Illustrating for Children Isn't Always Easy
Interview With Children's Book Illustrator Kit Grady
Mar 11, 2009
Children's book illustrator Kit Grady has been working with children's publishers for many years. Her lively, colorful artwork is characterized by action and expression. In this interview, Grady discusses her creative process and the pleasures and difficulties that come with bringing a children's story to life.
Meet Kit Grady
Thanks for being a guest at Suite101, Kit. Tell us a little about yourself and how you started illustrating children's books?
I have always enjoyed drawing and expressing myself on paper. I attended Virginia Commonwealth University majoring in art, and later many SCBWI Conferences plus all the writing an illustrating classes I could find. My first book, Jiggsy’s Necklace, which I wrote and illustrated, was published with Windswept House. Later I wrote and illustrated one for Kaeden Books. I have had many types of projects throughout the years and learned so much. (Yet always finding more I need to know) I currently work with Guardian Angel Publishing as one of their illustrators and illustrate for Kicks Publications. I have several projects in the wings. I stay busy which is a good thing.
How would you describe your style?
I strive for a more painterly style even though I use photoshop on the computer to do the art work. I try to keep my illustrations colorful, with lots of expression and action.
What excites you about a picture book manuscript?
I love the process. When I first get a manuscript, I look through it for a great story, good pacing and picture possibilities. When you find these types of manuscripts it really gets you excited. You may have a story you enjoy doing the illustrations and know the pictures will be of the subjects you do well, but if deep down you know the story is not what it should be, it can be a problem. I have been so fortunate to have many good stories to work with. I strive for a great book.
Which picture books are hard to illustrate? Which ones are easy?
This is hard to say. I begin my work on the sketch pad before scanning it into the computer to design, color and complete. Sometimes you are just working, working, working on a character or creature and you cannot get it the way you want--maybe the equivalent to writer’s block--when, out of the blue you get the image you like and it moves quickly. Some parts of the book can be so easy and then you find another illustration to be challenge. Each book has its own unique set of problems and solutions.
Do you get into 'The Zone' often when you work on your art? How would you describe 'The Zone'?
I’m sure it is the same feeling as in writing, sports or whatever one does, when it is coming together and you feel all is working so well you want to just keep going; losing all sense of time and the things happening around you. I love that place.
Is there anything else you'd like to say to our readers?
Illustrators and Writers keep writing or drawing, and strive to be your very best. I feel blessed to be doing what I love.
Thanks, Kit, and good luck with your work!
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