Creative Cup Illustrators Group

New info for a new year!

2012-02-01T11:13:00.000-08:00

Hi Guys,

I found these links a couple of weeks ago and found them really informative-- especially the parts regarding website structure and how to get going creatively... they are a couple of years old, but hopefully still as helpful to all of you as they have been to me!-- (working on that website!...)

http://www.n8w.com/wp/552

http://www.n8w.com/wp/1937

Enjoy!

-Randi

Christmas Card 2011- Let Your Heart Be Light!

2011-12-19T11:37:00.000-08:00

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Let Your Heart Be Light!

Awesome Illustrator!

2011-12-03T11:18:00.000-08:00

Cover: The Garden of Abdul Gasazi
by Chris Van Allsburg

Insert: The Garden of Abdul Gasazi
by Chris Van Allsburg

Just read this book to my girls and love-love-LOVED the illustrations. So detailed and crisp...looks like pencil, so it's all black and white. A very talented artist, indeed. I've not read anything else by Chris Van Allsburg, although most are familiar with or have at least heard of his Caldecott winners, Jumanji and The Polar Express.

This story, The Garden of Abdul Gasazi, is good but what really held my interest were his spectacular illustrations. Chris Van Allsburg won a Caldecott Honor for this book.

Revisiting the Birds

2011-12-02T14:53:00.001-08:00

"Feeling left out."

I took the advice I received and dulled the white birdhouses so they didn't compete for attention with the birds. I also added some shimmering red berries to the tree and bush in the opposite corners, hoping to counter the strong diagonal line between the two birds.

I scanned the image in two passes and in Photoshop stuck them back together. I hope this helps show the true color palette.

I'm busy working on illustration #3. I have layered the background with letters from my grandmother and am waiting for it to dry. I'm having lots of fun with this! I've saved piles of letters over the years and it's nice to pull them out and turn them into art materials.

The Scowling Mermaid

2011-12-02T10:53:00.000-08:00

"It meant so much."

Another traditional collage piece fresh from the studio. The scowling mermaid is meant to hang in my bathroom so I wanted a quote that was about water...but when I came across an old greeting card in my memorabilia stash, the words "It meant so much" printed on the inside really spoke to me.

Thoughts, critique? Would love to hear it as I move forward in my exploratory phase.

Inspired by Memorabilia

2011-11-30T18:59:00.000-08:00

Two Birds

I wanted to get back to my traditional collage roots for a time and get my hands dirty. I was inspired by the artist, Cindy Wunsch, with her use of memorabilia as a background for her images. I really like her easy folk-like style, which is personally hard for me to accomplish. When I work traditionally, I'm in a constant state of fear. When I finally do find the courage to break through one obstacle, I'm afraid to ruin my piece at the next turn.

Cindy is featured in the latest Cloth Paper Scissors magazine and mentions in her article that she had a hard time starting an image. That blank canvas does have a way of stymieing creative progress! Her solution is to lay down her base with memorabilia, then paint on top of that letting key words stand out...which then starts the story rolling.

I decided to try her method and really enjoyed seeing sentimental items that had been stored for many years, make an appearance in the light of day! I played with this image and am happy with it's direction, although it feels incomplete to me.

Any ideas or thoughts would be helpful to help push me past another obstacle to the finish line. I'd like to hear it all, even though it's glued down and pretty concrete...I have more memorabilia crying to be used :)

Thanks!

2012 Tomie dePaola Award Challenge

2011-10-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

Suzanne Del Rizzo just brought to my attention that SCBWI has another challenge coming up...an illustration depicting the text below is due December 15 by email. For more information, check out the guidelines.

So they went along and went along until they met Turkey Lurkey
“Good morning, Goosey Loosey, Ducky Daddles, Cocky Locky, Henny Penny, and Chicken Licken,” said Turkey Lurkey, “where are you going?”
“Oh, Turkey Lurkey, the sky is falling and we are going to tell the King!”
“How do you know the sky is falling?” asked Turkey Lurkey.
“Ducky Daddles told me,” said Goosey Loosey.
“Cocky Locky told me,” said Ducky Daddles.
“Henny Penny told me,” said Cocky Locky.
“Chicken Licken told me,” said Henny Penny
“I saw it with my own eyes, I heard it with my own ears,
and a piece of it fell on my tail!” said Chicken Licken.
“Then I will go with you,” said Turkey Lurkey, “and we will tell the King!”
~ P.C. Asbjörnsen

Shelf Worthy Book

2011-10-12T10:13:00.000-07:00

I read several picture books from our library pile to my daughters last night. The first one I read I loved right off the bat and am now thinking of ordering it for our shelf. It was called Brontorina by James Howe; illustrated by Randy Cecil.

Why was it so good? The "voice" of the book was spot on and fun for me to read out loud. Merging dinosaurs and ballet is pure genius (both are favorite topics for the 4 year old set), the ending was a nice surprise, and the illustrations were beautifully done and integrated with the story quite well. The girls and I loved it!

Brontorina
By James Howe

My New Favorite

2011-10-10T10:56:00.000-07:00

Who Hoo Are You?
by Kate Endle

What Is Green?
by Kate Endle

I took my friend to Cafe Flora in Madison Park last Friday and loved the artwork that was on exhibit. I wrote down the illustrators website so I could see more and discovered that she is a children's book author and illustrator. I have read these two books and find her illustrative style very refreshing.

I have a soft spot for collage and I love her use of Japanese styled paper. She keeps things simple so that her shapes and patterns are the focus. Beautiful work! I'm inspired.

If you'd like to check out more of Kate Endle's work she has a website and a shop at Etsy.

Illustration Station

2011-09-03T17:36:00.000-07:00

Hi guys!

I've just started up a new blog which collates worldwide opportunities for illustrators, whether it be a paying job, a casual art swap, a contest, a giveaway, or just plain networking.

http://illustration-station.blogspot.com/

Let me know what you think and please help spread the word!

Cheers
Kim

What's in Your Closet?

2011-06-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Closetfound

I just posted my favorite illustrator this week, Sergio Ruzzier, who was also my inspiration for this week's character challenge: "Closetfound." I wanted to mimic Ruzzier's doodling style so I just let my pencil do the walking without too much worry of proper and perfect getting in the way.

This is Tayisha's closet monster...he's patiently waiting for her to return from her bug catching expedition.

It felt good to let my pencil tell the story...I just stepped back. A good exercise for me as I always want a polished piece to show.

New Favorite this Week

2011-06-23T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hey Rabbit!
by Sergio Ruzzier

I just read this book to my kids and LOVED the illustrations. Mr. Ruzzier's artwork looks so effortless. Just by studying the lines and details, I can tell this author/illustrator loves to doodle and draw. I'm always envious of artists that can keep it simple and make simple look so appealing.

Check out his pen and ink here at www.ruzzier.com

Love this Illustrator!

2011-05-13T17:32:00.000-07:00

Whenever I come across 3D artists that remind me of our very own Creative Cupper, Suzanne Del Rizzo, I feel compelled to share. I just checked out Busy Little Mouse by Eugenie Fernandes, a sweet little read teaching youngsters the sounds of animals. The story isn't particularly memborable but the illustrator, Kim Fernandes, is. Very sophisticated use of polymer clay...great textures and colors.

Suzanne, are you familiar with her? If not, she's worth checking out :)

Busy Little Mouse
by Eugenie Fernandes, Illustrated by Kim Fernandes

Happy Mother's Day :)

2011-05-08T08:52:00.000-07:00

How We Met (Song by Greg Dember, Art by Holly DeWolf) Revised

2011-04-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

In 2010 I was hired to provide illustrations for a music video for Seattle musician, Greg Dember. Greg asked for a series of visuals to go along with one of his songs "How We Met" from his new album "Water Makes Waves" released early this year. In total I created 42 illustrations to float along to his song.

The video appears charmingly casual in its simplicity and theme of a man and a bird. However, as the video drifts slowly along it doesn't seem so simple- it displays symbols, moments of transition, thought, emotion, moments of change with deep feeling.

The illustrations are a mix of casual, to more detail in some with moments of different styles of work to different moods and colour for the main instrumental. It was a nice refresher to play around with different ways of working, different colour choices and layout. I think the story board and the instrumental too the longest to do but it was well worth it in the end. I tried to approach it with a creative free spirited outlook in hopes it would seep into my daily life and worldly changes. I'm happy to say it did. Waiting for it to be done and launched on youtube was like waiting for Christmas as a kid! It's truly a great feeling!

I loved working on this little gem for 5 reasons:

• It was a new way of working and a creative breath of fresh air.

• Greg was an awesome open minded client who was open to many creative approaches.

• This is a great promotion piece for both Greg and I.

• It helped me get back into my work again after a long break.

• It was a great distraction along with creative freedom to aid me into my new life.

In many ways I could relate to many aspects to the song and the visuals. 2010 was a big year for many transitions along with many life changes. At the time I was on a somewhat creative sabbatical. This project helped me deal with things on a more creative level in an inspiring way. Now that it is complete I feel I have a new outlook on my work and my career.

I do hope you like it as much as I enjoyed working on it.

The song comes from Greg's new album "Water Makes Waves" and you can learn more about Greg's music at: http://www.gregdembermusic.com

Please support Greg and his music and play the video often! :)

Xylophones & Zebras!

2011-04-19T12:49:00.000-07:00

Part of my illustrated narrative series.

A Golden Kite Award Winner

2011-04-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. I wanted to share my latest discovery, an illustrator that recently won SCBWI's Golden Kite Award. Her name is Salley Mavor and her medium is sculpting with textiles and found objects. Her art is spectacular!

From a distance, I thought her artwork was clay sculpting, which made me think of our own member's work, Suzanne Del Rizzo.

Pocket Full of Posies
by Salley Mavor

She has a long list of published books, her latest being Pocket Full of Posies. I've not read it or any of her works, but her illustrations are amazing and inspiring.

SCBWI homework

2011-03-28T04:12:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all your help on this one, here is the final piece!

Great Read, Great Illustrations

2011-03-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

The Circus Ship
By Chris Van Dusen

I was at Half Price Books the other day and saw Chris Van Dusen's book on the shelf. I'd read it before from the library, and wanted it for my home collection. The story is inspired by an actual event and written in verse.

I read it again last night to my kids, and took particular notice of the wonderful perspective driven illustrations. I've been working very hard at figuring out top-down perspective with the added flavor of foreshortening. Not so easy! I really admire and appreciate Van Dusen's work.

Not only is the story awesome and the illustrations inspiring, but through out the story it's fun to find the animals. He's good at hiding them within his pages.

Perspective!
The Circus Ship By Chris Van Dusen

For Japan

2011-03-15T22:26:00.000-07:00

I almost can't quite come to terms with what is happening in Japan.

This is a piece I did to donate to Illustrators Australia's auction with 100% of money going to Japan. (the kanji characters in the right hand corner say 'for Japan'. I hope I got that right!)

Other ways to help out:

Art for Japan

comment at Karen Andrews' blog to up her donation

buy one of Alicia's prints

buy one of Kathy Hare's prints

It feels good to at least be doing something.

My version

2011-02-22T01:50:00.000-08:00

look forward to seeing yours Karen! :-)

Latest Fable

2011-02-21T16:19:00.000-08:00

Here is my "Princess and the Pea" illustration. I am on a roll.

Newest idea

2011-02-10T05:28:00.000-08:00

I just finished my newest fable design. I might tweak it a little but other wise it is done.

Favorite Children's Book Illustrator

2011-02-09T18:29:00.000-08:00

Raising Sweetness (Picture courtesy Amazon.com)
Illustrator: G. Brian Karas, Author: Diane Stanley

I found another goody to share, illustrator G. Brian Karas. I love his sketchy look combined with photographic elements. He really captures depth, texture, and a sense of fun. I read Muncha, Muncha, Muncha...and added it to my favorite book list...and have just recently read to my kids, Saving Sweetness. Loved both of those books. I checked out Raising Sweetness and is in our "to read" pile.

If you'd like to read more about him, check out Embracing the Child's interview with him.

Happy Chinese New Year

2011-02-04T15:35:00.000-08:00

Creative Fire Bunny-All The creative best to you this year. -Holly

Out with the Old and In with the New

2011-02-04T15:24:00.000-08:00

Creative Cup has been given a fresh new look, starting 2011 on the right foot. Members, please check your links, name spelling, and keep an eye peeled for any changes or alterations that need to take place.

Enjoy the new 'Cup!

Out with the Old

Chicken for IF

2011-01-20T17:56:00.000-08:00

IFriday was "Chicken'. Oddly enough the last three weeks of my illustration work has mostly had a chicken somewhere or t'other in the image. This is from the book I am at work on. Comments welcome. That weird thing iis an albino guinea pig ...

Ain't No Chicken!

2011-01-20T13:52:00.000-08:00

Owl at Home
Digital Collage

I just finished this paper collage turned digital collage today. FINALLY! It's been sitting on my desk for months...and piece by painful piece, it has clicked together like a puzzle to tell Owl's story.

Too bad Illustration Friday's theme this week is "chicken." I'd've really liked to give owl the debut he deserves. Alas, he is alone.

If you'd like to see the scans of the original paper collage...they're at Espial Design.

I've Been Busy Doing XYZ

2011-01-16T15:10:00.000-08:00

Hi group! Just checking in to let you know I have NOT been illustrating lately. I have been working on my children's book manuscript and am very excited after getting feedback from SCBWI's Great Critique here in Seattle.

The large group of participants paired off into small groups of seven. We were assigned a leader who is experienced in writing and being published. She also teaches children's lit at a local higher level school, and spent 7 years volunteering her time with SCBWI's local chapter. I received very positive feedback and practically skipped home on a very high note!

I've tightened up the manuscript even more and I'm very pleased with the outcome. I'll be true to my resolution this year, and get that baby mailed out! First stop, is to apply for one of SCBWI's grants.

There are many and I think anyone who is a member AND is an illustrator and/or writer, should look into these. There are quite a few grants to look at...check out the information here: SCBWI Grants Information

Year of the Rabbit

2011-01-13T00:02:00.000-08:00

Hi guys,

here is a piece I did for the Year of the Rabbit, because I am a rabbit!

would love to hear your feedback.

Cheers

I wanted to Share my great news!! And wish you all A very Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T05:33:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
I wanted to share my amazing news!! I just found out I won 2nd place in the Toronto Star's Emerging Artist Contest! I'm so super excited! If you get a chance, my illustration is in todays's Toronto Star(Dec 24th). And on their Toronto Star online gallery, just scroll down to "cover art contest top 10". And I would love your crit./feedback as always.
I want to thank you guys for all the great critiques and suggestions over the past year. Being part of this critique group has really helped me grow as an artist,. Thanks guys!
I posted about the contest over on my blog.

I also want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! I look forward to seeing more amazing artwork from all of you in the new year!!

Merry Chrissie from me too :)

2010-12-23T20:14:00.000-08:00

Have A Cool Yule & A Happy New Year!

2010-12-21T14:47:00.001-08:00

All the creative best in 2011. Cheers!

Favorite Artist

2010-12-09T09:21:00.000-08:00

Splish Splash! A Touch and Hear Book
Amy Shimler, Illustrator

I thought I'd pull my head above water, and make a post about my favorite artist for the month of December. For all of you that entered an illustration for the They Draw and Cook contest, I'm sure Amy Schimler is a name you are now familiar with, as her recipe drawing is a favorite for today on the FN Dish blog.

Her style portrays the perfect marriage of painting and paper collage that I like so much. She is a reminder to me that keeping things simple can be the best answer.

Andrew had sent an email about each of us taking a turn at offering up a challenge, sharing how we work, sharing links we've discovered, sharing favorite artists, as well as other pertinent information. There is no schedule for this, so just jump in when you see or read something that you think we all may enjoy.

Happy Holidays!

OK, got it working

2010-12-02T06:06:00.000-08:00

HI everyone;

OK, I see why I wasn't able to post on this. I have two different accounts for the blogger. Strange but I am unsure how to make them all go under one email. Anywho, here was my latest fall design that I did for Thanksgiving. It was used for Watercolor Wed.

They Draw and Cook Contest EntryIllustration Friday: Savour

2010-11-30T22:03:00.000-08:00

Flip Flop's Savory Flapjacks

Here is my last minute entry for the They Draw and Cook Contest. I just started it this afternoon...and of course, it took me a lot longer than I wanted. But I did get it in just under the wire. I think.

My email wouldn't let me attach the big Photoshop file, so I only sent them a .jpg. It doesn't say if this is acceptable under the contest rules...but since I only allowed myself 5 minutes to figure all this out before the cut off time, I'll take my lumps gracefully :)

Critique always welcomed!

IF illustration for 'Savour'

2010-11-29T12:14:00.000-08:00

Illustration for 'It's Time For Holi' This is an Indian festival of colors. The family in this story are Indo-american. I'd never heard of this festival until I was given this book to illustrate.

They Draw and Cook recipe

2010-11-28T18:56:00.000-08:00

Hi guys,

Here's my submission for They Draw And Cook's holiday recipe contest. I also submitted it for Illustration Friday's "Savour" this week. 2 birds, one illustration!

Hope you like the illustration, and the recipe! :)

Sneaky for IF

2010-11-25T13:08:00.000-08:00

My computer is going to the doctor's for a while so see you when it's back. This was one of a series for IF Sneaky. Thanks for looking.

My submission for They Draw & Cook Holiday Recipe Contest

2010-11-25T11:24:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

Here is my submission for the Holiday Recipe Contest over on They Draw & Cook. It is a recipe for a Egg-free, Nut-free (and milk-free) Christmas Tree cupcake "cake". I actually made 2 a few years ago for my boys' class parties. I did a little post about it over on my blog, if you're interested in seeing a picture of the actual cake. I can't wait to see the other submissions and get some yummy baking ideas for this year's Christmas treats.

Just wanted to share it with you guys! Now my stomach is rumbling....:)

They Draw And Cook Contest

2010-11-22T09:23:00.000-08:00

H Guys,
I just wanted to pass along a fun contest over at They Draw and Cook, that is currently accepting entries. It is a festive Christmas illustrated recipe contest where the winners could not only win some cash, but also have their illustrated recipe featured on the Food Network's FN Dish blog! How is that for some free promotion!! Best of luck!

Another of My Favorite Illustrators

2010-11-02T11:35:00.000-07:00

Illustrator and Author, Alison Jay

I wanted to share another name with you, a name of one of my favorite childrens book illustrators. Her name is Alison Jay. She has many books under her belt, such as:

Welcome to the Zoo
If Kisses Were Colors
Picture This...
ABC Alphabet
123: A Child's First Counting Book
and many others!

She is the master of hidden images and hidden story threads throughout her pages. Her style is unique and consistent...and beautiful.

If you haven't read one of her books then I highly recommend you do! I've read the ones listed above, and each one has surprises worth finding. Enjoy!

Halloween card 2010- Abby Normal!

2010-10-27T16:01:00.001-07:00

This year I decided to pay tribute to one of my favourite Halloween movies, Young Frankenstein directed by Mel Brooks. The 'Abby normal' scene cracks me up every time. The full scene quotes goes like this:

Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: [to Igor] Now that brain that you gave me. Was it Hans Delbruck's?
Igor: [pause, then] No.
Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: Ah! Very good. Would you mind telling me whose brain I DID put in?
Igor: Then you won't be angry?
Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: I will NOT be angry.
Igor: Abby Someone.
Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: [pause, then] Abby Someone. Abby who?
Igor: Abby Normal.
Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: [pause, then] Abby Normal?
Igor: I'm almost sure that was the name.
Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: [chuckles, then] Are you saying that I put an abnormal brain into a seven and a half foot long, fifty-four inch wide GORILLA?
[grabs Igor and starts throttling him]
Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: Is that what you're telling me?

Have an Abby Normal Halloween folks!

* Nice to be back at Creative Cup!

Cup illustration

2010-10-27T05:35:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, here is my cup illustration. I dropped the image, an acrylic painting, into Illustrator and fooled around a bit. Kind of Alice in Wonderlandish.

My Favorite Halloween Book for Kids

2010-10-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

I'm Not Afraid of This Haunted House

I pulled a Halloween goody off our book shelf last week to read to my kids and thought I'd make mention of it here. It's a great read, with rhyming verses that are fun to read. It's very catchy! The book is called "I'm Not Afraid of This Haunted House" by Laurie Friedman and illustrated by Teresa Murfin.

It's a five star in my book!

I read so many library books to my kids...that I couldn't help myself from starting my own book list. So far, my list is up to 15 picture books. If you're interested, check out my list at the Lazy Lemur Review.

Revised "Cup" of Yummy Acorns

2010-10-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone. Thanks for all of the great feedback. I made a few changes and think it is working much better now. As you can see, I changed the face of the little chipmunk, darkened his claws so they didn't blend into the rope as much, and added the tail to Mr. Mouse(opps). As always, I'd love to hear what you guys think now!

Kim's lil creative cup

2010-10-26T05:25:00.000-07:00

Hi All, here is my version of the cup!

I had to really restrain myself from using red in this. I really gravitate toward a bluey palette with red for contrast. Feedback welcome!

Oh and hey, just to let you know I am having giveaway madness over at my blog for my new book which will be officially launched next weekend. I'd love it if you would visit!

Illustration Friday: Spooky and Racing

2010-10-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

Invasion of the Aggressive Hobos

I started this image last week for Illustration Friday's theme, Spooky, then puttered with it, changed it and finally, finished it this week. It also seemed to fit the bill for IF's latest theme, racing.

As always, any critique is welcomed!

"Cup" of Yummy Acorns

2010-10-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

Here is my interpretation of the theme "cup", for this month's challenge. I guess I'm feeling like the animals getting ready for the winter, by wanting to get all snuggled up at home and hibernate with comfy things. I thought it would be fun to make an illustration depicting two little furry friends hauling there big acorn collection to their home using their creative wagon contraption. I had a great time coming up with things to use for the wagon, like the sardine can, antique tea cup, and Tinkertoy wheels. OK I hope I didn't date myself too much there, does everyone even remember Tinkertoys?? Any thoughts or comments would be great!

Newest illustration

2010-10-23T13:48:00.000-07:00

This is the latest piece I have been working on and off on, for the last few weeks. I am working on a series for promotional mailers. I have been slack and haven't sent any out since last Christmas :o! I would love to know what you think. Andrew has already given me a few pointers on this one and if you'd like to see the before image or the process images they are on my blog, I hated to post too many images here. Anyway, I was planning to do a 10 second sound module for these, with a segment from "Entrance of the Gladiators" but I am having problems with the sound modules. So that is looking like an expensive mistake. It's kind of an iffy plan anyway. The thought was to get someones attention since they usually get soooooooo many mailers. But it is a little gimmicky, so maybe it's for the best that they aren't working properly. The last one I did was a Christmas card and handmade envelope that had a related illustration on the inside of the envelope.

So, I'm thinking that the card will open up from the center like the lower image, but this is just a rough idea, I haven't completely decided about the rest of it yet. The posters will be more poster like but the two on the left are images I plan to use. for the posters, the one on the right is going to be a strong man that I am working on. ...and of course the tent will be colored in :)

Homage To Forrest Illustrations

2010-10-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

Hello, Chris' great cup illustration made me realize the importance of tongues. Thanks Chris! I know mine are a bit odd. :) But the kids looked pretty rough without them actually :) It was part of my images for spooky. When I am tired I make up new characters and put them in the puppet box. Which is why these one's exist. They are waiting for their chance to be in an image.

Creative Cup Challenge: "Cup"

2010-10-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

Living on the Edge

These two little fish were part of my overworked image in "Warming Up" that I edited out. They were so cute that I wanted to be sure they had an illustration all their own. So I thought, what better use for them, than putting them in the "Cup" challenge.

They started off playful...then turned into thrill-seekers. Swimming in coffee, out of their safe aquatic tank, and living on the edge, baby. I wanted to include a cat under the table...but thought better of it. Better for me to keep it simple.

Critique is always welcomed!

Spooky: Illustration Friday

2010-10-17T00:23:00.000-07:00

Following in the tradition of fireside yarns. After George Cruikshanks and others who illustrated Mother Goose tales. There'll be plenty of varitions on my blog when I get a chance to post them :) Thanks for looking - will try and make it a habit to post the IF here..

Cup Theme

2010-10-14T12:04:00.001-07:00

Cup (and Saucer) for our first theme :)

2010-10-11T00:41:00.000-07:00

Our First Illustration Challenge!

2010-10-07T15:48:00.000-07:00

How exciting!

Okay, Members, the challenge for this month is to illustrate your interpretation of "Cup." Keeping in mind, that this may be used in our new banner and that we, as a group, are focusing on the childrens illustration market.

Have fun!

Worked, Reworked, Over Worked!

2010-09-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

Just Warming Up (version 4)

Okay - I changed the water so it wasn't so sinusoidal (my new favorite word!) alleviating some tension with my vertical circus tent stripes.

Also, hearing that all the elements felt too busy made me see that the house and the bright colors were competing with the acrobat for attention. Sooooo, I made the house smaller, the acrobat bigger, and dimmed the background a bit to push it where it belonged...in the background!

Now, how do you feel? Would love another round of critiques...any comments could be helpful.

I want to call it quits (so tired of looking at you, pink skirted acrobat)...but this is really helping me dust out those mental cobwebs.

Thanks a bunch.

Warming Up

2010-09-22T22:03:00.000-07:00

Warming Up

Here's my latest illustration, inspired by Illustration Friday's theme this week, acrobat. It pretty much portrays my state of mind this week... warming up, brushing the dust off, and taking a leap.

I've had a real hard time keeping it simple. I actually took out some elements because it was too busy and started a second image! I'm getting mentally fried so thought I'd ask for a critique before I add the shadow and highlight detail.

Thoughts? Comments?

Thanks!

Sharing

2010-09-20T22:48:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

With my new found freedom (yeah preschool!), I've been working on a new image for Illustration Friday's theme this week, acrobat. My goal was to get it started and finished within my 2.5 hour time slot to brush the dust off...but as it turns out, I've turned it into a project and it is half way there.

*sigh*

Keep it simple? Not me.

So, while I work at my illo...I thought I'd share an artist that I recently discovered. I saw her latest childrens book at Powell's Bookstore while on vacation in Portland. Check out her artwork here: Pamela Zagarenski. I really admire her whimsical style.

Polar Bear

2010-09-14T02:52:00.000-07:00

Hi all, thanks for your help on this one -- here's how it turned out. I decided to pull it back a bit from the original, but not too much!

I've also submitted it for Illustration Friday: proverb : "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step"

Hello I asked some questions in the private section..... any thoughts welcome

2010-08-18T22:50:00.000-07:00

This is the style that I am planning on using. Without the smart car. (This is a mock up ad for Outsmart).

This next ones are tamer than I intend

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Thanks in advance.

Picnic Ants finished version

2010-07-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

I hope it's the finished version anyway... So what do you think? Does pickle ant fix the remaining issues? I do appreciate all of your help guys, thanks, I know you are tired of looking at this one. I promise to move on to something new, if everyone thinks this one is good to go.

Revised Picnic

2010-07-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

Ok, I wanted to go ahead and get this done before I had to start working on a new project, so I worked on it late last night and most of the day today. I appreciate all of your input. Let me know what you think about the changes and whether or not it needs more work. I think it is better. I am sure I will see something I missed tomorrow, but I am giving it up for tonight. Thanks!

and here it is with the watermelon darkened. Does this solve the problem of the ant carrying the watermelon not being easy to read. I can't tell because I know what he is supposed to be doing...

Picnic piece for portfolio needs a critique

2010-07-09T13:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, I appreciated the last critique. I still have not been able to get that one the way I would like, so I have set it aside for now. I am planning on adding this to my portfolio, so any thoughts on this one would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Jack Escaping with the bag of gold.

2010-07-06T01:30:00.000-07:00

Another variation on "Giant". Crits welcome. :) I'm working on a series of old fashioned fairy tales. Having fun.

IF: Giant

2010-07-03T16:52:00.000-07:00

Well this is a story of a little witch named Lynx who stumbles upon a bewitched giant locked in a glass jar in some old ruins in the middle of the forest. Thanks for any comments :)

IF Satellite

2010-06-29T20:50:00.000-07:00

This is one of a series I did showing a young boy's dream about rescuing the dog Laika from Sputnik 2. The dog Laika was the first large animal in space. It died within hours of being sent up. The image is for IF's satellite. I tried to make the boy more child friendly after the last kind crits. Thanks for any comments.

Thanks for the suggestions :)

2010-06-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I took in all of your great suggestions and after some tinkering and the addition of a few new characters.... this is the final illustration. I really think the composition and balance is greatly improved by the changes- thanks guys!

Now I can get back to working on more portfolio pieces!!

Opinions please!

2010-06-25T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Thanks so much for the great feedback with the plasticine illustration for my son #1's teacher. Below is the finished illo.

Now I am in the home stretch with the last illo almost complete for son#2's grade 1 teacher. With this illo I have decided to do Canadian animals, as this teacher looooves polar bears and moose.

I would love some suggestions here on animal choice and placement.

I want to add one more animal for balance, but I can't decide between a blue heron or a chipmunk. My thoughts were if I go with the heron I would have it standing tall on the far right on top of the "M" in classroom (sorry, just realized it got cut off in my photo), that would balance with the height of the moose on the left, but it might crowd the baby polar bear. Or maybe the chipmunk could go there standing on the "M", either climbing down the front/side of it, or perching up to see what the polar bear is doing with one paw on the "S"or... I could put it in the foreground in front of the "L" or something. I am leaning towards the chipmunk as I think a smaller animal would be better...but I am open to any suggestions !! :)

New Person in Paisley

2010-06-21T00:42:00.000-07:00

Hello, Andrew Finnie here. Thanks very much for letting me join the group. I followed Karen (stalker I am) whose (who's?) work I admire immensely - and when I saw the quality of the other work here I asked to join.

I do illustrations similar to the above image. My work is three d derived then photoshopped. With photoshop elements I aim to bash the CG image into something that looks more traditional. Sometimes I succceed, most often I fail.

My ultimate aim is to make a few books for intelligent kids. Almost graphic novels but not quite. I admire Cloudchaser kind of work - though the writing in the first volume at least is dribbling balderdash that might have been lifted from a third rate Cornflakes Pack, I would like to emulate the style of illustrations.

I also admire Shaun tan's work, The Arrival. - how he tells a complicated emotive story purely with the use of pencilled images.

Anyways, the aim of the above image is to illustrate the idea 'pailsey' - purely by the way of integrating the paisley design into a few elements of the image.

Any comments welcome.

I'm looking forward to this group being energetic and thoughtful and helpful. I believe what you get out of something is the equivalent of what you put into it.

By the way, I can't spell :)

What do you guys think???

2010-06-16T07:38:00.000-07:00

This plasticine illo. is an end of year teacher gift I am working on for son#3's kindergarten teacher. I would love everyones feedback on it. It isn't the best photo, but can you see how each mouse has a different expression/mood?

This next illo is for son#1's grade 3 teacher. It isn't finished yet, but I wanted your opinion on the rainforest animal theme. I thought it would be fitting, because these animals are unique, exotic and have a cool factor (which is very important when in grade 3-wink). I was thinking of adding a lion, and snake, or maybe a sloth...if you guys can think of any other cool rainforest animal I'd love some suggestions!! Now I've got to get movin' and finish this up, because I have one more to do for son#2's grade 1 teacher...

Rippling...

2010-06-16T02:43:00.001-07:00

Here is my contribution to Kelly Light's Ripple blog. Comments appreciated!

15 Steps to Freelance Illustration Ebook- 50% off

2010-06-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
I don't know if you are a fan of the Escape from Illustration Island site, but today you should definitely swing over and check it out!! For today only, the creator Thomas James is offering his new ebook 15 Steps to Freelance Illustration for 50% off, so it can be yours for only $10!!! What a deal! I just purchased it myself and I can't wait to check it out. Just wanted to pass along the info. :)

Critique please

2010-06-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hi, could you guys let me know what you think about this piece? I like it, I just don't love it, but I'm not sure why. Thanks in advance!

On a Roll!

2010-06-10T23:36:00.000-07:00

Cleanup at the Gulf

I worked on another illo referencing the oil spill...with a more hopeful and positive spin. I'd like to include this one in my porfolio so a critique would be awesome!

Thanks!

The Ripple Effect

2010-06-09T22:30:00.000-07:00

Engulfed

I checked out Kelly Light's blog, called Ripple, as suggested by Creative Cup's Suzanne Del Rizzo. Kelly is creating awareness for the oil spill in the Gulf, a very worthy cause.

Exploring Expressions

2010-06-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

Expressions 1

I am working on ranges of expressions to practice capturing the subtle nuances of the face. I'd like to include more illustrations with children in a variety of settings to my portfolio.

Expressions 2

I'm having some problems and am hoping for some help. I want to show racial diversity in my work...how does the skin look on the one that has the shadow/highlights applied, called "horror"?

Also, I'm having a real hard time with "hilarity"...the mouth? eyes? I'm not sure what I'm missing here but it doesn't look like laughter to me, or, in the very least, a sincere laughter.

Advice?

The Ripple effect!!

2010-06-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I wanted to let you know about this fantastic blog I came across called Ripple. It was created by Kelly Light, another great Children's Book Illustrator. She came up with the most creative way to help raise funds for the animals that have been effected by the Gulf oil spill disaster. Illustrators from around the world donate small artcards that may be purchased with the donation of $10 to a variety of animal rescue organizations. Brilliant or what??!!

I designed this pelican illustration for her site.

It is a great way to be proactive and feel a little less helpless.

As Kelly so eloquently states on her blog,"our small actions together will ripple outward".

I hope you will pop over to her site and take a look!! :)

And please pass it on!

Need a critique...

2010-06-02T10:33:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone, I need a critique...first illustration is acrylic on illustration board. The second is acrylic on canvas. I can't decide. What do you think?

Hellloooo!

2010-05-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

Hi! My name is Suzanne Del Rizzo. I have been a fan of the Creative Cup Illustrators Group for quite a while now. So when I read the latest post that asked for interested illustrators to send in a comment if they'd like to be considered for membership, I jumped at this great opportunity. I have wanted to join a critique group for quite some time, but I'd been unsuccessful finding any similiar groups online that were just starting up, or accepting new members. I want to thank Stacia for the invite!! I am really excited to be part of the Creative Cup group, and I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone and share artwork ideas and feedback- this is so exciting!!!

About me....well, this illustration career is a new one for me. I used to be a Medical Science Laboratory Research Technician/Assistant at a Cancer Research lab in the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute in Toronto. Yes, I know, quite the mouthful and completely unrelated to children's book illustration. Well, throughout high school I was torn between following a career in science or pursuing my passion in art. Obviously the science won out, or so I thought. After my maternity leave with the birth of my first child, I became a stay-at-home mom(they grow up sooo fast). And now...4 kiddies later....I have come to realize that nothing is sweeter then seeing my kids learn to read and the enjoyment they get out of books. It got me thinking....children's book illustration would be a really fun and rewarding job!

I slowly got back into my art again, but wasn't sure what medium to focus on. Until the day I was completely blown away by a book one of my children brought home by Barbara Reid. I had dabbled with polymer clay in the past and loved it, but never considered modelling clay as a medium for illustration. Since that day I have been totally addicted to plasticine illustration.

I have been greatly inspired by the amazing work of Barbara Reid, Kim Fernandes, Susan Eaddy, Jeanette Canyon and many others. I have had a great time researching how to go about becoming an illustrator. I started a blog a few months back to get my art "out there", in the hopes of meeting other artists and gaining valuable feedback. It looks like that one can be ticked of my list with joining this critique group.:)

I'm still working on defining my style, and trying to soak up all the business info. and advice from other seasoned illustrators. I have to say the online community of children's book illustrators have been so kind, friendly and always so giving of ideas and advice. Thanks guys!

Right now I am in the process of putting together a children's book illustration portfolio, and getting a website up and running.
I'm looking forward to all the great things this blog has to offer, and to having some fun creative discussions! :)

Pulse Check

2010-05-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

I am opening up membership again to breath new life into our critique blog. It's time to get serious folks!

I am looking for illustrators that are willing to give honest critiques and to participate actively to nurture a positive community for Creative Cup.

If you are currently a member and would like to be removed, now is the time to let me know. If you are an SCBWI member, or someone interested in the children's book market...please leave a comment! I'm itching to send out some invitations to rekindle Creative Cup's fire.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Illustration Friday: Wilderness

2010-01-19T14:55:00.000-08:00

Squirrels in the Forest

Hello (hello, hello)? If anyone is out there, I'd love a critique on this image as it is one that I'd like to include in my portfolio and eventually submit to SCBWI's Don Freeman Grant next year. This would hopefully fulfill the "one pastoral scene" requirement.

Thanks a bunch!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-22T17:56:00.001-08:00

Wishing you all the best for fun, safe and creative holidays!

Goodbye Sarah

2009-10-12T02:22:00.001-07:00

I am sorry to report that Sarah Tommer has left our Creative Cup blog, due to illness and not being able to illustrate at the moment.

We're sorry to see you go Sarah and hope that you'll be back very soon!!!

All the best to you

..released today

2009-10-01T09:00:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone, big day...my first children's book was released today http://tinyurl.com/ybgk3hs An exciting day for my family and I. Just thought I would share it with you.

New Book News

2009-07-29T01:45:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd announce here some very exciting news! I have just started work on illustrating a book for HarperCollins Australia - a Christmas book that will be out for Xmas 2010. I can't say much about it at this point, but am very excited to be working on it!! I'll be posting as many sketches and thoughts about the process as I can on my blog.

Illustration Friday: Tango

2009-07-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

First Tango

I'm listening to The Tango Lesson, which I can "hear" from my latest illustration, First Tango. Like first love, the dance is intimate yet exhilarating.

Would love some feedback as people are hard to capture in collage.

I'm hearing crickets out there...but I'm not giving up! Yoo-whoo! Where are you?

Illustration Friday: Drifting

2009-06-19T16:34:00.000-07:00

Ticket to Ride / White Ticket Fence

Just playing around while I wait to hear something/anything from publishers. I mailed off my stuff and am "relaxing" before I hit my next project. How's everyone doing out there?

Hello? Is this thing on?

Staying On Top of Things

2009-04-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

April's Picnic

Thank you, Princess Tomato, for the reminder to stay on top of things! I'm happy to report that since my last post I finished the birthday image (above) and have that off my plate.

I finished perusing my marketing book and found 20 or so publishers that would receive unsolicited manuscripts. I visited their websites to get the latest submission requirements and review the types of books they publish. After the website research my list of publishers dwindled to 12.

I am now in the process of reviewing my images since they are 3 years old already. I'm doing some retouches this week. By early next week, my plan is to have my materials printed and mailed to the chosen twelve!

Once those are "cooking" at the publishers, I will prepare my marketing materials and send illustration samples to other publishing houses. AND while those illustration samples are "cooking", I'll work on my next book idea :)

I'm back, baby! Slow moving...but back.

What are you up to?

2009-04-02T08:25:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone. Thought I would share what I'm up to these days. I'm currently working on a personal image, an illustration for a friend's birthday. I'm almost done and then I'll share it...it's taken me quite some time to get motivated! Whenever I get some free time I just want to relax and regroup for the next toddler marathon!

After I get done with my image, I want to dig into my marketing book. I've written some prose several years ago and, knowing that I won't be able to illustrate all that with my time restraints...want to just send it out as a manuscript. I also have done NOTHING with my ABC book that I keep meaning to send out...and I want to do that too. No distractions this time!

Any advice on sending stuff to publishers? Do I literally need to make a dummy book? Or can I send a couple sheets with the alphabet pics on them?

What's everyone else up to these days?

Hope you're all doing well!

Newish publication

2009-04-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

This is a book about coping with divorce published by Pemmican last summer. I posted the first pic I did for this and used the advise I received on that when painting the rest of the book. I seemed to be on a run of bug books for a while, this is the 4th bug book I've done. Now it's fairy/folk tales which is a nice change. I haven't posted an image on creative cup in a long time and almost forgot how!

2009-02-20T11:37:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! I hope you all are doing well. Here's an illustration that I did for Stories For Children Magazine, titled 'Where's Lizzy?', in the February issue.

Chris Forrest recommended that I join JacketFlap.com, and I really like it (thanks Chris :). I've seen a number of our members there, and was wondering if anyone else in our group was a member, as well?

Some news...

2009-02-12T06:22:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone, it's an exciting day for me...my first book illustrations have been published. The children's book is titled "Jig, Jiggle, Sneeze" by http://www.magicworldmedia.com/ . A big thank you to HildaRose for her advice and direction. What a wonderful gal!

ever heard of these?

2009-02-09T23:10:00.000-08:00

I've recently been approached by both 123Greetings and imagezoo to join their databases. Both look like they are for free, but I am always a bit wary. Has anyone heard of these or have any experience with them?

Yikes! Assignments

2009-02-05T20:24:00.000-08:00

Taking a couple of graduate classes in illustration each term is a wonderful chance to take some big steps in developing a style. But yikes! Assignments up the Wazoo, and I can't even find my Wazoo! Here are a couple of the 5 or 6 due this week. Yikes!

Brushing the Dust Off..

2009-01-29T16:04:00.000-08:00

Itsy Bitsy Spider

Hi everyone, remember me? I'm an illustrator from many moons ago that had twins and fell off the "creative" planet! I'm trying to scrape and crawl my way back...and am feeling a bit rusty. Anyway, can someone please pat me on the back for getting this done? It's for Illustration Friday's theme this week, "climbing."

I bought the latest Children's Writer's & Illustrator's Market book and am intending on reading it...haven't cracked it open yet but that is my plan regardless. I'm going to try to shop around that ABC book I made eons ago...and work on a counting one.

What's everyone else up to? How's biz? How's that creative energy?

Tablet recommendations...

2009-01-07T05:53:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, Happy New Year!....I'm thinking about purchasing a graphic tablet...does anyone use one?....any recommendations on size, brand etc? I need some help.

Here's my newest painting of a weiner dog with a mohawk...her name is Bella.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T04:25:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Creative Cupsters! I hope you have lovely holidays and that 2009 is a fantastic year for all of you xx

Finished paintings

2008-12-09T01:57:00.001-08:00

Here are the finished paintings - thanks for all your help!

Randy Kazandy! Where Are Your Glasses?

2008-12-05T15:00:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I wanted to show the dust jacket for a

book that I posted a while back. It's ready to

roll off the presses in a few weeks.

Very exciting!

Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

Kim S.