February 26, 2019

Conclusions aren’t endings

When I ask myself, does this story have a conclusion, what I’m asking is, have I encouraged the reader to decide something? To form an opinion. That’s very different to ‘have I ended this story’.

February 19, 2019

Book editors do much more than ‘edit’

When you see the word ‘edit’ it evokes small-scale changes like typos, corrections, and grammar. But editors are invaluable to better storytelling.

January 27, 2019

The importance of drawing from life

As a storyteller, it’s my job to build believable stories. This means believable characters and believable worlds. What makes something believable? It’s the details. Details need to be grounded in some form of reality, so us lowly humans instinctively know the rules and have a way to connect with the people and places in them.… Continue reading The importance of drawing from life

January 22, 2019

Better visual storytelling through the seven word and picture combinations

One of the most fun parts of illustrating picture books is the early stage; the one where a publisher has contacted me because they think I’d be the right fit for a text they’ve just acquired. Reading a new, unpublished text, is a thrill. There’s something so energising about the potential that lives within a… Continue reading Better visual storytelling through the seven word and picture combinations

January 8, 2019

Letting the line breathe

As anyone who has a regular art practice knows, learning from those gone before you is as critical as the amount of time you spend drawing. So, when the Australian Society of Authors advertised an online workshop with Australian picture book legend, Ann James, I jumped at the chance. I never go into these webinars… Continue reading Letting the line breathe

December 30, 2018

The importance of finishing things (even if you think they’re terrible)

I’m a serial project starter. I come up with ideas that always feel like the best idea I’ve ever had. I’m motivated and excited by what this thing could be. It’s energising and all-consuming. Then, I start the work. Austin Kleon’s ‘Life of a Project’ from “Steal like an Artist” Soon enough, the initial burst… Continue reading The importance of finishing things (even if you think they’re terrible)