kids might like to know?

I’m still a child at heart and I love creating fun stuff for kids of all ages. Go here for some of my fun stuff: http://www.markix.net/fun.html

What is something about you that everybody might like to know?

I dream of creating for the joy of creating. I have literally thousands of ideas for paintings, books, inventions, sculptures, and much more. My goal is not really to have these projects published or for them to become commercial successes, but simply to create. However, for reasons I don’t understand, there seems to be unseen forces in this world that prevent so many creatives from fulfilling their dreams by placing insurmountable obstacles in their creative path. And, sadly, I seem to be no exception. But oh, to think what I could do if I could just find the time, support, and resources to match my imagination.

THe INTERVIEW SERIES

2010-06-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

Over the next few weeks the PICTURE BOOKIES GROUP will be featuring interviews with the talented members of this group.

You can look for them on FRIDAYS , beginning June 11, 2010 and we hope you will not only comment on their views, journeys, and accomplishments but will feel free to ask questions, visit their personal websites, explore their books and encourage them to reach ever higher.

Strange Pets

2010-06-08T06:55:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone.
It's been a long while, but I wanted to share with you this
new book that I am working on called, "Strange Pets"
I am working on the sketches right now and hope to have
it finished by Christmas. What's the strangest pet you
ever saw??? Have a good one.
V

New Books for 2010...

2010-06-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

This past year and a half has been a fortunate one for me as an illustrator. It proves that really hard work pays off... well it may not pay as well financially, but it certainly does pay
in credits, books illustrated,good karma, and nice rewards as the books begin to sell*:).

Four of the books I have illustrated are either available now, or will be this fall. Working with Stemmer House Publishers for Daniel and the Harmonica was a joyful challenge. Due out in September the picture book challenged me to create crowds of people for a young boy's day out in the park with his harmonica. Robert Dubreuil's story asks "What could happen if you play a very special harmonica in a park on a sunny afternoon?"
Answer: ALMOST ANYTHING!

This book will delight the 4-9 group and may be the beginning of a young harmonica player's career in your home.

Also due out this fall is A Wish and A Prayer, by Beth Bence Reinke. I really enjoyed working on the illustrations for this picture book that asks the question, "Is a Wish better than a Prayer?"
As soon as I have my copies, I plan to read this one at our children's time in church and leave several copies in the church libraries. A good target audience for this book is the 5-8 year old but it could be used easily for 4-9 because of the gentle message.

Currently available from the publisher, 4RV PUBLISHING, LLC are In My Bath, by Beth Bence Reinke, is a great book for the pre-schooler and kindergarten to first grade crowd.

If Wishes Were Fishes, by N.A.Sharpe, will be fun to read for all the
havoc it causes for J.T. For anyone in primary school and even before, this book will have them laughing and most likely trying to do exactly as J.T. does.

You can order In My Bath and If Wishes Were Fishes right now and also available for Pre-order, A Wish and A Prayer by Beth Bence Reinke.

When you order the books, any or all, just shoot me an email and I will send you an illustrated, signed book plate for your copy or one you plan to give as a gift.

Coloring Contest!

2010-06-01T09:32:00.001-07:00

Starting today and ending June 22nd, I am having a coloring contest for my picture book, Lemur Troops & Critter Groups. The contest is open to children 10 and under. All you have to do is copy the sheet above and give to a child to color. Once the sheet has been colored, scan it and email it back to me and I will be posting them in a special slideshow and album.

Each child who enters will be put into a special drawing for a chance to win a book related prize. If for some reason you can't scan it, please contact me for a way to mail it in.

Enjoy!

The Website Revamped!

2010-06-01T08:49:00.000-07:00

So I figured it was time to revamp my website. You know... update the portfolio, give it new look that jives better with the blog. I hope you'll check it out and tell me what you think!
www.robertabaird.com

The world of technology gets more interesting each day.

2010-05-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

I tried to upload a short trailer for If Wishes Were Fishes, written by N. A. Sharpe, and for some people it did not play. This morning I redid the entire page and movie, and hope it will show up for anyone who wants to hear some fun music and take a look at the next book.

If Wishes Were Fishes

2010-05-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

A second book I illustrated for 4RV publishing is due to be released this June. If Wishes Were Fishes was written by N. A. Sharpe. A child's point of view makes some of the statements adults make come to life in a very literal sense.

I have a short trailer on my website for If Wishes Were Fishes. if you want to take a peek. Hopefully the trailer is working. Some viewers had trouble seeing it. The other trailer for
IN MY BATH does seem to be working okay.

All 4RV books are available on the 4RV website, Amazon.com and any and all bookstores.

Time to Clean Your Room!

2010-05-19T07:14:00.000-07:00

In keeping with my resolution to promote, promote, promote... This is going to be another new postcard. I've got a few lined up to go out. Fingers crossed!
A Mouse in the House

Shifting Gears

2010-05-19T06:47:00.001-07:00

To this day I can still hear my cranky old art professor's words ringing in my head from way back in 1986... "Class-- you need to wear as many hats as possible if you're gonna make it in this business!!! You can't draw one thing well and expect to make a living as an artist. Draw everything for everyone and you'll hit at least one out of the park!!" Now I loved this teacher so to me anything he said was gold. All I wanted to do was impress him artistically so I listened to his words of wisdom and when I opened my studio in 1987 I tried to draw as many styles and wear as many artists hats as possible. The varied work allowed me to pay my rent but I wasn't really finding my "niche" in the art community and I couldn't figure out why. Then came the early 90's and I started to advertise in Black Book, American Showcase, Picture Book, Etc. The art directors kept saying to me, "Scott, you need to showcase one style and one look only." This went against everything I'd been doing to date. I even went back and talked to my old professor to question this marketing dilemma and he said, "Baaah...They just want to sell more add space. Feature all your stuff." So I did and the result was I now realize I was simply confusing the art directors who looked at my work. Who was this Scott Nelson guy and what actual style does he do well? Inevitably they'd pass on me because the artist on the next page would showcase one style done well not 8 styles done mediocre. So over time I've learned to try and brand myself with one "me" style yet I still enjoy all the looks I do. So just for old time sakes and to honor the best art professor EVER__ the late Alex Gazonas... I'm going to feature two looks in this thread to really confuse my point. Bottom line, drawing is fun but when it comes to spending your marketing dollar...less is more. RIP Alex

2 new books - Dancing Dreams & Oliver's First Christmas

2010-05-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

I have 2 picture books coming out this fall that I illustrated. The first is DANCING DREAMS, to be released in September 2010 by Accord Publishing. In this story, Gracie dreams of dancing everything from ballet to hula to flamenco:

And this one is from OLIVER'S FIRST CHRISTMAS, to be released in October 2010 by Accord Publishing. Here, Oliver the puppy is staying up to wait for Santa (oops - he fell asleep!):

Kristi Valiant
www.kristivaliant.com
http://kristivaliant.blogspot.com

Also Coming Soon... If Wishes Were Fishes

2010-05-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

Another book will also be released this June. Currently it is listed as available for Pre Order along with In My Bath. This picture book explores the confusion that can result from "adult speak" when grown ups use terms like "If wishes were fishes, we'd all cast our nets..." OR "let's get our ducks in a row..."

You can just imagine how a 6 year old could interpret that and a number of other expressions we sometimes take for granted. This all results in some very funny scenes that were so much fun to illustrate.

Written by N. A Sharpe, the picture book is a great read that fosters the bond between grandparents and their grandchildren. It will be enjoyed by children and adults and will most likely bring up some interesting questions about the kind of language we use from time to time.

Published by 4RV Publishing, LLC it is listed as available for pre order as of May 15. If their website has not caught up with the deadlines, I'll post another update here soon.

Coming Soon.... to a bookshelf near you...

2010-05-12T05:00:00.001-07:00

Coming Soon ~ In My Bath ~
I have had the privilege of illustrating a charming picture book written by Beth Bence Reinke. IN MY BATH is scheduled for release by 4RV Publishing LLC, this June. Children will love the adventurous imagination of a young boy who turns bath time into a splash, swish, and slosh of a romp!

Little Piggy...

2010-05-06T14:52:00.001-07:00

This little piggy was my doodle for today...

I am going to start trying to soften my illustration look...

I love my linework, but have found that a lot of jobs pass me by because it is too heavy for such soft looking characters.. I also want to toy around with making my digital work look more like a traditional method of painting or maybe even color pencil...

This was just something I did while on a break at the day job. It is done in Photoshop with a dry brush...

I like it for a quick sketch...

Your thoughts?

Oh, and I truly am sorry for not blogging in over a month.

I am working diligently on a book project because I have another project coming down the pipeline that will start this summer...

Enjoy!

Traveling Sketchbook

2010-05-03T11:16:00.000-07:00

This is a piece done for the "Happy Feats Traveling Sketchbook." The book has been visiting all over the world and finally made it to my little part of Texas!

FAREWELL, TROWBRIDGE?

2010-04-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

I thought I would let you all know that it appears that The Trowbridge Chronicles will be frozen in time on Saturday. As many of you know, there has been announcements of FTP changes that will be take place on Saturday, May 1. That's just two days away.

All those involved have been informed that they should make the necessary changes before then. Since I'm still a relative neophyte when it comes to computer technology, I'm not up to speed on what I would need to do to make the change over.

It's my understanding that my Trowbridge blog won't disappear. I just won't be able to make any new posts on the blog after May 1. So that's why I say that it will be frozen in time, at least for the time being.

If anyone has any brilliant ideas on what I might do about the situation, I'm wide open for suggestions.

Auntie Mabel Coming to a store near You

2010-04-27T06:28:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,
Just wanted to share some great news. I just finished a book
that I wrote called, "Don't Let Auntie Mabel Bless the Table"
I thought that it would be out around Thanksgiving this year, but
I found out that it is going to be released on my Husbands
birthday! July 28,2010. We are so excited! This was in the makings for
well over 15 years. I thought that my mom would be around to
see all of this, but sadly is gone, but never forgotten.
This has been a real journey for me as I tried to back
out of doing it. Every story about putting a children' book
together isn't a pretty or happy one. This one wasn't!! Lots
of days of wanting to just walk away from the project and
scrapping the whole thing. I worked with my agent on the
book who talked me out of jumping off the roof many
times while working on it. Blue Apple Books and Chronicle Books
are the magnificent publishers of the book. Watch for it
July 28th 2010.
Thanks

Something Nice Happened

2010-04-19T06:47:00.000-07:00

I have the pleasure and honor of being featured in the "Spotlight" on the Hire An Illustrator portfolio website. Since joining HAI I have found the site to be most supportive of the artists and illustrators that it represents. Take a peek if you have time and visit the other fine illustrators that are on the site. Joining is easy and there are fee options that are inviting.

Daisy Chain

2010-04-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

My 25th

2010-04-09T09:02:00.000-07:00

Today I celebrate my silver anniversary of freelancing. On April 9, 1985 I began working full-time as a freelancer with little more than a drawing table, a sketch pad, some paint, a couple of brushes, pens and pencils, and a few sheets of illustration board. Freelance life wasn't as complicated back then -- no computer, no cell phone, less competition. My first real assignment was cover art for The Pennywhistle Press, a children's Sunday newspaper supplement published by the Gannett Company.

It hasn't been easy and I haven't made a whole lot of money, but I've sure had a lot of fun creating stuff over the years. And I'm very grateful for my wonderful wife and daughter and all the friends who have been so supportive over the years. So here's to twenty-five more years (I'll need at least that many before I can afford to retire!)

Back in 1985...

* All art samples were sent by "snail" mail. At 22 cents, first-class stamps were a bargain.
* There were no color copiers so you had to send original art, slides or photographs as samples.
* At about $10,000, a "graphics" computer was out of the question for a starving artist.
* Fax machines and mobile phones existed, but were also prohibitively expensive.
* I often worked in black and white for many assignments because color was too expensive to print for many companies. And when color was indicated, it was often just spot color and had to be separated by hand using Rubylith.

Visit my website to see some of the artwork I've created over the years.

Simple isn't so simple.

2010-04-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

Been working on a series of very simple cartoons. The plan-- crank out a bunch each day for an upcoming venture. Problem, sometimes drawing simple isn't so simple for me. I'd much rather add lots of detail then have my line work do the talking for me. Anyone else have this problem?

Character Study ~ Meet Orin

2010-04-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

In a dimly lighted room, In a scruffy beat up chair,

Orin sat amongst the memories…. and wished that she was there.

This is a character that I've been working on. He comes complete with his own poem!

stay tuned…..

Many Hoppy Returns ~

2010-04-03T11:33:00.000-07:00

Pen, ink, watercolor

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter Picture Bookies!

Drum City Coming to a City Near You!

2010-04-03T05:01:00.000-07:00

Hello Picture- Bookies!!
I just wanted to tell everyone about the surprise I got in the mail yesterday.
Over a year ago I got to work on a wonderful book written by Thea Guildone.
It's was her very first book called "Drum City."
Tricycle Press sent me a copy and I was so happy with how it came out. I had such fun with this
book. I got to do pretty much what I wanted to do which is very rare in picture books.
What happens when a boy is over heard playing his homemade drum in his back yard? A bunch of
kids get inspired and want to join in!!! The whole city becomes a drum of sorts. I got to do collage
in this book which is my favorite. The book has a retro feel and has so many fabulous characters
in it. I come from a very multicultural back ground so it shows up in my illustrations.
The book is due in stores in June 2010.
Have a great weekend everyone!

Not So Simple

2010-03-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

I'm currently working on the roughs for a poem book for babies. Seems simple enough. Just create simple pictures, add some bright colors and I'm done. Right? Wrong. Sometimes the simpler the assignment the harder it seems to get it right. Why is that?

Please weigh in on this subject by leaving your thoughts and comments. I'd love to hear not just from artists, but from creatives from all disciplines.

Pages in Blogger and More fun for all...

2010-03-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Recently Blogger added some neat new updates. One of those is PAGES. With pages you can create stand alone pages and use tabs under the header on your blog for navigational aids to your visitors. I am doing this with the Blogger in Draft . This is the first step and you can get information on the new format for Blogger, new templates and more.

Because I was looking for an easier way for people to Naviate the Adventures of Winston the Wonderhound, blogger in draft led me to explore PAGEs. Pages in Blogger will allow you to create stand alone pages that can be accessed via tabs just under your header image. You can see what I mean if you visit Winston's blog.

Traditional vs. Digital

2010-03-26T05:44:00.000-07:00

I've been asked what I enjoy working in more. "Traditional art supplies or digital art programs?" My answer is, "I enjoy what I'm working with at that specific time." I'm not just saying that either. I really mean it! Once I start creating a piece I literally get lost in the process. Hours can go by and I'm oblivious to it. I'm simply excited to be trying a new softer colored pencil, working in tempera paints with a palette knife or simply clicking my mouse on a new filter.
That aside, the business of creating art for a living requires you to "BRAND" yourself. Or in other words, create and market a style that is recognizable as YOU! So how can you brand yourself in traditional materials AND digital? Over time I've learned to not force my style to change to keep up what is popular but rather allow the materials I'm working in to change it for me. My water colors will always look different than my Corel colors so it'll be different__ yet the same. Thus my love for drawing every day has never diminished and I'm still excited to be trying new stuff.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-17T00:45:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patty's Day to everyone here at Picture Bookies!
Have a wonderful one!

Letter from a Mom

2010-03-09T18:27:00.000-08:00

I just did a series of programs at some schools on the Washington coast a couple of weeks ago. I received this note from one of the parents who ordered one of my books. During my program I had given her child one of the pens that I use for my drawing, a Micron Pigma pen. I frequently give away some of my pens that are on the "downside" at my school appearances. This was her note:

"Mr. Smith: Alyssa guessed that you were drawing an egg and you gave her your pen as a prize (she says it was the very pen you wrote all your books with). She took it out of her back pack to show me the first thing she got off the bus, then held it the entire way home telling me all about it. She wanted to write with it first thing she got home but had to wait until after bath and dinner. She then skipped on reading stories and wrote three of her own instead! Thanks for inspiring our daughter! The Brock Family"

This is why I so much enjoy doing my school programs.

Stories For Children Final Issue

2010-03-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

Here's an illustration done for a poem in the last issue of Stories for Children Magazine. They're closing their doors for a while, but vow to come back in the future!

Picture Book Winner of the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature

2010-03-05T13:27:00.001-08:00

More great news: CORA COOKS PANCIT was the Picture Book Winner of the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature! Last year, the winner was WABI SABI, which is an incredible picture book, so I'm thrilled to be in such amazing company!

The award ceremony is during the ALA Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. in June.

Pattern Making in Painter

2010-03-05T08:18:00.001-08:00

I had some fun with pattern making this morning and I wanted to share. The process is made easy in Painter. You just need something you love to start with. In this case I used an illustration that I had finished.

I selected parts of it to generate into a Kaleidoscopic image and then captured the image as a pattern. Here are the results and a small sample of what they look like as a pattern. The patterns can be adjusted to any size so they can be larger for more visual reference to the original picture or smaller for a design effect.

And this last one is my favorite. I think it would make a great TILE in kids bathroom. Not all the tiles, but just a few scattered here and there. Or maybe PJs with the child's initials in the blank spot or a different animal in the center of each square.

The center of this looks so much like a trampoline that I could even try putting one of the characters there being tossed up by the others. How much fun!

City Life in the Winter

2010-03-03T06:26:00.001-08:00

I only lived in the city for a short time, but I remember WINTER... and these guys up very, very high on the rooftops. They always looked so forlorn and forgotten. This one is a baby. You can tell because he still has feathers on his head. When he is older the feathers will slowly give way to the more recognizable balding head of a vulture.

Children's Greeting Cards

2010-03-02T16:22:00.000-08:00

I have been asked to do a few illustrations for a card company.
I would really like to do more work with greetings cards.
It's my favorite type of illustration. This is the sample card
I worked up. Have any suggestions I would love to hear from
you.
Thanks everyone

Happy Read Across America Day!

2010-03-02T15:15:00.000-08:00

Reading The Picnic Day and Ellwood's Plans to students today was fun. I hope all of you Picture Bookies had the opportunity to share your books and talent today as well.

(You can read all about it by clicking on the picture.)

Check your Mobile Phone

2010-02-25T13:12:00.000-08:00

You can now find selected images from my portfolio on your iPhone, Blackberry or other internet accessible cell phone.

The address is http://www.gingernielson.com/mobile

And for this I have to thank Dani Jones, who figured it out and pointed the way. She posted a complete tutorial and you can follow along and create your own iPhone presence.

The key is a short code placed after the head code and keeping your images no wider than 300px and optimizing them for the web.

You simply create a new webpage with your images lined up vertically. You can see great examples on Dani's tutorial using the link above.

2010-02-24T14:52:00.000-08:00

CORA COOKS PANCIT, a picture book I illustrated in 2009, was reviewed in the November, 2009 issue of School Library Journal!

LAZO GILMORE, Dorina K. Cora Cooks Pancit. illus. by Kristi Valiant. unpaged. glossary. CIP. Shen's. 2009. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-1-885008-35-0. LC 2008045836.

PreS-Gr 3--When Cora's Filipino family cooks together, she's always stuck doing the "kid jobs." Then one day when her older siblings are out and about, Cora gets her chance to bond with Mama in the kitchen. She even gets to choose her favorite dish, so the two of them make a large bowl of noodles, chicken, and vegetables called pancit. Clear expository prose explains how to perform kitchen tasks. For example, Mama tells Cora, "Open the package of rice noodles and put them in this bowl of water." Then she engages her daughter by asking her, "Do you know why we soak them?" These scenes effectively model how adults can introduce children to cooking. The simple, direct style also makes the book equally well suited as a read-aloud and for newly independent readers. The artwork nicely complements the text, as Valiant's warm hues of gold, red, and orange highlight the family's loving relationship. They also capture Cora's feelings through facial expressions. Wide eyes and smiles show the child's joy at cooking with her mother, while a downcast mouth and arched eyebrows illustrate her anxiety that her family won't like her pancit. Although this dish is unique to Cora's culture, children of all backgrounds will share her feelings at being allowed to help cook a meal for the first time. A solid choice for schools and public libraries, especially where family-based programming is popular.--Mary Landrum, Lexington Public Library, KY

More great news: CORA COOKS PANCIT is included in the annual best-of-the-year list of the Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC), called CCBC Choices 2010. Yay! The complete CCBC Choices 2010 publication featuring books published in 2009 will include annotations and recommended ages for all of the books included, as well as an author/title/subject index, and a commentary on the publishing year. It'll be available in March.

Kristi Valiant
www.kristivaliant.com
http://kristivaliant.blogspot.com

A BIG SMILE

2010-02-24T14:03:00.000-08:00

I just opened my copy of Nikki Shoemaker's book written by Rena Jones. Lemur Troops & Critter Groups is a delight.

Nikki's illustrations are vibrant and so inventive. This is a great book for children and quite educational too. Did you know that Armadillos in number are a pack? or that many snails are a walk?

The book is available on Amazon, and what a treat it is!

Sketching

2010-02-24T12:12:00.000-08:00

My family and I has the chance to stop by and visit the Norman Rockwell museum in Stockbridge MA at the beginning of this winter season. Snow had fallen for the first time and it definitely got us all in the holiday mood. The place was filled to capacity with visitors so at some paintings, observation was 20 plus people deep. This forced me to drift off from the crowd and spend most of my time looking at some of Norman's less popular pencil studies and photograph layouts. Yet in reality these efforts are even more interesting to me then his wonderful finished pieces. How an artist comes up with their concept, and then the changes that happen to it until it's finished will always be the most fascinating part of art to me.

Snow ~ the SnowTesters

2010-02-24T06:45:00.001-08:00

Since there are so many kinds of snow it is always great to have someone on hand for quality control.

Picture-Bookies

Now on ETSY!

Hallmark Baby Boy contest win.

Happy Halloween!

USDA Grow it, Try It, Like It Preschool teaching Package

Illustrator Showcase on Sunshine Smile Publications

Gravity and Sun Comic Books - Capstone Press 2011

My Giant Doodlin' Pad - Published by Kidsbooks LLC

Read Every Day. Lead a Better Life

Sharey the Sharefish

New Book Cover

Ruff Construction

Howdy

A hint of things to come...

Become a fan of "Champ's Story" on Facebook!

The Grand Adventure

Character Sketch for Baby Moose Visits

Traveling Art

Ginger Nielson

My New Book

Wishing all a very Happy New Year

Happy Holidays to everyone at Picture Bookies

For the children and the child in all of us...

Flying Poodles Soars~

CHRISTMAS APP BY: POODLE DOG PRODUCTIONS

RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5BUY IT? YESIPHONE / IPOD / IPAD APP: $1.99UNIVERSAL APP: YES

Preview of "Prairie Storms" by Sylvan Dell Publishing

A nice review... and a teaching moment

What came first? The children's book or the calendar?

Shhhh! We're sleeping!

Poster for Little Charley Thornpaws

Artist of the Week on Public Republic - Bulgaria

The newest book... Little Charley Thornpaws is now available

My first ever book signing *:)

Get ready for the FLYING POODLES

Flying Poodles ~ A Christmas Story

The Grand Adventure

My new books have arrived!

Tori Spelling at Park Ave Borders Book for Signing

Fall...

Discussion forum on facebook for the Picture Bookies

Grow It, Try It, Like It finally out

A shiny sticker on my book!

The Proofs have arrived

Please Welcome Korey Scott to the Picture Bookies

Hello Picture Bookies!

"Champ's Story" gets 5-Star review on Amazon.com!

Coming Soon ... drum roll please.... An Interveiw with Kate *:)

Comment moderation for our visitors

Project in the Works...

Up, Up and Away

Back When We Were New

Your Stand-out Moment

Sneak Peek to my next book!

In My Bath, and Author interview

Look what I got!

Vanessa Brantley Newton ~ An Interview

Nikki Boetger Illustrator

Mark Hicks Author/Illustrator

THe INTERVIEW SERIES

Strange Pets

New Books for 2010...

Coloring Contest!

The Website Revamped!

The world of technology gets more interesting each day.

If Wishes Were Fishes

Time to Clean Your Room!

Shifting Gears

2 new books - Dancing Dreams & Oliver's First Christmas

Also Coming Soon... If Wishes Were Fishes

Coming Soon.... to a bookshelf near you...

Coming Soon ~ In My Bath ~

Little Piggy...

Traveling Sketchbook

FAREWELL, TROWBRIDGE?

Auntie Mabel Coming to a store near You

Something Nice Happened

Daisy Chain

My 25th

Simple isn't so simple.

RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5
BUY IT? YES
IPHONE / IPOD / IPAD APP: $1.99
UNIVERSAL APP: YES