https://www.randmcollective.com/blog daily 0.75 2025-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/07ffc2c5-5d48-4f58-8f41-26ee4b1389a0/wannabeelineupsmalleri.jpg https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/2025/9/1/1dke9qwl9a7swpibsnrk7q02s7ilef monthly 0.5 2025-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0fa40606-3d8c-403c-af9e-a6ae7a68502f/foreigneditions.jpg the Wanna Bee - Sharing Stories - BUNNY SHOULD BE SLEEPING By Renata Liwska and Amy Hest In Korean, Japanese, German, and Czech. https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/2025/8/31/jba344yfjssad3ojp1clmsd2owg71a monthly 0.5 2025-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e19d4b70-3189-4ce4-92da-8568c55d098a/littlecoyotecover.jpg the Wanna Bee - Where The Dads All Go - A Boy Can Dream This book is about a childhood dream of having your own secret space. A dark, dusty, and cramped place to call your own. Hidden away in the unfinished recesses of suburbia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6f111755-3c35-4bbc-a3b6-855753521c25/wannabeetumble.jpg the Wanna Bee - Where The Dads All Go - The Little Coyote Cannot Wait An underground kids story about sons and fathers. A self published zine by Mike Kerr Release Date TBA https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/2025/6/27/g2cr18m2a64f5n0v0xu1b7rcyyla7z monthly 0.5 2025-09-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e75e13c1-f768-4bc2-91ff-c50e6085938b/bookstack.jpg the Wanna Bee - Preamble - An Art School Book Club Not reviews, more like study notes for art students. https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/2025/8/29/a-requisite-for-drawing monthly 0.5 2025-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/b24ec1f5-1828-46e7-8022-67ede32b4b93/fullspreadwannabee.jpg the Wanna Bee - Requisites for Drawing - My Sketchbook Drawing Guide Stories, exercises, and thoughts on sketching with purpose and for fun. A self published zine by Mike Kerr Release Date TBA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ed2bc801-64e8-4324-a6bc-0a02f3e0a987/wannabeespread.jpg the Wanna Bee - Requisites for Drawing - requisite | ˈrekwəzət | noun A thing that is necessary for the achievement of a specified end. https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/2025/8/23/you-are-who-you-know monthly 0.5 2025-09-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5b501ca8-3b5c-46e5-ac83-1448672bf574/marcus1.jpg the Wanna Bee - You Are Who You Know - Book no. 8 Marcus Aurelius My Interpretation of Meditations Book One by the Roman Emperor and Stoic Philosopher Marcus Aurelius. A self published zine by Mike Kerr Release Date TBA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ad5c62a4-4640-4686-842d-34d3f03e625c/marcus2.jpg the Wanna Bee - You Are Who You Know - Mindscapes Improbable and impossible landscapes for encouraging contemplation. Somewhere to explore the visual juxtaposition of places and ideas. https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/2025/6/26/astronautical monthly 0.5 2025-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/b9c7345d-a172-4c3e-b391-eca632ddd918/astronautical.jpg the Wanna Bee - Generational Storytelling - Astronautical! By Brooklin Stormie published by Annick Press Art School Book Club https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/2025/6/27/un679lkdd9hjflktakwas1i1c9fnbv monthly 0.5 2025-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/43269fc9-1a26-4739-85c8-b3e0d89a40bc/pigeon.jpg the Wanna Bee - Child Friendly - The Pigeon Finds A Hot Dog! By Mo Willems Published by Hyperion Books for Children Art School Book Club https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Renata%27s+Books monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Feature+Collaborative monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Collaborative monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Principles+Office monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Crafts monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Coffee monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Best+Of+Last monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Renata+Liwska monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Profile monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Art+School+Book+Club monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Mike+Kerr monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/category/Mikes+Books monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/blog/tag/crafty+llama monthly 0.5 https://www.randmcollective.com/mike-kerr daily 0.75 2025-03-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714791337372-YHPY1KDVD468M1KPNYQI/introimagemikekerr.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746799467-JGJOMP6QQASSQVC3K8JG/dogriver.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Life is a river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0d5b6f6c-9e03-490e-845e-3004b4b12311/youngwizard.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Bring the light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cbb6f9b4-db1d-4b4b-aaa6-f678add6a48e/media.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Media overload. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746791378-0YZ9YNQJ5EPDR0FBPO21/bearwaiting.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Wait it out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746782921-IQNO81UAEZ8HFRR5ZJP1/power.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Break through. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/72ee88aa-58d6-4684-8a84-1fd18e0c3dac/ego.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Echo and Narcissus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c8a6e83b-7b94-4000-8a20-38de64c7bc9a/ontheedge.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Over the edge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746792903-ZX66IWQMDWY1TEWH11MR/spidermonster.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Taking on risk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/985be8cd-e05a-4de3-afec-80d5513c8b20/carryhead.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Toxic baggage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746790499-4ISV10MDLNPNJGKO60RD/followrobot.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Leading tech. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746787443-84FDKRQF4QYY1IZQCQ5I/quadwiz.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out About the shape of things. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746800096-XE88AW5I8GEWT99263Q0/spacetaxi.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out The next big thing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/904b7198-70a2-4fa1-917b-2d4fea1b3d64/portal.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Down deep. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746784471-UTW4747NMKD20RIUYO8K/terminal.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Terminal input. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746798209-QE9QA2UQS1DQ1SNX4RFL/bridge.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Bridging the gap. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746788999-R4HRU420LLC7TMURMDM2/bearsteps.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out A fresh start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746797601-8PZWU6BRNBM2LKOD9NQZ/swordwarning.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Early warning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/83f4cedb-cf2b-494c-b192-c21f56a12cc5/cornered.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Cornered. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746799467-JGJOMP6QQASSQVC3K8JG/dogriver.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Life is a river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0d5b6f6c-9e03-490e-845e-3004b4b12311/youngwizard.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Bring the light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cbb6f9b4-db1d-4b4b-aaa6-f678add6a48e/media.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Media overload. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746791378-0YZ9YNQJ5EPDR0FBPO21/bearwaiting.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Wait it out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746782921-IQNO81UAEZ8HFRR5ZJP1/power.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Break through. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/72ee88aa-58d6-4684-8a84-1fd18e0c3dac/ego.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Echo and Narcissus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c8a6e83b-7b94-4000-8a20-38de64c7bc9a/ontheedge.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Over the edge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746792903-ZX66IWQMDWY1TEWH11MR/spidermonster.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Taking on risk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/985be8cd-e05a-4de3-afec-80d5513c8b20/carryhead.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Toxic baggage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746790499-4ISV10MDLNPNJGKO60RD/followrobot.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Leading tech. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746787443-84FDKRQF4QYY1IZQCQ5I/quadwiz.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out About the shape of things. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746800096-XE88AW5I8GEWT99263Q0/spacetaxi.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out The next big thing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/904b7198-70a2-4fa1-917b-2d4fea1b3d64/portal.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Down deep. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746784471-UTW4747NMKD20RIUYO8K/terminal.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Terminal input. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746798209-QE9QA2UQS1DQ1SNX4RFL/bridge.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Bridging the gap. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746788999-R4HRU420LLC7TMURMDM2/bearsteps.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out A fresh start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714746797601-8PZWU6BRNBM2LKOD9NQZ/swordwarning.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Early warning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/83f4cedb-cf2b-494c-b192-c21f56a12cc5/cornered.jpg Mike Kerr - Other Stuff - Make it stand out Cornered. https://www.randmcollective.com/renataliwska daily 0.75 2025-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714853624350-ULUE83HT03SX9FKROFFB/renataliwskaintro.jpg Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg Renata Liwska - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg Renata Liwska - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg Renata Liwska - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg Renata Liwska - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg Renata Liwska - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg Renata Liwska - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg Renata Liwska - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg Renata Liwska - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg Renata Liwska - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg Renata Liwska - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg Renata Liwska - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg Renata Liwska - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg Renata Liwska - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg Renata Liwska - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg Renata Liwska - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg Renata Liwska - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg Renata Liwska - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg Renata Liwska - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/contact daily 0.75 2019-09-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1501768555589-88Z8QVX385H88HC3CPT2/mail.jpg Contact https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1501768555589-88Z8QVX385H88HC3CPT2/mail.jpg Contact https://www.randmcollective.com/faq daily 0.75 2017-08-03 https://www.randmcollective.com/about daily 0.75 2023-10-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1501770291894-ADVAIJ6XRH1BBVMU1ZH8/image-asset.jpeg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1501770291894-ADVAIJ6XRH1BBVMU1ZH8/image-asset.jpeg About https://www.randmcollective.com/colouring daily 0.75 2020-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594960253276-VCYY981JJOD146UXOJKM/studentsamples_colourbookblue2.jpg Colouring - under the sea What do you see when you look at the sea? A seagull, a bit of seaweed, a broken seashell, A calm blue desert – or a storm of crashing waves! And if you were to look beneath those waves? what would you see … https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594935274712-1G2K83SFA6TVOQ7DA6XB/colouringorangesquare.jpg Colouring - go with the flow “What would you see?” Each student will write and illustrate their own spread in response to that question. Consider telling a story that would interest young children and designing characters kids would enjoy spending time with as they colour. Beyond storytelling consider the activity of colouring and how your design can influence the experience using pattern, movement, and composition. Research marine fauna to develop characters of your own design, and explore ocean flora to dream up a world for your characters to inhabit. The video below shows student examples. (2 minutes 23 seconds) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594935563056-6W4E7WB002VD8QQN9Y30/yellowsquare.jpg Colouring - get in line A colouring book page is an excellent opportunity to focus on your line work. Traditionally colouring books have a thick cartoon line, but is that a fixed rule or just a habit? Line weight and the character of line can be used by an artist to control not only the visual elements of an image but the visual communication of an image. Line can be used to establish mood, style, and enhance the emotive qualities of your visual storytelling. The video below discusses some examples. (2 minutes 46 seconds) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594951393577-F8S0GR7SBJDL2X999E26/bookpagedimensions.jpg Colouring - into the deep end A short deadline for this project reflects a real world project timeline and is to transition students from an academic to a professional creative mindset. Students will have to use time effectively and make decisions quickly. Deliverables: PDF digital file / 300 dpi / .25 inch bleed 17 inch x 11 inch spread (two 8.5 inch x 11 inch pages) Choice of any B+W medium including digital and/or traditional must include text (avoid gutter) Due in 2 weeks week one – comprehensive rough week two – finished art https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594959733838-DJAYKDMW36XF7BMLXET9/digitalfishlinegreen.jpg Colouring - It’s not all kids stuff From a professional perspective a colouring book is a strong and viable illustration medium. Publishing for children remains a healthy market for illustrators as digital experiences have been unable to replace the intimacy of the analog experience. And colouring books as an illustration medium can also be used in other communication industries. Advertising, corporate, nonprofits, and others use this technique to communicate to young audiences all the time. Because black and white drawing fees tend to be lower, working quick and efficiently is important. The video below discusses some digital techniques that could help. (4 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594960253276-VCYY981JJOD146UXOJKM/studentsamples_colourbookblue2.jpg Colouring - under the sea What do you see when you look at the sea? A seagull, a bit of seaweed, a broken seashell, A calm blue desert – or a storm of crashing waves! And if you were to look beneath those waves? what would you see … https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594935274712-1G2K83SFA6TVOQ7DA6XB/colouringorangesquare.jpg Colouring - go with the flow “What would you see?” Each student will write and illustrate their own spread in response to that question. Consider telling a story that would interest young children and designing characters kids would enjoy spending time with as they colour. Beyond storytelling consider the activity of colouring and how your design can influence the experience using pattern, movement, and composition. Research marine fauna to develop characters of your own design, and explore ocean flora to dream up a world for your characters to inhabit. The video below shows student examples. (2 minutes 23 seconds) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594935563056-6W4E7WB002VD8QQN9Y30/yellowsquare.jpg Colouring - get in line A colouring book page is an excellent opportunity to focus on your line work. Traditionally colouring books have a thick cartoon line, but is that a fixed rule or just a habit? Line weight and the character of line can be used by an artist to control not only the visual elements of an image but the visual communication of an image. Line can be used to establish mood, style, and enhance the emotive qualities of your visual storytelling. The video below discusses some examples. (2 minutes 46 seconds) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594951393577-F8S0GR7SBJDL2X999E26/bookpagedimensions.jpg Colouring - into the deep end A short deadline for this project reflects a real world project timeline and is to transition students from an academic to a professional creative mindset. Students will have to use time effectively and make decisions quickly. Deliverables: PDF digital file / 300 dpi / .25 inch bleed 17 inch x 11 inch spread (two 8.5 inch x 11 inch pages) Choice of any B+W medium including digital and/or traditional must include text (avoid gutter) Due in 2 weeks week one – comprehensive rough week two – finished art https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1594959733838-DJAYKDMW36XF7BMLXET9/digitalfishlinegreen.jpg Colouring - It’s not all kids stuff From a professional perspective a colouring book is a strong and viable illustration medium. Publishing for children remains a healthy market for illustrators as digital experiences have been unable to replace the intimacy of the analog experience. And colouring books as an illustration medium can also be used in other communication industries. Advertising, corporate, nonprofits, and others use this technique to communicate to young audiences all the time. Because black and white drawing fees tend to be lower, working quick and efficiently is important. The video below discusses some digital techniques that could help. (4 minutes) https://www.randmcollective.com/create daily 0.75 2020-09-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599184594497-E5E56G8U0L4PP3CRTOL9/flowerthumb.jpg Create - show, tell, and create It’s easy to become so focused on the act of making art that the act itself becomes the art – art for art sake as the saying goes. But for visual communication the visual is only the first word, communication is the second. Perhaps it’s because learning to make art is straight forward, we put in our 10,000 hours of critical study and we’re good to go. But creativity seems more ephemeral. Harder to identify, and to grasp a hold of. But what if the art of coming up with ideas is perfected the same way as making art? Through critical study, and practice. Achieved by a straight forward process of learning to make ideas from what we see, feel, and experience in our everyday living. The video below is an example of this creative process. (5 minutes 25 sec) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599184809312-RVX0MJJ7WQ3RBIV9833P/shapethumb.jpg Create - critical practice Critical study is a term you may be familiar with from your academic studies. A variation on that concept which, from the perspective of a practicing professional is perhaps more relevant, is critical practice. Becoming familiar with the concept of critical practice – and putting it directly into … practice, is in my experience what is the defining characteristic of transforming the dream of making art – into a reality. The video below discusses an example of critical practice. (3 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599184594497-E5E56G8U0L4PP3CRTOL9/flowerthumb.jpg Create - show, tell, and create It’s easy to become so focused on the act of making art that the act itself becomes the art – art for art sake as the saying goes. But for visual communication the visual is only the first word, communication is the second. Perhaps it’s because learning to make art is straight forward, we put in our 10,000 hours of critical study and we’re good to go. But creativity seems more ephemeral. Harder to identify, and to grasp a hold of. But what if the art of coming up with ideas is perfected the same way as making art? Through critical study, and practice. Achieved by a straight forward process of learning to make ideas from what we see, feel, and experience in our everyday living. The video below is an example of this creative process. (5 minutes 25 sec) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599184809312-RVX0MJJ7WQ3RBIV9833P/shapethumb.jpg Create - critical practice Critical study is a term you may be familiar with from your academic studies. A variation on that concept which, from the perspective of a practicing professional is perhaps more relevant, is critical practice. Becoming familiar with the concept of critical practice – and putting it directly into … practice, is in my experience what is the defining characteristic of transforming the dream of making art – into a reality. The video below discusses an example of critical practice. (3 minutes) https://www.randmcollective.com/drawfromlife daily 0.75 2020-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599226952103-360TP0WZLCY7YIZBZN0M/launch.jpg Draw from Life - WHERE DO IDEAS COME FROM? Are they handed down or given? Do you need to search carefully, dig deep, leave no rock unturned? Might they be stumbled upon, found by accident, by happenstance? Are they just around the corner, just out of sight, over the next hill? Do they slip away, fleeting, hard to see, or fade away soon after they appear? Are they from your experience, your life, the past … the now? Maybe they’re something you’ve noticed, observed, or seen? How would you recognize them? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599227293473-ORIJMT0MLEDJFXLDZ82L/flowerthumb.jpg Draw from Life - show, tell, and create It’s easy to become so focused on the act of making art that the act itself becomes the art – art for art sake as the saying goes. But for visual communication the visual is only the first word, communication is the second. Perhaps it’s because learning to make art is straight forward, we put in our 10,000 hours of critical study and we’re good to go. But creativity seems more ephemeral. Harder to identify, and to grasp a hold of. But what if the art of coming up with ideas is perfected the same way as making art? Through critical study, and practice. Achieved by a straight forward process of learning to make ideas from what we see, feel, and experience in our everyday living. The video below is an example of this creative process. (5 minutes 25 sec) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599227490494-PAVDUQVIVVCGEXAASESR/shapethumb.jpg Draw from Life - critical practice Critical study is a term you may be familiar with from your academic studies. A variation on that concept which, from the perspective of a practicing professional is perhaps more relevant, is critical practice. Becoming familiar with the concept of critical practice – and putting it directly into … practice, can be a defining factor in transforming the dream of making art as a profession – into a reality. The video below discusses an example of critical practice. (3 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599228528420-FQBYD0T13NPG5KPCIC3Y/panels.jpg Draw from Life - Warm up Exercise Divide a sketchbook spread (2 pages) into panels of any format. Sketch storytelling environments using primary shapes such as cones, cylinders, spheres, pyramids, boxes, etc. Sketches can be based on observational drawing from life, from photos, scenes from tv/film, and your imagination. Include line, tone and volume. Drawing environments can be difficult to get jazzed about. One thing that has freed my imagination is eliminating gravity, I let things float or exist by their own rules. Exercise should be done in under an hour, with coffee or some other calming ritual. (but you can do more if it’s fun) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599226952103-360TP0WZLCY7YIZBZN0M/launch.jpg Draw from Life - WHERE DO IDEAS COME FROM? Are they handed down or given? Do you need to search carefully, dig deep, leave no rock unturned? Might they be stumbled upon, found by accident, by happenstance? Are they just around the corner, just out of sight, over the next hill? Do they slip away, fleeting, hard to see, or fade away soon after they appear? Are they from your experience, your life, the past … the now? Maybe they’re something you’ve noticed, observed, or seen? How would you recognize them? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599227293473-ORIJMT0MLEDJFXLDZ82L/flowerthumb.jpg Draw from Life - show, tell, and create It’s easy to become so focused on the act of making art that the act itself becomes the art – art for art sake as the saying goes. But for visual communication the visual is only the first word, communication is the second. Perhaps it’s because learning to make art is straight forward, we put in our 10,000 hours of critical study and we’re good to go. But creativity seems more ephemeral. Harder to identify, and to grasp a hold of. But what if the art of coming up with ideas is perfected the same way as making art? Through critical study, and practice. Achieved by a straight forward process of learning to make ideas from what we see, feel, and experience in our everyday living. The video below is an example of this creative process. (5 minutes 25 sec) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599227490494-PAVDUQVIVVCGEXAASESR/shapethumb.jpg Draw from Life - critical practice Critical study is a term you may be familiar with from your academic studies. A variation on that concept which, from the perspective of a practicing professional is perhaps more relevant, is critical practice. Becoming familiar with the concept of critical practice – and putting it directly into … practice, can be a defining factor in transforming the dream of making art as a profession – into a reality. The video below discusses an example of critical practice. (3 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599228528420-FQBYD0T13NPG5KPCIC3Y/panels.jpg Draw from Life - Warm up Exercise Divide a sketchbook spread (2 pages) into panels of any format. Sketch storytelling environments using primary shapes such as cones, cylinders, spheres, pyramids, boxes, etc. Sketches can be based on observational drawing from life, from photos, scenes from tv/film, and your imagination. Include line, tone and volume. Drawing environments can be difficult to get jazzed about. One thing that has freed my imagination is eliminating gravity, I let things float or exist by their own rules. Exercise should be done in under an hour, with coffee or some other calming ritual. (but you can do more if it’s fun) https://www.randmcollective.com/shapes daily 0.75 2020-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599601658465-I1RVZW4GKSHVG3T2W8SZ/arttools.jpg Shapes - BUILDING CHARACTER(S) Artists of all ages should get an average of 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous sketching each day. Along with consuming a healthy diet of intellectual stimulus, being creatively active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599601754895-5Q9Z9RU3L5ZV1W5C48UX/shapes.jpg Shapes - just face it There are no short cuts. No tricks, no secret hand shakes, no way around it. If you want to draw well you’re going to need need to draw … A LOT! But if you’re into sequential art such as comics, animation, storyboarding, and such, you’re in luck. Drawing is what it’s all about – if you can do enough of it. And actually there are some sketchbook tricks to getting yourself to draw enough. Well … you can never draw enough, but the video below is something. (approx 3 min) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599602153579-NFK06JBHTABH7BX7BWGW/shapeit.jpg Shapes - shape it up! “If you put your character in an empty room would they be interesting? Somebody you would like to meet, want to hang out with, and get to know?” I’ve heard it said that the mind is a muscle, and in that context it makes sense that to get it to work well we need to exercise it. Quite honestly I am not good at keeping up an exercise regime, but I don’t mind putting my characters through a workout. The video below talks about how you can shape up your creative mind by giving your characters a sketchbook workout routine. (approx. 3 min) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599601658465-I1RVZW4GKSHVG3T2W8SZ/arttools.jpg Shapes - BUILDING CHARACTER(S) Artists of all ages should get an average of 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous sketching each day. Along with consuming a healthy diet of intellectual stimulus, being creatively active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599601754895-5Q9Z9RU3L5ZV1W5C48UX/shapes.jpg Shapes - just face it There are no short cuts. No tricks, no secret hand shakes, no way around it. If you want to draw well you’re going to need need to draw … A LOT! But if you’re into sequential art such as comics, animation, storyboarding, and such, you’re in luck. Drawing is what it’s all about – if you can do enough of it. And actually there are some sketchbook tricks to getting yourself to draw enough. Well … you can never draw enough, but the video below is something. (approx 3 min) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1599602153579-NFK06JBHTABH7BX7BWGW/shapeit.jpg Shapes - shape it up! “If you put your character in an empty room would they be interesting? Somebody you would like to meet, want to hang out with, and get to know?” I’ve heard it said that the mind is a muscle, and in that context it makes sense that to get it to work well we need to exercise it. Quite honestly I am not good at keeping up an exercise regime, but I don’t mind putting my characters through a workout. The video below talks about how you can shape up your creative mind by giving your characters a sketchbook workout routine. (approx. 3 min) https://www.randmcollective.com/sequential daily 0.75 2020-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600261990893-ARG75PML2ZTZGNC8UMPJ/goodorevil.jpg Sequential - consequential sequentials Does Shape have meaning? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600262937105-LIHN1QHJO8BQ3Q01FF9H/inverted2.jpg Sequential - shaping your choices Our choices have consequences, the characters we create represent something, and hopefully that something is what we intended. Even the basic shapes themselves have connotations. In signage a triangle with the pointed side down is used as a yield sign. When the pointed side is up it’s used as a warning sign. Every element of our drawings is a sign that the viewer is interpreting based on their experiences, culture, and knowledge. Likewise the choices we make in our designs come from our own experiences, culture and knowledge too. So the more we have experienced, lived, and learned the better the choices we make in our designs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600263107445-CQ9IB7VJRRCRR3GHO8W7/playact.jpg Sequential - the act of playing We want to work in the creative industry, but does it have to be work? If we are doing character design for entertainment mediums such as comics, animation, and such isn’t the whole point to have fun and entertain? And if we are having fun and making content that entertains us, it’s more than likely going to entertain others too. The process of sequential character design we are exploring here is all about play. Like a child with a toy, except we are designing the toy. But the play part is the same. The imagining, the dreaming, the asking what if? As you develop your creative process you have the opportunity to imagine a process that is custom built for you, to realize your own creative potential – and why not make it fun? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600261990893-ARG75PML2ZTZGNC8UMPJ/goodorevil.jpg Sequential - consequential sequentials Does Shape have meaning? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600262937105-LIHN1QHJO8BQ3Q01FF9H/inverted2.jpg Sequential - shaping your choices Our choices have consequences, the characters we create represent something, and hopefully that something is what we intended. Even the basic shapes themselves have connotations. In signage a triangle with the pointed side down is used as a yield sign. When the pointed side is up it’s used as a warning sign. Every element of our drawings is a sign that the viewer is interpreting based on their experiences, culture, and knowledge. Likewise the choices we make in our designs come from our own experiences, culture and knowledge too. So the more we have experienced, lived, and learned the better the choices we make in our designs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600263107445-CQ9IB7VJRRCRR3GHO8W7/playact.jpg Sequential - the act of playing We want to work in the creative industry, but does it have to be work? If we are doing character design for entertainment mediums such as comics, animation, and such isn’t the whole point to have fun and entertain? And if we are having fun and making content that entertains us, it’s more than likely going to entertain others too. The process of sequential character design we are exploring here is all about play. Like a child with a toy, except we are designing the toy. But the play part is the same. The imagining, the dreaming, the asking what if? As you develop your creative process you have the opportunity to imagine a process that is custom built for you, to realize your own creative potential – and why not make it fun? https://www.randmcollective.com/inner-voice daily 0.75 2020-12-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600357311707-4W6C6RN8FYU7G8NAQJWH/innerchild_square.gif Inner Voice - How old is your inner child? Finding your voice as an artist could be helped by listening to your inner child and getting to know them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600357460784-GMR4Q6Z142ZLDH7Z3P51/innerchildsketch.jpg Inner Voice - from the inside out Have you ever considered how old your inner child is? For artists who want to do art that is directed towards children this can be an important question to answer. We all have an inner child within us and they can have a profound effect on our work. Some artists seem to be naturally in tune with their inner child and intuitively channel that child through their art – or maybe they simply can’t ignore them? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607575642376-K0QLO0YFPA1UDDE0W2G6/oz.jpg Inner Voice - Choose the age of your inner child! Select one of the following: Option A: After the wizard leaves the emerald city an AI (artificial intelligence) takes control of the wonderful world of oz. A cybernetic robot, undead zombie, and a mutant lion band together to lead the fight … Option B: A tin boy trying to take heart, a scarecrow in need of an education, and a lion that wishes he wasn’t such a scaredy cat are caught up in a tornado that takes them far away from the wonderful world of oz. Transported to a school yard in small town kansas they have to face something more scary than any winged monkey – children! if you’ve chosen Option A your inner child may be a teenager. If you’ve chosen Option B then your inner child could be a preschooler! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600361878797-YALN6SLNEFR0TIF8CUV2/innerchildart2.jpg Inner Voice - listening in(side) If a children’s book illustrator's inner child is the same age as the children who read their books they may naturally be able to connect to that audience. Same with a comic book artist. If an artist is still a hormone powered teen comic nerd on the inside, I’m pretty sure young comic book readers are hormone powered teen comic nerds on the inside too (and the outside of course). But it can be hard to see who we really are, when the games we play, books we read, movies we watch, teachers we try to ignore, peers we jealously admire, and gigantic media conglomerates are telling us who we ought to be! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600357311707-4W6C6RN8FYU7G8NAQJWH/innerchild_square.gif Inner Voice - How old is your inner child? Finding your voice as an artist could be helped by listening to your inner child and getting to know them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600357460784-GMR4Q6Z142ZLDH7Z3P51/innerchildsketch.jpg Inner Voice - from the inside out Have you ever considered how old your inner child is? For artists who want to do art that is directed towards children this can be an important question to answer. We all have an inner child within us and they can have a profound effect on our work. Some artists seem to be naturally in tune with their inner child and intuitively channel that child through their art – or maybe they simply can’t ignore them? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607575642376-K0QLO0YFPA1UDDE0W2G6/oz.jpg Inner Voice - Choose the age of your inner child! Select one of the following: Option A: After the wizard leaves the emerald city an AI (artificial intelligence) takes control of the wonderful world of oz. A cybernetic robot, undead zombie, and a mutant lion band together to lead the fight … Option B: A tin boy trying to take heart, a scarecrow in need of an education, and a lion that wishes he wasn’t such a scaredy cat are caught up in a tornado that takes them far away from the wonderful world of oz. Transported to a school yard in small town kansas they have to face something more scary than any winged monkey – children! if you’ve chosen Option A your inner child may be a teenager. If you’ve chosen Option B then your inner child could be a preschooler! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600361878797-YALN6SLNEFR0TIF8CUV2/innerchildart2.jpg Inner Voice - listening in(side) If a children’s book illustrator's inner child is the same age as the children who read their books they may naturally be able to connect to that audience. Same with a comic book artist. If an artist is still a hormone powered teen comic nerd on the inside, I’m pretty sure young comic book readers are hormone powered teen comic nerds on the inside too (and the outside of course). But it can be hard to see who we really are, when the games we play, books we read, movies we watch, teachers we try to ignore, peers we jealously admire, and gigantic media conglomerates are telling us who we ought to be! https://www.randmcollective.com/action daily 0.75 2020-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600792579421-2NTBWKRE41HDOC03H8UC/actionheader.jpg Action - Actions say more than words Thinking, discussing, researching, planning, are all important parts of the creative process. But for a visual artist learning to tell stories – nothing beats learning by DOING. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600808812301-1PK8KE9AN3LVIVKC5JC7/shape4.jpg Action - make it up as you go I think it’s fair to assume that we spend a lot of time drawing characters singularly or in pairs. And the idea of drawing groups of characters can be a bit intimidating. One of the ways to overcome this is just start drawing groups … right? Easier said than done, drawing a group is complicated, with a lot of moving parts making it seem overwhelmingly difficult to figure out! A possible way to, figure it out, is to start by practicing with randomly placed shapes within a composition and build up a story intuitively as we draw. Like everything in learning to draw, if we do it enough we’ll get good at – or better at the very least! More in the video below (3 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600809033827-Y2LP9LOWC64U9W4TU7ZZ/shapes3.jpg Action - opening doors In learning our craft we’ve spent a good amount of time(hopefully!) learning the basics of drawing, of anatomy, and of figure drawing. And once we’ve had plenty of practice drawing the basics we can start thinking about character design, and spend a significant time (again hopefully!) building characters. After that, we might start thinking about putting those characters in comics, or animation, or whatever else we can dream up. But first … I’d be curious to know how much time we’ve practiced drawing those characters doing stuff besides a T-pose or a turn around? Perhaps it makes sense we might want to spend a bit of time (and hopefully a lot!) learning to draw our characters in action, whether in magical combat, or simply opening a door. More in the video below (3 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600809172132-LNEE1VBR0LRLNI6X9SEW/shapes2.jpg Action - key frames A good exercise is to start drawing characters in our sketchbooks doing stuff – and not just hanging out. Give them a job, something to do. Make their life exciting, so our drawings will be exciting. And while we are doing that we will get better at drawing them. Starting with a cheap sketchbook or just loose pieces of paper draw out some frames on a spread (2 facing pages). Come up with a list of single word actions or activities that your characters could perform. Using a pencil, ink pens, and grey markers (or a grey ink wash) spontaneously sketch out characters performing those action s in a sequence that works together, the example here is up, over, and down. Do about 5-8 panels minimum or as many as time allows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600792579421-2NTBWKRE41HDOC03H8UC/actionheader.jpg Action - Actions say more than words Thinking, discussing, researching, planning, are all important parts of the creative process. But for a visual artist learning to tell stories – nothing beats learning by DOING. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600808812301-1PK8KE9AN3LVIVKC5JC7/shape4.jpg Action - make it up as you go I think it’s fair to assume that we spend a lot of time drawing characters singularly or in pairs. And the idea of drawing groups of characters can be a bit intimidating. One of the ways to overcome this is just start drawing groups … right? Easier said than done, drawing a group is complicated, with a lot of moving parts making it seem overwhelmingly difficult to figure out! A possible way to, figure it out, is to start by practicing with randomly placed shapes within a composition and build up a story intuitively as we draw. Like everything in learning to draw, if we do it enough we’ll get good at – or better at the very least! More in the video below (3 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600809033827-Y2LP9LOWC64U9W4TU7ZZ/shapes3.jpg Action - opening doors In learning our craft we’ve spent a good amount of time(hopefully!) learning the basics of drawing, of anatomy, and of figure drawing. And once we’ve had plenty of practice drawing the basics we can start thinking about character design, and spend a significant time (again hopefully!) building characters. After that, we might start thinking about putting those characters in comics, or animation, or whatever else we can dream up. But first … I’d be curious to know how much time we’ve practiced drawing those characters doing stuff besides a T-pose or a turn around? Perhaps it makes sense we might want to spend a bit of time (and hopefully a lot!) learning to draw our characters in action, whether in magical combat, or simply opening a door. More in the video below (3 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600809172132-LNEE1VBR0LRLNI6X9SEW/shapes2.jpg Action - key frames A good exercise is to start drawing characters in our sketchbooks doing stuff – and not just hanging out. Give them a job, something to do. Make their life exciting, so our drawings will be exciting. And while we are doing that we will get better at drawing them. Starting with a cheap sketchbook or just loose pieces of paper draw out some frames on a spread (2 facing pages). Come up with a list of single word actions or activities that your characters could perform. Using a pencil, ink pens, and grey markers (or a grey ink wash) spontaneously sketch out characters performing those action s in a sequence that works together, the example here is up, over, and down. Do about 5-8 panels minimum or as many as time allows. https://www.randmcollective.com/literature daily 0.75 2022-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642181897674-74E0G8KP7E1PT0D8QTLM/bookpile.jpg Literature - Flying of the shelf For illustrators literature is an exciting and challenging market to explore. Book publishing is a valued part of our culture and reading books an important part of many peoples lives. Visual artists are a part of that reading experience with cover illustration and other art they contribute. More than ever illustrated covers are being commissioned for books and the great diversity of styles and approaches have made for a rich visual opportunity for artists and readers. New books need covers that inspire readers to take a chance on something new and old books are alway being republished and repackaged for new generations of readers. Beyond the physical printed book, books have become a source of inspiration for many other contemporary mediums. Online, film, animation, and comics to name a few. With a rich history of book literature, many of which are in the public domain, visual artists have the opportunity to build the foundations of their work directly on the words and stories of classic books by adapting, republishing, and reimagining older works for contemporary mediums and audiences. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600976841003-YDE922TGAGIMGPRRW0FN/bookcover.jpg Literature - Getting noticed There are a lot of good books out there (and some not so good too) so choosing a book off the shelf can be difficult. But what about online where many, maybe even most, books are purchased? If you take a look at your favourite independent bookstores shelves (we have several including Shelf Life, Pages, and Owls Nest Books) you may notice a clear trend in how book covers are composed. The imagery is often iconic or simplified, easy to recognize and clearly understood from a quick glance. Especially, when scrolling through an online bookstore. To help us get straight to the point when designing and illustrating cover we can go to the basics of design fundamentals such as using contrast to create clear and focused images. More in the video below (3 minutes). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642175626291-X0BJBGIAE60HH5HLPWGA/malegaze.jpg Literature - What is your perspective Books are written from a certain point of view. Both the characters perspectives, and how the author themselves reflect their times and philosophy. As artists illustrating books we can reframe that perspective to demonstrate how those points of view are still relevant. But we as artists have our own perspective and way we look at things too. It can come from our experiences, our beliefs, and the cultural or societal attitudes and values of our time. With the power of visual storytelling we have the opportunity to frame or even reframe the narrative. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642181897674-74E0G8KP7E1PT0D8QTLM/bookpile.jpg Literature - Flying of the shelf For illustrators literature is an exciting and challenging market to explore. Book publishing is a valued part of our culture and reading books an important part of many peoples lives. Visual artists are a part of that reading experience with cover illustration and other art they contribute. More than ever illustrated covers are being commissioned for books and the great diversity of styles and approaches have made for a rich visual opportunity for artists and readers. New books need covers that inspire readers to take a chance on something new and old books are alway being republished and repackaged for new generations of readers. Beyond the physical printed book, books have become a source of inspiration for many other contemporary mediums. Online, film, animation, and comics to name a few. With a rich history of book literature, many of which are in the public domain, visual artists have the opportunity to build the foundations of their work directly on the words and stories of classic books by adapting, republishing, and reimagining older works for contemporary mediums and audiences. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177295745-UNQWVYT8K9RMTJ11C8UE/IMG_1053.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177296095-65GBG3FLXJP1CEANQ3IC/IMG_1052.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177296496-6TJBDYWU4BIEBHPG2OIT/IMG_1051.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177296981-WCG86ICA5GTOR1HJ9ZOQ/IMG_1050.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177297339-OSDQOCYKIZ8VD79UHWUB/IMG_1049.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177297855-61BI70R7M1CCCPR5V5RQ/IMG_1042.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177298338-2EX6CPP6VSR8B7DNR06F/IMG_1041.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177298709-HE3PC52QYG65YSI01ARL/IMG_1048.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177299158-B3Y9MGRL73Z06XDT448H/IMG_1047.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177299567-W0C99TR1WFFC7TSKT3TX/IMG_1046.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177300139-3YVH4JHYWJDGR0ZXT2MT/IMG_1045.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177300644-2T0G13H36IFFXD8HTACM/IMG_1044.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177301117-Q3B48526US6PW384GFXW/IMG_1043.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177301520-522OYYJPGJUKK7V07UCC/IMG_1040.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177301910-DFZNXL5DSG9NQ8IOHLSV/IMG_1039.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177302523-QIROGOQ2R53QH9GD6BVT/IMG_1038.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177303071-B3EAIMZYJ70BG2053RRI/IMG_1037.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177303671-EYVJMM350F5ZFMU5CW1B/IMG_1036.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642177304148-RGZ3627LWNOYPY21L8JG/IMG_1035.jpg Literature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1600976841003-YDE922TGAGIMGPRRW0FN/bookcover.jpg Literature - Getting noticed There are a lot of good books out there (and some not so good too) so choosing a book off the shelf can be difficult. But what about online where many, maybe even most, books are purchased? If you take a look at your favourite independent bookstores shelves (we have several including Shelf Life, Pages, and Owls Nest Books) you may notice a clear trend in how book covers are composed. The imagery is often iconic or simplified, easy to recognize and clearly understood from a quick glance. Especially, when scrolling through an online bookstore. To help us get straight to the point when designing and illustrating cover we can go to the basics of design fundamentals such as using contrast to create clear and focused images. More in the video below (3 minutes). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642175626291-X0BJBGIAE60HH5HLPWGA/malegaze.jpg Literature - What is your perspective Books are written from a certain point of view. Both the characters perspectives, and how the author themselves reflect their times and philosophy. As artists illustrating books we can reframe that perspective to demonstrate how those points of view are still relevant. But we as artists have our own perspective and way we look at things too. It can come from our experiences, our beliefs, and the cultural or societal attitudes and values of our time. With the power of visual storytelling we have the opportunity to frame or even reframe the narrative. https://www.randmcollective.com/juxtaposition daily 0.75 2020-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1602047084502-PYBTTL9SOER4FDU1FNXD/startitle.jpg Juxtaposition - setting the scene Our innate ability to perceive patterns through the Gestalt principles described as proximity, similarity, continuity, closure, and connectedness are fundamental in how we interpret visual narratives such as a graphic novel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1602047575386-BSTHU7CD9SUDF1VXAE0D/juxtapositionb.jpg Juxtaposition - reading between the pictures A genuinely unique aspect of sequential mediums such as comic books or even picture books is that the reader participates in the creative process by filling in the blanks between panels or pages as they read the story. This interpretation of visual clues gives the reader a strong connection to the content because the viewer is actively engaged in the story making process. And the more a story has the reader interpreting the plot through juxtaposition the more engaged the reader will be. The video below discusses an example. (2 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1602047826843-LYI1NUL2IE3CNDPX265T/storyarcb.jpg Juxtaposition - like a roller coaster ride The story or narrative arc is often described as having 5 parts, exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and denouement. (which I have likely mispronounced in the video below!) This sequencing of the plot contributes to getting a reader interested in a story – and in keeping them interested. A useful sketchbook exercise for artists interested in storytelling is to break down an existing or original story into the 5 parts of a narrative arc. The video below discusses this and also has a sketchbook/picture book painting demo. (8 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1602047084502-PYBTTL9SOER4FDU1FNXD/startitle.jpg Juxtaposition - setting the scene Our innate ability to perceive patterns through the Gestalt principles described as proximity, similarity, continuity, closure, and connectedness are fundamental in how we interpret visual narratives such as a graphic novel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1602047575386-BSTHU7CD9SUDF1VXAE0D/juxtapositionb.jpg Juxtaposition - reading between the pictures A genuinely unique aspect of sequential mediums such as comic books or even picture books is that the reader participates in the creative process by filling in the blanks between panels or pages as they read the story. This interpretation of visual clues gives the reader a strong connection to the content because the viewer is actively engaged in the story making process. And the more a story has the reader interpreting the plot through juxtaposition the more engaged the reader will be. The video below discusses an example. (2 minutes) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1602047826843-LYI1NUL2IE3CNDPX265T/storyarcb.jpg Juxtaposition - like a roller coaster ride The story or narrative arc is often described as having 5 parts, exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and denouement. (which I have likely mispronounced in the video below!) This sequencing of the plot contributes to getting a reader interested in a story – and in keeping them interested. A useful sketchbook exercise for artists interested in storytelling is to break down an existing or original story into the 5 parts of a narrative arc. The video below discusses this and also has a sketchbook/picture book painting demo. (8 minutes) https://www.randmcollective.com/wordsandpictures daily 0.75 2020-12-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607576624487-L20IJPR25BTK5ZF1F8MJ/skateheader.jpg wordsandpictures - More than words if a picture is worth a thousand words, what are pictures and words combined worth? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603381686254-M86QBQK9X8D1ZIWWR426/beesketches.jpg wordsandpictures - don’t just stand there If there was a text book for picture book art it could be Martin Salisbury’s Illustrating for Children's Books : Creating Pictures for Publication. It’s an older book but much of it is still relevant. One section that has always stuck with me is about designing characters in action. It suggest that you consider your characters as actors and have them perform or do a little dance, bring them to life, as you design them. Personally I die a little bit inside every time I see a character on instagram stiffly posed looking at the viewer, or a T-pose (how many T-poses do we need in a portfolio?), or even a pinup action pose. Our characters could be so much more than their shape, clothing, and attitude. By acting out when we design we are once again using and exercising multiple creative muscles and once again we will have ready made content we can add to the vault. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603377022268-1FEAC1S3TM64NNJL8J1R/shapes3.jpg wordsandpictures - take action In a few short months you are on your own. No teachers to nag – or to nurture you. With no deadlines and no project assignments many students can quickly feel adrift after graduation. Having a healthy and self sustaining creative process that will keep your sails full and help map out a course forward can be a lifestyle saver. Your sketchbook can become the centre of this healthy creative lifestyle. Through purposeful sketching an artist can continue developing their skills, build content, and find their voice. Or just find peace of mind – whether you find yourself becalmed or in the calm before a storm. Building on our last exercise a fun and healthy sketch habit is to give your characters something to do, make them useful. Story driven sketching works more creative muscles than just character design skills and the drawings can become a vault of saved up ideas that you can make withdrawals from when you’re starving for an idea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607576624487-L20IJPR25BTK5ZF1F8MJ/skateheader.jpg wordsandpictures - More than words if a picture is worth a thousand words, what are pictures and words combined worth? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603381686254-M86QBQK9X8D1ZIWWR426/beesketches.jpg wordsandpictures - don’t just stand there If there was a text book for picture book art it could be Martin Salisbury’s Illustrating for Children's Books : Creating Pictures for Publication. It’s an older book but much of it is still relevant. One section that has always stuck with me is about designing characters in action. It suggest that you consider your characters as actors and have them perform or do a little dance, bring them to life, as you design them. Personally I die a little bit inside every time I see a character on instagram stiffly posed looking at the viewer, or a T-pose (how many T-poses do we need in a portfolio?), or even a pinup action pose. Our characters could be so much more than their shape, clothing, and attitude. By acting out when we design we are once again using and exercising multiple creative muscles and once again we will have ready made content we can add to the vault. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603377022268-1FEAC1S3TM64NNJL8J1R/shapes3.jpg wordsandpictures - take action In a few short months you are on your own. No teachers to nag – or to nurture you. With no deadlines and no project assignments many students can quickly feel adrift after graduation. Having a healthy and self sustaining creative process that will keep your sails full and help map out a course forward can be a lifestyle saver. Your sketchbook can become the centre of this healthy creative lifestyle. Through purposeful sketching an artist can continue developing their skills, build content, and find their voice. Or just find peace of mind – whether you find yourself becalmed or in the calm before a storm. Building on our last exercise a fun and healthy sketch habit is to give your characters something to do, make them useful. Story driven sketching works more creative muscles than just character design skills and the drawings can become a vault of saved up ideas that you can make withdrawals from when you’re starving for an idea. https://www.randmcollective.com/industry daily 0.75 2020-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603995346498-PN9HVIE6O3T4ID926O0I/industry.jpg Industry - 4 easy steps to getting into kids lit Okay maybe not easy, but doable. These are based on observing Renata’s experiences on how to do it right, and my own first hand experiences on how not to do it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603991792673-4X05O95C318DMUS3L0BT/kidsbookclone_bwy1.jpg Industry - Bring out your inner self Practice and Study – Draw every single possible moment you can, but with purpose. Draw cute kids – Kids books are about kids. Draw cuddly animals – As mentioned kids books are about kids, but kids are often drawn as animals. Draw fun stories – Kids books are storybooks, draw storytelling pictures with kids doing fun stuff. Draw playful places – Kids like to go out and play and explore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603991847548-3LY54G580IEM9YDKR1T7/kidsbookclone_bwy2.jpg Industry - Research kids lit Remember what it was to be a kid. Read kids books, better yet read to kids, it’s eye opening to see what actual children respond too. Visit a bookstore or library to see what books are out there. Research publishers. Make a list, understand what types of books they publish and what they are looking for. Don’t send to publishers that don’t need your style of work. Editors and Art Directors are generally who buy and hire art for publishing. Research literary agents. The easiest way to do this is to look at illustrators you like and identify who their agents are. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603991901128-N6B2HN1B7300TBW2YPK6/kidsbookclone_bwy3.jpg Industry - Build a body of work Build a Portfolio. It makes sense to have a portfolio with a diversity of content and types of books. Make yourself appear useful, clients are looking to find someone to solve a problem they have. Consider what your angle is, how do you differentiate your work. Approx 15 images at least, include process which can build understanding and trust, a dedicated instagram page is fine. A diverse portfolio can showcase a variety of communication methods, genres, and markets. A portfolio should be a live document that is changing as you grow your work, voice, and your understanding of the industry and relevancy of your work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603994292163-83VH74B467RDFO5P9XBZ/kidsbookclone_bwy4b.jpg Industry - Connect with others Design a promotional strategy, create promos and mailers (digital and/or print), create an identity, consider direct publishing, build a five year plan and a schedule of promotion, read books and research marketing. Learn about business. Consider other markets outside of the printed book. Online, mobile games, digital education, motion, ebooks, Patreon, and such. Kids literature can also be thought of as a method of communication for anyone that needs to talk to kids. Institutions, government, public service, editorial, advertising, and beyond. Join the SCBWI. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603995346498-PN9HVIE6O3T4ID926O0I/industry.jpg Industry - 4 easy steps to getting into kids lit Okay maybe not easy, but doable. These are based on observing Renata’s experiences on how to do it right, and my own first hand experiences on how not to do it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603991792673-4X05O95C318DMUS3L0BT/kidsbookclone_bwy1.jpg Industry - Bring out your inner self Practice and Study – Draw every single possible moment you can, but with purpose. Draw cute kids – Kids books are about kids. Draw cuddly animals – As mentioned kids books are about kids, but kids are often drawn as animals. Draw fun stories – Kids books are storybooks, draw storytelling pictures with kids doing fun stuff. Draw playful places – Kids like to go out and play and explore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603991847548-3LY54G580IEM9YDKR1T7/kidsbookclone_bwy2.jpg Industry - Research kids lit Remember what it was to be a kid. Read kids books, better yet read to kids, it’s eye opening to see what actual children respond too. Visit a bookstore or library to see what books are out there. Research publishers. Make a list, understand what types of books they publish and what they are looking for. Don’t send to publishers that don’t need your style of work. Editors and Art Directors are generally who buy and hire art for publishing. Research literary agents. The easiest way to do this is to look at illustrators you like and identify who their agents are. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603991901128-N6B2HN1B7300TBW2YPK6/kidsbookclone_bwy3.jpg Industry - Build a body of work Build a Portfolio. It makes sense to have a portfolio with a diversity of content and types of books. Make yourself appear useful, clients are looking to find someone to solve a problem they have. Consider what your angle is, how do you differentiate your work. Approx 15 images at least, include process which can build understanding and trust, a dedicated instagram page is fine. A diverse portfolio can showcase a variety of communication methods, genres, and markets. A portfolio should be a live document that is changing as you grow your work, voice, and your understanding of the industry and relevancy of your work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1603994292163-83VH74B467RDFO5P9XBZ/kidsbookclone_bwy4b.jpg Industry - Connect with others Design a promotional strategy, create promos and mailers (digital and/or print), create an identity, consider direct publishing, build a five year plan and a schedule of promotion, read books and research marketing. Learn about business. Consider other markets outside of the printed book. Online, mobile games, digital education, motion, ebooks, Patreon, and such. Kids literature can also be thought of as a method of communication for anyone that needs to talk to kids. Institutions, government, public service, editorial, advertising, and beyond. Join the SCBWI. https://www.randmcollective.com/3dillustration daily 0.75 2020-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607472492330-AQT2XP4O72O8H70JO28F/eyecubesstacked.jpg 3Dillustration - Digital sculpting overview I was at a writers talk and someone from the audience asked for advice, they wanted to try writing but they didn’t know how to start? One of the authors replied “Start writing … Edit later.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607404882291-FMNWZDKGJTC8X44YNPIU/add.gif 3Dillustration - Addition Use the standard brush to sculpt shapes just like you would when sculpting with clay. ZBrush adds volume as you draw upon the surface of a shape. The brushes are pressure sensitive and you can adjust the size and sharpness of the brush. It’s easier to sculpt and build up larger areas of form if you start with lower resolution shapes that have a small polygon count. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607404983434-V4MKU6N9H9DQ2LU0UQ1A/subtract.gif 3Dillustration - Subtraction Holding the option key while using sculpting tools enables you to carve into the surface of a shape. As you build out the form by adding and subtracting its a good idea to work with as small a resolution as possible. Once you have the basic forms established you can subdivide the polygons to give you a higher resolution which will allow you to achieve sharper details. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607407130241-LPB7ZZMVZYPH4CXXVPI7/pinch.gif 3Dillustration - Moving and Pinching Using the move tool is useful in shaping sculpted areas such as the bridge of the nose or nostrils. You can pinch, fold, and compress forms together and create sharper angles, creases, and folds. When working with lower poly forms the move tool is great for flattening or expanding out shapes. When working at higher poly counts you can create sharp details such as creases in the skin or defining the planes of the face. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607444918526-MF1QOSCV87SZGF9FDL3L/inflate.gif 3Dillustration - Inflate Inflating is like blowing up a balloon with polygons. It is used to manipulate the existing mesh which can fill out and build upon existing sculpted elements while retaining the underlying form. Using a variety of tools can facilitate a range of mark making which can make sculpting quicker and easier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607450017520-S27RB46VCMMUXROM3LIX/smooth.gif 3Dillustration - Smoothing Holding the shift key while using the sculpt tool allows the artist to smooth out shapes as you sculpt. Drawing into a sculpture can start out pretty raw, with this tool you can smooth out the shapes, planes, and textures (or lumps!) on your model. This is pressure sensitive and reductive which shrinks the polymesh so it takes a light touch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607453385776-LJJBS6U0KN5ES06O7BQQ/mask3.gif 3Dillustration - Masking Holding the command key while moving the cursor over a sculpt will paint in a mask. Masks can be useful to delineate an area you want to work on without effecting other areas around the mask. It can be also used to create textures and patterns. Holding command and clicking outside the mask reverses it. Holding command and dragging the cursor outside the mask releases it. Holding command and clicking on the mask will blur it And you can sharpen the mask as well if the model has a high enough polycount. Shape mask such as rectangles and ellipses can also be selected in the brush menu for specific shapes (Use shift for a perfect circle!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607454163498-RH9ZDMIEA79ELBD16NW5/deform2.gif 3Dillustration - Deform The deformation menu can be very effective in creating custom shapes or blocking in a shape. For instance using the Size control to change a sphere to an oval when creating a face. Or using the Taper to create tea drop or cone shapes. Shapes can be deformed via the x,y, or z axis or in combination. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607447019269-XRDEWH0WMD4BXPWLRKFE/cut.gif 3Dillustration - Clipping Cutting tools such as Clip Curve can be used to cut out areas. It can be tricky to get the hang of clipping, you have to cut the tool in a certain direction and you can only cut up too, but not over, the largest circumference of an object. It is actived by selecting the desired clip tool and by press ctrl + shift while clicking and dragging the cursor in the desired direction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607450279846-D58NCQBRNCYYIAGUZHGM/combined.gif 3Dillustration - Combining Shapes Combining forms is important in working on shapes separately and differentiating forms as you sculpt. For instance a nose, and ears can be sculpted separately as subtools and combined later when putting on the final touches - which would allow you to resize or move the individual element as you sculpt. Also shapes can be saved as ZTools and reused in other sculptures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607455571698-DV7R3VU75M9N8ZQB2F3E/zshapes2.gif 3Dillustration - ZSphere ZSpheres is a ZBrush tool that can be used to create a rudimentary mannequin for building the basic structure of a character or creature design. ZSpheres are initiated by selecting them in the tools menu. Click and dragging on top of a ZSphere adds another ZSphere. Click and dragging while holding the control key will extend out the ZSphere to create an extension/appendage. Clicking anywhere along the extension will add another ZSphere to create a joint for example. Adapted or Unified skins can be made out of these and sculpted like any other 3D mesh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607450680032-3P2ZGDE5P90XB8H35A1V/qcube2.gif 3Dillustration - ZModeler and QCube QCubes can be an easy and effective way to make buildings, vehicles, and other mechanical or geometric objects. Starting from a basic mesh shape such as a sphere, go to the initialize menu to transform the mesh to a QCube. Select the PolyF menu button along the righthand side artboard menu to see the polyforms on the QCube. Select the ZModeler brush and drag the faces of the cube to extend and add cubes. Hold the option key to select multiple cubes. Drag from the edges of a cube to subdivide the cubes into smaller portions (horizontal or vertical). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607472492330-AQT2XP4O72O8H70JO28F/eyecubesstacked.jpg 3Dillustration - Digital sculpting overview I was at a writers talk and someone from the audience asked for advice, they wanted to try writing but they didn’t know how to start? One of the authors replied “Start writing … Edit later.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607404882291-FMNWZDKGJTC8X44YNPIU/add.gif 3Dillustration - Addition Use the standard brush to sculpt shapes just like you would when sculpting with clay. ZBrush adds volume as you draw upon the surface of a shape. The brushes are pressure sensitive and you can adjust the size and sharpness of the brush. It’s easier to sculpt and build up larger areas of form if you start with lower resolution shapes that have a small polygon count. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607404983434-V4MKU6N9H9DQ2LU0UQ1A/subtract.gif 3Dillustration - Subtraction Holding the option key while using sculpting tools enables you to carve into the surface of a shape. As you build out the form by adding and subtracting its a good idea to work with as small a resolution as possible. Once you have the basic forms established you can subdivide the polygons to give you a higher resolution which will allow you to achieve sharper details. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607407130241-LPB7ZZMVZYPH4CXXVPI7/pinch.gif 3Dillustration - Moving and Pinching Using the move tool is useful in shaping sculpted areas such as the bridge of the nose or nostrils. You can pinch, fold, and compress forms together and create sharper angles, creases, and folds. When working with lower poly forms the move tool is great for flattening or expanding out shapes. When working at higher poly counts you can create sharp details such as creases in the skin or defining the planes of the face. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607444918526-MF1QOSCV87SZGF9FDL3L/inflate.gif 3Dillustration - Inflate Inflating is like blowing up a balloon with polygons. It is used to manipulate the existing mesh which can fill out and build upon existing sculpted elements while retaining the underlying form. Using a variety of tools can facilitate a range of mark making which can make sculpting quicker and easier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607450017520-S27RB46VCMMUXROM3LIX/smooth.gif 3Dillustration - Smoothing Holding the shift key while using the sculpt tool allows the artist to smooth out shapes as you sculpt. Drawing into a sculpture can start out pretty raw, with this tool you can smooth out the shapes, planes, and textures (or lumps!) on your model. This is pressure sensitive and reductive which shrinks the polymesh so it takes a light touch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607453385776-LJJBS6U0KN5ES06O7BQQ/mask3.gif 3Dillustration - Masking Holding the command key while moving the cursor over a sculpt will paint in a mask. Masks can be useful to delineate an area you want to work on without effecting other areas around the mask. It can be also used to create textures and patterns. Holding command and clicking outside the mask reverses it. Holding command and dragging the cursor outside the mask releases it. Holding command and clicking on the mask will blur it And you can sharpen the mask as well if the model has a high enough polycount. Shape mask such as rectangles and ellipses can also be selected in the brush menu for specific shapes (Use shift for a perfect circle!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607454163498-RH9ZDMIEA79ELBD16NW5/deform2.gif 3Dillustration - Deform The deformation menu can be very effective in creating custom shapes or blocking in a shape. For instance using the Size control to change a sphere to an oval when creating a face. Or using the Taper to create tea drop or cone shapes. Shapes can be deformed via the x,y, or z axis or in combination. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607447019269-XRDEWH0WMD4BXPWLRKFE/cut.gif 3Dillustration - Clipping Cutting tools such as Clip Curve can be used to cut out areas. It can be tricky to get the hang of clipping, you have to cut the tool in a certain direction and you can only cut up too, but not over, the largest circumference of an object. It is actived by selecting the desired clip tool and by press ctrl + shift while clicking and dragging the cursor in the desired direction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607450279846-D58NCQBRNCYYIAGUZHGM/combined.gif 3Dillustration - Combining Shapes Combining forms is important in working on shapes separately and differentiating forms as you sculpt. For instance a nose, and ears can be sculpted separately as subtools and combined later when putting on the final touches - which would allow you to resize or move the individual element as you sculpt. Also shapes can be saved as ZTools and reused in other sculptures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607455571698-DV7R3VU75M9N8ZQB2F3E/zshapes2.gif 3Dillustration - ZSphere ZSpheres is a ZBrush tool that can be used to create a rudimentary mannequin for building the basic structure of a character or creature design. ZSpheres are initiated by selecting them in the tools menu. Click and dragging on top of a ZSphere adds another ZSphere. Click and dragging while holding the control key will extend out the ZSphere to create an extension/appendage. Clicking anywhere along the extension will add another ZSphere to create a joint for example. Adapted or Unified skins can be made out of these and sculpted like any other 3D mesh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607450680032-3P2ZGDE5P90XB8H35A1V/qcube2.gif 3Dillustration - ZModeler and QCube QCubes can be an easy and effective way to make buildings, vehicles, and other mechanical or geometric objects. Starting from a basic mesh shape such as a sphere, go to the initialize menu to transform the mesh to a QCube. Select the PolyF menu button along the righthand side artboard menu to see the polyforms on the QCube. Select the ZModeler brush and drag the faces of the cube to extend and add cubes. Hold the option key to select multiple cubes. Drag from the edges of a cube to subdivide the cubes into smaller portions (horizontal or vertical). https://www.randmcollective.com/school daily 0.75 2020-12-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607569326168-R1XE421NUWP7O61KVABE/1.jpg School - Colouring and Line https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607569326862-4PVWP4EIZI52C9F4PCP3/2.jpg School - Drawing from Life https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607569675287-SH8P2PBBDIE71FNGIZ58/3.jpg School - Shape and Character https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607570551198-NTB8PQA419K07YQ0KPOK/4.jpg School - Meaning and Play https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607572314749-U9QAK4YYRU6AD6XWLMWR/5.jpg School - Inner Voice https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607570550980-TW9ROUDBMFLBX5PBHLNK/6.jpg School - Characters in Action https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607570550442-0EWYHAT8U23O346MK2YY/7.jpg School - Contrast and Ground https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607570550121-1UD8KH25NTDZCXQ092DD/8.jpg School - Juxtaposition https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607570549044-BRWZ4T8JZXQA54ES0IUK/9.jpg School - Art as Lifestyle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607571522565-0EBCDVU0JE31CZSJINNO/10.jpg School - Kids Lit Industry https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1607571605935-1Q9WQ17E7PLKBKXTSDNF/11.jpg School - 3D Illustration https://www.randmcollective.com/perspective daily 0.75 2024-01-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e5e8d34d-7352-4108-aa91-4aa182c22836/perspective_pointofview.jpg Perspective - changed my point of view For most of my artistic life I avoided perspective like the plague, only putting the minimal amount required. But about five years ago something changed. Several things actually. The first I really began to appreciate how perspective and point of view could add so much emotional storytelling to an illustration. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/14bd18c5-8cc3-4777-84c5-5f7dbaba145a/perspective_observe.jpg Perspective - observe The first thing that happened is I started looking at the world around me. Appreciating the places and stories that were right in my neighborhood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/18a90fd2-03d5-4521-b5c5-619f37da5f71/perspective_technology.jpg Perspective - technology I never really understand perspective all that well. I had intuitive control and knowledge of how it worked. But a working knowledge is very different and requires a lot of time and practice, ie. hard work. But as mentioned I hated perspective, it was too hard. Procreate changed that, the perspective grids were so easy once I started using them that perspective became a no brainer to do. And by doing it so much, I also gained a strong working knowledge to make doing perspective free hand easy enough that it became enjoyable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/50c1e1c6-c443-4643-a4dd-f72f51cac3d4/perspective_uni.jpg Perspective - looked at things differently As I looked at the world around me, I also looked at how perspective was used by other artists and how it could be used in my own. Most of my work has been drawn at eye level, years of drawing. But once I started experimenting with point of view and perspective in my drawings, not only did the environments change, but how I drew characters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a2dcfb81-dd52-4054-8be9-8af3c685eb08/perspective_play.jpg Perspective - play Another thing I did was give up. Give up on taking myself and my work so seriously. I started thinking of it as a game or fun time. That allowed me to loosen up and just experiment and try things. Use some perspective without worrying if I was doing it right. Funny thing, once I did that I began to draw perspective better. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c51d6c64-e9ab-4252-a44d-1c6dd42a6eac/perspective_bees.jpg Perspective - perspective is everywhere Once I started using perspective more, I realized it could help all my drawing, including organic settings such as forests. Trees are in perspective just as much as buildings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/637cd77e-3744-445c-b7aa-4b52737f3a3e/perspective_story.jpg Perspective - telling a story Perhaps the biggest inspiration for using perspective was seeing how well it could add to storytelling, drama, and emotions in a picture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1b2fdc9d-a334-4a64-9dfe-acf4689d4626/perspective_multiples.jpg Perspective - multiply Sometimes even using perspective grids is a bit time consuming. Using a complex human made object like a bridge can take a lot of time. Building a model and just moving it in perspective and taking screen shots to use as reference is a real life saver. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5521378a-7776-440d-964c-d71da1e6ff13/perspective_complex.jpg Perspective - complex shapes And complex shapes in perspective are still difficult and take forever. The brain energy saved using a 3d model to define multiple perspective point is an environment or character makes a big difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1610996373062-MQ03FDO2HY28GUO2UCGR/tetrissettings.jpg Perspective - convincing not perfect I recently read an article that discussed how perfectionism can be a very negative trait which can lead to difficulties in work and life. When you’re doing these drawings try to avoid to fall into this trap. As you draw remember it is a process and it’s about learning to get better, try not to expect instant gratification. Some tips in drawing perspective: Start at a basic level by working with simplified shapes. Just eyeball your perspective at first and keep your vanishing points farther away with one of them off the page. Get in the habit of thinking of every object being pinched smaller and tapering as it moves away. Imagine the drawings as futuristic cities or space ports – eventually they can actually be used for future drawings. Challenge yourself by gradually increasing the difficulty level, try different mediums, lighting, and points of view for example. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1610990078404-3XAMX6HD5GJBJ35ML5Q0/funblocks.jpg Perspective - gamification Not unlike parking semi trucks, some people are good with spacial reasoning, geometry, reading comprehension, data retention, and other helpful skills for drawing in perspective. I’m not good with any of that! But I am pretty good at drawing, so it makes sense that I could learn perspective by drawing a lot of it … right? But man it hurts my brain. Long ago I learned that if I enjoy something I can usually learn it, but if I don’t, forget about it. Gamification is a new word that talks about the idea of applying gaming principles in other contexts. So for instance perhaps I could learn perspective by making a game of it – making it fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1610991197137-ALGDVHA1SVQEESUW5H5P/perspectivesketch1.jpg Perspective - practice, practice, practice … makes perfect. Whenever I try to practice perspective in an applied setting such as drawing from life or for a project I break out in the brain sweats. And I don’t get much practice, like most humans I avoid pain, perspective is a pain. But I enjoy mindless drawing. You might remember this from before coming to art school when you would draw just for the pure joy of it. In my sketchbook I find a lot of joy and relaxation when I draw random, abstracted, or non objective drawings. It’s very peaceful to just follow your pencil’s lead. And I have found this to be a fun and effective way to work on my perspective drawings. In my sketchbook I draw basic geometric shapes in compositions, sometimes completely random, sometimes aligned along a vanishing point like in a video game. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1610995051814-BUFYQJ1IN2EGIN0A0RYZ/tetrissketch.jpg Perspective - shape game As an exercise to get started try playing a game of “Tetris Sketch”. Inspired by the classic video game the idea is to draw geometric shapes in perspective. Initially start with at least 3 shapes that have multiple sides and extrusions. Draw them one by one and have them vanish to completely different vanishing points. Draw freehand for 30 - 45 minutes on a half sheet of paper using line with three values. If you find this fun and can get yourself to do it on a regular basis you’re sure to get more comfortable with drawing perspective. And you can increase the difficulty as you draw by exploring new levels such as drawing all the shapes aligned to a single set of vanishing points, from different points of view, or more extreme perspective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e5e8d34d-7352-4108-aa91-4aa182c22836/perspective_pointofview.jpg Perspective - changed my point of view For most of my artistic life I avoided perspective like the plague, only putting the minimal amount required. But about five years ago something changed. Several things actually. The first I really began to appreciate how perspective and point of view could add so much emotional storytelling to an illustration. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/14bd18c5-8cc3-4777-84c5-5f7dbaba145a/perspective_observe.jpg Perspective - observe The first thing that happened is I started looking at the world around me. Appreciating the places and stories that were right in my neighborhood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/18a90fd2-03d5-4521-b5c5-619f37da5f71/perspective_technology.jpg Perspective - technology I never really understand perspective all that well. I had intuitive control and knowledge of how it worked. But a working knowledge is very different and requires a lot of time and practice, ie. hard work. But as mentioned I hated perspective, it was too hard. Procreate changed that, the perspective grids were so easy once I started using them that perspective became a no brainer to do. And by doing it so much, I also gained a strong working knowledge to make doing perspective free hand easy enough that it became enjoyable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/50c1e1c6-c443-4643-a4dd-f72f51cac3d4/perspective_uni.jpg Perspective - looked at things differently As I looked at the world around me, I also looked at how perspective was used by other artists and how it could be used in my own. Most of my work has been drawn at eye level, years of drawing. But once I started experimenting with point of view and perspective in my drawings, not only did the environments change, but how I drew characters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a2dcfb81-dd52-4054-8be9-8af3c685eb08/perspective_play.jpg Perspective - play Another thing I did was give up. Give up on taking myself and my work so seriously. I started thinking of it as a game or fun time. That allowed me to loosen up and just experiment and try things. Use some perspective without worrying if I was doing it right. Funny thing, once I did that I began to draw perspective better. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c51d6c64-e9ab-4252-a44d-1c6dd42a6eac/perspective_bees.jpg Perspective - perspective is everywhere Once I started using perspective more, I realized it could help all my drawing, including organic settings such as forests. Trees are in perspective just as much as buildings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/637cd77e-3744-445c-b7aa-4b52737f3a3e/perspective_story.jpg Perspective - telling a story Perhaps the biggest inspiration for using perspective was seeing how well it could add to storytelling, drama, and emotions in a picture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1b2fdc9d-a334-4a64-9dfe-acf4689d4626/perspective_multiples.jpg Perspective - multiply Sometimes even using perspective grids is a bit time consuming. Using a complex human made object like a bridge can take a lot of time. Building a model and just moving it in perspective and taking screen shots to use as reference is a real life saver. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5521378a-7776-440d-964c-d71da1e6ff13/perspective_complex.jpg Perspective - complex shapes And complex shapes in perspective are still difficult and take forever. The brain energy saved using a 3d model to define multiple perspective point is an environment or character makes a big difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642431123021-R1XHQIR2VGKNTRP76BQI/future1.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642431126275-ROVHDIRBJES1DC2O2SML/future2.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642431125480-0HWYOMG8EIESAI7V68HT/future3.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642431124822-2ZLCFVOM6332ZVECW7L1/future4.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642431123822-IRN4O55GQ76MACOJAYIM/future5.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1610996373062-MQ03FDO2HY28GUO2UCGR/tetrissettings.jpg Perspective - convincing not perfect I recently read an article that discussed how perfectionism can be a very negative trait which can lead to difficulties in work and life. When you’re doing these drawings try to avoid to fall into this trap. As you draw remember it is a process and it’s about learning to get better, try not to expect instant gratification. Some tips in drawing perspective: Start at a basic level by working with simplified shapes. Just eyeball your perspective at first and keep your vanishing points farther away with one of them off the page. Get in the habit of thinking of every object being pinched smaller and tapering as it moves away. Imagine the drawings as futuristic cities or space ports – eventually they can actually be used for future drawings. Challenge yourself by gradually increasing the difficulty level, try different mediums, lighting, and points of view for example. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642424968558-LTJL7UEUP0Z5RBE4U53R/asteroid3.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642424740962-A17J4WAEOD183ALVD9QX/asteroid2.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1610990078404-3XAMX6HD5GJBJ35ML5Q0/funblocks.jpg Perspective - gamification Not unlike parking semi trucks, some people are good with spacial reasoning, geometry, reading comprehension, data retention, and other helpful skills for drawing in perspective. I’m not good with any of that! But I am pretty good at drawing, so it makes sense that I could learn perspective by drawing a lot of it … right? But man it hurts my brain. Long ago I learned that if I enjoy something I can usually learn it, but if I don’t, forget about it. Gamification is a new word that talks about the idea of applying gaming principles in other contexts. So for instance perhaps I could learn perspective by making a game of it – making it fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642421691026-OHYD7XS698GYQQHNH7K6/drawing_tetris.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642421689873-V29QXN381TWLPUQ9VNU7/procreateperspective.jpg Perspective https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1610991197137-ALGDVHA1SVQEESUW5H5P/perspectivesketch1.jpg Perspective - practice, practice, practice … makes perfect. Whenever I try to practice perspective in an applied setting such as drawing from life or for a project I break out in the brain sweats. And I don’t get much practice, like most humans I avoid pain, perspective is a pain. But I enjoy mindless drawing. You might remember this from before coming to art school when you would draw just for the pure joy of it. In my sketchbook I find a lot of joy and relaxation when I draw random, abstracted, or non objective drawings. It’s very peaceful to just follow your pencil’s lead. And I have found this to be a fun and effective way to work on my perspective drawings. In my sketchbook I draw basic geometric shapes in compositions, sometimes completely random, sometimes aligned along a vanishing point like in a video game. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1610995051814-BUFYQJ1IN2EGIN0A0RYZ/tetrissketch.jpg Perspective - shape game As an exercise to get started try playing a game of “Tetris Sketch”. Inspired by the classic video game the idea is to draw geometric shapes in perspective. Initially start with at least 3 shapes that have multiple sides and extrusions. Draw them one by one and have them vanish to completely different vanishing points. Draw freehand for 30 - 45 minutes on a half sheet of paper using line with three values. If you find this fun and can get yourself to do it on a regular basis you’re sure to get more comfortable with drawing perspective. And you can increase the difficulty as you draw by exploring new levels such as drawing all the shapes aligned to a single set of vanishing points, from different points of view, or more extreme perspective. https://www.randmcollective.com/lettering daily 0.75 2026-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/268ad12a-bc2b-4868-ae1a-ab0bdb939d92/letteringheader2.jpg Lettering - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1612322732074-Z24D1X0WZ9HLQICEF5CM/lettering1.jpg Lettering - learning to love lettering Lettering is fun if you think of it as another type of drawing. And just like other types of drawing, getting comfortable with lettering involves purposeful practice. Viewed from the proper perspective, lettering is a bridge between design and illustration. But lettering and typography are not the same. Lettering is hand drawn letters and words, whether created traditionally or digitally. Typography describes arranging type using fonts and forms. For illustrators hand drawn lettering is a gateway to type. By working with lettering in a form that an illustrator is comfortable with, by drawing and painting letters and words, it can be easier to get interested in type. Conversely, hand drawn lettering, digital or otherwise, can be a portal to illustration for graphic designers. By drawing with type, a designer can learn drawing through a medium they are more comfortable with. While serious study is important, it is equally important to allow yourself to play. And purposeful play will help an illustrator appreciate that having fun will facilitate learning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1612323056144-5HOLC3L5CYJ7HOYR2K9X/lettering2.jpg Lettering - get to know your letters Learning to love lettering begins with looking at how illustrators use illustrated words. Take a deeper look, and you might be surprised by how often hand drawn lettering is used in illustration. Below are some examples to get you started. Block Letters- Drawing block letters is a way to start learning to control line weight, spacing, and proportions related to type. Decorative Lettering- Traditional lettering like a drop cap, is a fun way to study and familiarize yourself with illustrated type. Hand Lettering- Calligraphy and hand writing can be pretty rough at first, but will improve when included in daily sketching. Illustrated Letters- Who doesn’t have fond memories of ABC books. Creating characters out of letters is super fun. Words in Pictures- Add text to your illustrations any time you can. Classics such as comicbook sound effects are good practice. Emotive Lettering- Draw how a word feels. Dimensional Type- Can be engaging and a way to practice spacial form, and perspective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642788223394-WLJ87B69RNBW0YI2V68G/sketchbooklettering.jpg Lettering - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/268ad12a-bc2b-4868-ae1a-ab0bdb939d92/letteringheader2.jpg Lettering - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1612322732074-Z24D1X0WZ9HLQICEF5CM/lettering1.jpg Lettering - learning to love lettering Lettering is fun if you think of it as another type of drawing. And just like other types of drawing, getting comfortable with lettering involves purposeful practice. Viewed from the proper perspective, lettering is a bridge between design and illustration. But lettering and typography are not the same. Lettering is hand drawn letters and words, whether created traditionally or digitally. Typography describes arranging type using fonts and forms. For illustrators hand drawn lettering is a gateway to type. By working with lettering in a form that an illustrator is comfortable with, by drawing and painting letters and words, it can be easier to get interested in type. Conversely, hand drawn lettering, digital or otherwise, can be a portal to illustration for graphic designers. By drawing with type, a designer can learn drawing through a medium they are more comfortable with. While serious study is important, it is equally important to allow yourself to play. And purposeful play will help an illustrator appreciate that having fun will facilitate learning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1612323056144-5HOLC3L5CYJ7HOYR2K9X/lettering2.jpg Lettering - get to know your letters Learning to love lettering begins with looking at how illustrators use illustrated words. Take a deeper look, and you might be surprised by how often hand drawn lettering is used in illustration. Below are some examples to get you started. Block Letters- Drawing block letters is a way to start learning to control line weight, spacing, and proportions related to type. Decorative Lettering- Traditional lettering like a drop cap, is a fun way to study and familiarize yourself with illustrated type. Hand Lettering- Calligraphy and hand writing can be pretty rough at first, but will improve when included in daily sketching. Illustrated Letters- Who doesn’t have fond memories of ABC books. Creating characters out of letters is super fun. Words in Pictures- Add text to your illustrations any time you can. Classics such as comicbook sound effects are good practice. Emotive Lettering- Draw how a word feels. Dimensional Type- Can be engaging and a way to practice spacial form, and perspective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1642788223394-WLJ87B69RNBW0YI2V68G/sketchbooklettering.jpg Lettering - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e5e8d34d-7352-4108-aa91-4aa182c22836/perspective_pointofview.jpg Lettering - Word Play I don’t know if you have heard, but play has become the latest innovation in education. No longer does learning have to be painful or a chore. Purposeful play such as drawing words in perspective has not only helped with my lettering skills, it has been an easy way to make drawing in perspective much easier. Mainly because I don’t think about it, I just draw it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9eebb1f6-5610-4be6-9a2e-1fed16909a27/sampleeight_mikekerr.jpg Lettering - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.randmcollective.com/gametheory daily 0.75 2021-03-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779247195-ZLDHUE1DE2P5VTZG25J4/gamespot1.jpg Game Theory - learn the rules So what is illustration? It can be difficult to separate life from work, especially for an artist. But illustration is a business, and it’s helpful to separate it from life, not only for creative success and financial wellbeing, but for mental wellbeing too. Illustration is a service and our illustrations are a product. From the service perspective it is important to recognize that it is not simply our labor that we are selling. And from a product perspective illustration is not necessarily the physical item we are selling, but more often a license to use it. And what is intellectual property? Whether our work appears on a magazine, a box of cereal, in publication, in a game, or online – illustration is intellectual property that we have licensed for a specific use. And good intellectual property can be worth plenty if we respect IP and encourage others to do so too. What that value is depends on a lot of factors such as volume, distribution, audience, demographic, scarcity, application, medium, and more. Illustration = Intellectual Property What is your voice? Are you the type of person that goes to a party and can easily start up a conversation and keep it interesting – or do you sense (or fear) the people you are conversing with are desperately looking for an exit? Just as some people seem to be good starting up a conversation, and keeping it interesting, so it goes with visual communication. Remember high school and the way it was a popularity contest? I’m afraid adult life isn’t that much different! The difference is that as an adult we have more experience, are more self aware, and there are tools and methods of beating the system … if we choose. So how do you beat the system, especially when the odds seem stacked against us? Who is your audience? It is more than just a service and product that makes a business successful. As artists we spend an inordinate amount of time creating content and refining our craft. But we often willfully avoid searching for an audience for our work. This is the doom of most artist. It’s not bad art that scares customers away, look around, there is a great demand for bad art. What dooms artists is they don’t have a stake in the game and no customers at all to deal in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779532729-B6F5RTH2HI4UA16W6S58/gamespot2.jpg Game Theory - stack the deck What is illustration now? Long ago, before social media and the internet gobbled up the hearts and minds of our modern visual culture, a beginning illustrator’s first taste of the real world was very likely to be editorial work. Back then many people read paper printed periodicals called magazines and the publishers that made them commissioned an abundance of images every month. It was a reliable revenue source because of the volume of content published and publishers liked to use beginners to find fresh new voices – it also didn’t pay much so they could take a chance. Now that all that pulp has been replaced with posts on the internet, what now? There is still a small niche of editorial in print and online but it’s a trickle in comparison. But there is a torrent of content on social media and its ilk, and this is very likely where contemporary illustrators get their first taste. Because of the potential direct link to an audience, illustrators can now sell directly to consumers through commissions and direct sales. Types of direct commissions: Character designs, fan art, mini comics, avatars, portraits (people, pets), caricatures, cartoons, lettering, wedding invitations, packaging, identity, environments, landscapes, literary paintings, wildlife, genre, game pitches, book covers, picture books, concept art for game/film/print, music posters, tattoo designs, motion, information, gifts, storyboards, Types of direct sales: Prints, fan art, nature, merchandise, pins, t-shirts, hats, apparel, tote bags, cases, pillows, comics, zines, books, how to/tutorial, surface design, patterns, fabrics, Etsy, Patreon, YouTube, calendars, stationary, screen prints, Risographs, products, information, games, Because the audience and budgets for direct works is generally limited, the revenue stream is often proportionally limited, unless done in a great(er) volume. Becoming an influencer and selling art directly is arguably a completely new career path. But there is still many more methods of illustration and design. Illustration is communication, and while we are communicating in different mediums (mostly digital) nowadays, it’s not unreasonable to suggest that we are communicating more than ever. Which suggests that there is potentially a larger market than ever. If we can figure out how to find and capitalize on that market. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779601442-PCTWA0INKJHJQ06G959Y/gamespot3.jpg Game Theory - shuffle the cards Where is illustration used: Editorial, Conceptual, Corporate, Advertising, Institutional, Nature, Environmental, Cartooning, Caricature, Historical, Science, Educational, Informational, Municipal, Provincial, National, Comic books, Graphic Novels, Zines, Cultural, Character, Mascot, Environment, Texture, Background Painting, Packaging, Lifestyle, Fashion, Apps, Casual Games, AAA games, Animation, Animated Gifs, Motion Graphics, Graphic Design, Branding, Marketing, Social Media, Film, Television, Surface Design, Apparel, Interior Design, Non-profit, Social Awareness, Signage, Entertainment, Restaurant, Travel, Murals, Publishing, Pop Culture, Online fiction, But this is just the broad strokes, there is a lot more fine detail when observed more closely. Creativity is not only what is drawn on the page, but in how you do it, or why. As an example, character design is not just stereotypical post-apocalyptic cowboys – or pin up perfect elven princesses either! There are a myriad of methods, styles, philosophies, ideologies, and approaches to any type of illustration or design. Portfolio Development What does a portfolio need, what will make it unique, different, useful? Where am I headed? What is used in Alberta? In BC, Ontario, or Quebec? Or the USA … Asia, Europe? Do I want a job? Work freelance, or on contract? What can you draw? A portfolio is more than a bunch of pictures, it’s a story … a story of potential. Characters: Representational people, everyday people, idealized people, stylized people, cartoon people, children, teenagers, babies, senior citizens, BIPOC, body types/weight, people from different angles, everyday activity, in action, expressing a range of emotion, happy people, dancing, fashion, archetypes, working, living, different time periods, different cultures, contemporary, corporate, NPC’s, whimsical, literary, serious, real life, zany, animals, Horses(!), Environment: city landscapes, buildings, people interacting with an environment, interacting with other people, walking up a stairwell, opening windows, doors, houses, cars, trucks, bikes, trains, motorcycles, boats, on a river, beach, in a park, trees, flowers, landscaping, winter scenes, desert, rain, storm, night, crossing a bridge, fruits, vegetables, moonlight, sunset, ice world, fire world, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779683706-ESF8W6VD2RDSOBZW67MP/gamespot4.jpg Game Theory - raise the stakes A portfolio is the inciting incident in your story arc, it creates a want or better yet – a need. What are your skills? Perspective, anatomy, atelier figure drawing, applied figure drawing, line, shape, environments, atmospheric perspective, lighting, contrast, point of view, volume, drawing, action, movement, composition, depth, line of action, shading, line quality, bold line, expressive line, hatching, expressive mark making, craft, control, balance, rendering, overlap, silhouette, form, balance, range of motion, exaggeration, tonal value, colour, harmony, focus, hierarchy, design process, typography, lettering, graphic design, design thinking, talking, What technology do you have working knowledge of? Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign, After Effects, Premiere, Final Cut Pro, Procreate, Clip Studio, Zbrush, Blender, Maya, Teams, Website templates, Instagram, other Social Media, Video, Sound, Watercolour, Oil Paints, Gouache, Ink line and or wash, Screen Printing, Cut paper, Sculpture, What kind of stories can you tell? Real life, genre, dramatized, exaggerated, humorous, entertainment, literary, educational, multilayered, deep, challenging, exciting, socially aware, poetic, memes, pop culture, journalistic, editorial, memoir, Types of action: quiet, controlled, expressive, heart felt, threatening, high energy, scary, confused, explosive, tense, supportive, unnatural, interaction Tone of work: Sarcastic, reassuring, challenging, nostalgic, techno, cultural, collaborative, chaos, organized, over the top, attitude, pop culture, intellectual, spiritual, dark, whimsical, unsettling, hip, earthy, Genre’s you’ve worked in? horror, sci-fi, fantasy, western, noir, historical, thriller, romance, spy, dystopian, cyberpunk, steampunk, comedy, slice of life, religious, spiritual, retro futuristic, mythological, superhero, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779760313-99U7T88RRMWI9GEZJJJO/gamespot5.jpg Game Theory - build a deck What is in your portfolio? CHARACTER DESIGN: Representational: Rendered representational, Hand drawn representational, Traditional painted representational, Digital painted representational, Stylized rendered representational, CG/3d representational Animation, CG/3d representational AAA games, Stylized: Graphic/derivative representational motion graphics, Vector shape-based motion graphics, Comic book style representational, simplified/abstracted/primitive, silhouette, Cartoon: Animated broadcast cartoon, Manga/Anime style, North American Comicbook, Low Brow Retro, Rubber hose vintage, Comic strip style, Shape based, Collage, Hand drawn, primitive/naïve, Advertising, based on reference, created from imagination Method: Traditional painted, Traditional drawn, Digital painted, vector, shape, line, 3d Mediums: Entertainment, Movies, Games, Animation, Publishing, Advertising, Corporate, Self-published, Commissioned, Concept, Retail, Comics ENVIRONMENT: Representational: Rendered representational live action, Rendered representational gaming, Urban building, Rural environment, Nature and landscape, Historical, Futuristic, Genre, Concept, 3d modelled, production design, background art for film, Observational, Make believe Stylized: Casual game, Infographic, Shape based vector, Isometric, Simplified 3D modelling, Cartoon: Representational backgrounds, stylized background, background art for animation, Method: Traditional painted, Traditional hand drawn, Digital painted photoshop, lasso, vector, shape, line, Sketch up, Blender, other 3d modelling, based on reference, created from imagination Mediums: Entertainment, Movies, Games, Animation, Publishing, Self-published, commissioned, Concept, Originals, Prints https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779825766-WV8JSV7OCAM2TP6QINZA/gamespot6.jpg Game Theory - pick a card what is your work useful for? COMICBOOKS: Superhero, graphic novel, slice of life, institutional, pitch book, self published, short story, historical, social issue, advertising, corporate, informational, cultural, young adult, kids STORYBOARDS: Live action representational, cartoon, movie, animation, titling, commercials, broadcast, stylized motion graphics, shape, comic book, online, informational, print DESIGN ILLUSTRATION: Graphic user interface, game menu, game icons, inventory, apps, film signage and props, packaging, infographic, product, surface design, apparel, lifestyle, motion graphics, corporate, advertising, lettering ADVERTISING: Campaigns, online/web, social media, print, retail, industry, social, cultural, theatre, music, entertainment, non-profit, MAGAZINE: Editorial, portrait, informational, maps, pattern, sequential, narrative, conceptual, abstract, lettering, icons, CORPORATE: Conceptual, narrative, cartoons, caricatures, how to, information, icons, maps, t-shirts, packaging, product, signage, mural, sequential, brochure, online/web, social media, PUBLISHING: Children’s books, Young Adult, adult fiction, nonfiction, educational, graphic novels, pattern, informational, genre, self-published, small press, independent, literary, poetry, how to, craft, culture, lifestyle, attitude, DIRECT RETAIL: Publishing, prints, custom art, tattoo, stationary, lifestyle, comics, zines, niche, craft, object, social media, educational, tutorial, inspirational, culture, ONLINE: Lifestyle, web comic, influencer, social media, educational, tutorial, Patreon, product, service, collaborative, commission, editorial, advertising, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779247195-ZLDHUE1DE2P5VTZG25J4/gamespot1.jpg Game Theory - learn the rules So what is illustration? It can be difficult to separate life from work, especially for an artist. But illustration is a business, and it’s helpful to separate it from life, not only for creative success and financial wellbeing, but for mental wellbeing too. Illustration is a service and our illustrations are a product. From the service perspective it is important to recognize that it is not simply our labor that we are selling. And from a product perspective illustration is not necessarily the physical item we are selling, but more often a license to use it. And what is intellectual property? Whether our work appears on a magazine, a box of cereal, in publication, in a game, or online – illustration is intellectual property that we have licensed for a specific use. And good intellectual property can be worth plenty if we respect IP and encourage others to do so too. What that value is depends on a lot of factors such as volume, distribution, audience, demographic, scarcity, application, medium, and more. Illustration = Intellectual Property What is your voice? Are you the type of person that goes to a party and can easily start up a conversation and keep it interesting – or do you sense (or fear) the people you are conversing with are desperately looking for an exit? Just as some people seem to be good starting up a conversation, and keeping it interesting, so it goes with visual communication. Remember high school and the way it was a popularity contest? I’m afraid adult life isn’t that much different! The difference is that as an adult we have more experience, are more self aware, and there are tools and methods of beating the system … if we choose. So how do you beat the system, especially when the odds seem stacked against us? Who is your audience? It is more than just a service and product that makes a business successful. As artists we spend an inordinate amount of time creating content and refining our craft. But we often willfully avoid searching for an audience for our work. This is the doom of most artist. It’s not bad art that scares customers away, look around, there is a great demand for bad art. What dooms artists is they don’t have a stake in the game and no customers at all to deal in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779532729-B6F5RTH2HI4UA16W6S58/gamespot2.jpg Game Theory - stack the deck What is illustration now? Long ago, before social media and the internet gobbled up the hearts and minds of our modern visual culture, a beginning illustrator’s first taste of the real world was very likely to be editorial work. Back then many people read paper printed periodicals called magazines and the publishers that made them commissioned an abundance of images every month. It was a reliable revenue source because of the volume of content published and publishers liked to use beginners to find fresh new voices – it also didn’t pay much so they could take a chance. Now that all that pulp has been replaced with posts on the internet, what now? There is still a small niche of editorial in print and online but it’s a trickle in comparison. But there is a torrent of content on social media and its ilk, and this is very likely where contemporary illustrators get their first taste. Because of the potential direct link to an audience, illustrators can now sell directly to consumers through commissions and direct sales. Types of direct commissions: Character designs, fan art, mini comics, avatars, portraits (people, pets), caricatures, cartoons, lettering, wedding invitations, packaging, identity, environments, landscapes, literary paintings, wildlife, genre, game pitches, book covers, picture books, concept art for game/film/print, music posters, tattoo designs, motion, information, gifts, storyboards, Types of direct sales: Prints, fan art, nature, merchandise, pins, t-shirts, hats, apparel, tote bags, cases, pillows, comics, zines, books, how to/tutorial, surface design, patterns, fabrics, Etsy, Patreon, YouTube, calendars, stationary, screen prints, Risographs, products, information, games, Because the audience and budgets for direct works is generally limited, the revenue stream is often proportionally limited, unless done in a great(er) volume. Becoming an influencer and selling art directly is arguably a completely new career path. But there is still many more methods of illustration and design. Illustration is communication, and while we are communicating in different mediums (mostly digital) nowadays, it’s not unreasonable to suggest that we are communicating more than ever. Which suggests that there is potentially a larger market than ever. If we can figure out how to find and capitalize on that market. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779601442-PCTWA0INKJHJQ06G959Y/gamespot3.jpg Game Theory - shuffle the cards Where is illustration used: Editorial, Conceptual, Corporate, Advertising, Institutional, Nature, Environmental, Cartooning, Caricature, Historical, Science, Educational, Informational, Municipal, Provincial, National, Comic books, Graphic Novels, Zines, Cultural, Character, Mascot, Environment, Texture, Background Painting, Packaging, Lifestyle, Fashion, Apps, Casual Games, AAA games, Animation, Animated Gifs, Motion Graphics, Graphic Design, Branding, Marketing, Social Media, Film, Television, Surface Design, Apparel, Interior Design, Non-profit, Social Awareness, Signage, Entertainment, Restaurant, Travel, Murals, Publishing, Pop Culture, Online fiction, But this is just the broad strokes, there is a lot more fine detail when observed more closely. Creativity is not only what is drawn on the page, but in how you do it, or why. As an example, character design is not just stereotypical post-apocalyptic cowboys – or pin up perfect elven princesses either! There are a myriad of methods, styles, philosophies, ideologies, and approaches to any type of illustration or design. Portfolio Development What does a portfolio need, what will make it unique, different, useful? Where am I headed? What is used in Alberta? In BC, Ontario, or Quebec? Or the USA … Asia, Europe? Do I want a job? Work freelance, or on contract? What can you draw? A portfolio is more than a bunch of pictures, it’s a story … a story of potential. Characters: Representational people, everyday people, idealized people, stylized people, cartoon people, children, teenagers, babies, senior citizens, BIPOC, body types/weight, people from different angles, everyday activity, in action, expressing a range of emotion, happy people, dancing, fashion, archetypes, working, living, different time periods, different cultures, contemporary, corporate, NPC’s, whimsical, literary, serious, real life, zany, animals, Horses(!), Environment: city landscapes, buildings, people interacting with an environment, interacting with other people, walking up a stairwell, opening windows, doors, houses, cars, trucks, bikes, trains, motorcycles, boats, on a river, beach, in a park, trees, flowers, landscaping, winter scenes, desert, rain, storm, night, crossing a bridge, fruits, vegetables, moonlight, sunset, ice world, fire world, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779683706-ESF8W6VD2RDSOBZW67MP/gamespot4.jpg Game Theory - raise the stakes A portfolio is the inciting incident in your story arc, it creates a want or better yet – a need. What are your skills? Perspective, anatomy, atelier figure drawing, applied figure drawing, line, shape, environments, atmospheric perspective, lighting, contrast, point of view, volume, drawing, action, movement, composition, depth, line of action, shading, line quality, bold line, expressive line, hatching, expressive mark making, craft, control, balance, rendering, overlap, silhouette, form, balance, range of motion, exaggeration, tonal value, colour, harmony, focus, hierarchy, design process, typography, lettering, graphic design, design thinking, talking, What technology do you have working knowledge of? Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign, After Effects, Premiere, Final Cut Pro, Procreate, Clip Studio, Zbrush, Blender, Maya, Teams, Website templates, Instagram, other Social Media, Video, Sound, Watercolour, Oil Paints, Gouache, Ink line and or wash, Screen Printing, Cut paper, Sculpture, What kind of stories can you tell? Real life, genre, dramatized, exaggerated, humorous, entertainment, literary, educational, multilayered, deep, challenging, exciting, socially aware, poetic, memes, pop culture, journalistic, editorial, memoir, Types of action: quiet, controlled, expressive, heart felt, threatening, high energy, scary, confused, explosive, tense, supportive, unnatural, interaction Tone of work: Sarcastic, reassuring, challenging, nostalgic, techno, cultural, collaborative, chaos, organized, over the top, attitude, pop culture, intellectual, spiritual, dark, whimsical, unsettling, hip, earthy, Genre’s you’ve worked in? horror, sci-fi, fantasy, western, noir, historical, thriller, romance, spy, dystopian, cyberpunk, steampunk, comedy, slice of life, religious, spiritual, retro futuristic, mythological, superhero, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779760313-99U7T88RRMWI9GEZJJJO/gamespot5.jpg Game Theory - build a deck What is in your portfolio? CHARACTER DESIGN: Representational: Rendered representational, Hand drawn representational, Traditional painted representational, Digital painted representational, Stylized rendered representational, CG/3d representational Animation, CG/3d representational AAA games, Stylized: Graphic/derivative representational motion graphics, Vector shape-based motion graphics, Comic book style representational, simplified/abstracted/primitive, silhouette, Cartoon: Animated broadcast cartoon, Manga/Anime style, North American Comicbook, Low Brow Retro, Rubber hose vintage, Comic strip style, Shape based, Collage, Hand drawn, primitive/naïve, Advertising, based on reference, created from imagination Method: Traditional painted, Traditional drawn, Digital painted, vector, shape, line, 3d Mediums: Entertainment, Movies, Games, Animation, Publishing, Advertising, Corporate, Self-published, Commissioned, Concept, Retail, Comics ENVIRONMENT: Representational: Rendered representational live action, Rendered representational gaming, Urban building, Rural environment, Nature and landscape, Historical, Futuristic, Genre, Concept, 3d modelled, production design, background art for film, Observational, Make believe Stylized: Casual game, Infographic, Shape based vector, Isometric, Simplified 3D modelling, Cartoon: Representational backgrounds, stylized background, background art for animation, Method: Traditional painted, Traditional hand drawn, Digital painted photoshop, lasso, vector, shape, line, Sketch up, Blender, other 3d modelling, based on reference, created from imagination Mediums: Entertainment, Movies, Games, Animation, Publishing, Self-published, commissioned, Concept, Originals, Prints https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1614779825766-WV8JSV7OCAM2TP6QINZA/gamespot6.jpg Game Theory - pick a card what is your work useful for? COMICBOOKS: Superhero, graphic novel, slice of life, institutional, pitch book, self published, short story, historical, social issue, advertising, corporate, informational, cultural, young adult, kids STORYBOARDS: Live action representational, cartoon, movie, animation, titling, commercials, broadcast, stylized motion graphics, shape, comic book, online, informational, print DESIGN ILLUSTRATION: Graphic user interface, game menu, game icons, inventory, apps, film signage and props, packaging, infographic, product, surface design, apparel, lifestyle, motion graphics, corporate, advertising, lettering ADVERTISING: Campaigns, online/web, social media, print, retail, industry, social, cultural, theatre, music, entertainment, non-profit, MAGAZINE: Editorial, portrait, informational, maps, pattern, sequential, narrative, conceptual, abstract, lettering, icons, CORPORATE: Conceptual, narrative, cartoons, caricatures, how to, information, icons, maps, t-shirts, packaging, product, signage, mural, sequential, brochure, online/web, social media, PUBLISHING: Children’s books, Young Adult, adult fiction, nonfiction, educational, graphic novels, pattern, informational, genre, self-published, small press, independent, literary, poetry, how to, craft, culture, lifestyle, attitude, DIRECT RETAIL: Publishing, prints, custom art, tattoo, stationary, lifestyle, comics, zines, niche, craft, object, social media, educational, tutorial, inspirational, culture, ONLINE: Lifestyle, web comic, influencer, social media, educational, tutorial, Patreon, product, service, collaborative, commission, editorial, advertising, https://www.randmcollective.com/adapting daily 0.75 2022-02-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1645211777336-UE1U7TA8AB7YSALCPI2J/adapt1.jpg Adapting Adapting content is a useful approach in several ways: Quick start- Research and development can be kickstarted because the wealth of content already conceived from an existing intellectual property. And creators may already be familiar with content and not require as time consuming initial research and development in building back story, plot, and characters, etc. Solid foundation to build on- Content is time proven to have a strong foundation and a creator can be confident in its core elements. It can be surprising how much time indecision and lack of direction can occupy, being able to jump right into something you know has proven to be successful could cut down on time lost to procrastination. Established audience- Content will already have a following that can be tapped in for distribution of a new adaptation. Although creators most often focus on content creation, a reality is that finding an audience requires an equal amount of consideration, starting with a built in audience can simplify this. Comparison- Creator can directly compare adaptation to original and previous adaptations which can make for a stronger critical analysis and an outside perspective on how the adaptation is progressing. Also audiences including potential employers and clients will be able to clearly see the creative potential of the adaption and the creators creative abilities. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1645211801095-M0LC3TUX4HE9Z3F0IT1S/adapt2.jpg Adapting Adapting content can be challenging in several ways: Expectations- The audience can have expectations that can be landmines for creators especially with the reverberating power of social media. Likewise the creators can be blinded or handcuffed by their own expectation of what is expected and not be able or willing to push the content in different or new directions. Relevancy- The content can be outdated and express ideas that do not resonate with modern audiences or contain outmoded ideals. Younger audiences in particular may not connect on principle because the content is from a previous generation. Overexposure- Content may have been adapted so many times it feels tired and clichéd no matter how cleverly it is adapted. Copyright- Copyright needs to be researched to established that the content is out of copyright and in the public domain. Creators also need to be wary of adapted content coming from later adaptations of the original content which have their own copyright outside of what is in public domain. Example: Dorothy’s ruby slippers was added in the film adaptation and did not appear in the original stories so that detail would be still copyrighted by the film makers. Trademark is different than copyright and does not expire as long as it is in commercial use, characters can be trademarked indefinitely. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1645211827017-O0L5V89FVYDLQFTQDSMG/adapt3.jpg Adapting Ultimately the creators goal can be defined as developing an adaptation that builds on the original content, makes it relevant to a new audience, and does justice to the original. Generally a faithful adaptation may not be enough unless it is in a medium it has not appeared in before. A creator needs to expand on the original to justify its existence to an audience. At this point in your educational career be wary of creating art for art sake. Academic progress is important, but ultimately the goal is not simply to get better at what you do. You should start considering what you are really looking to achieve or get out of working on these projects. It’s also worthwhile to look beyond your work as labour, the greater value of a creators work is the content they create. The content or intellectual property that a creator creates has value that goes far beyond how it was created. The greater value is how it is used, you need only look at how much larger companies such as Apple or Disney protect and profit of their intellectual property. This goes to a discussion of content creation being a business or service, and content being a product. Finally to take it a step further, a creator might also consider why they are creating content, and its cultural contribution. But that’s an even bigger discussion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1645211777336-UE1U7TA8AB7YSALCPI2J/adapt1.jpg Adapting Adapting content is a useful approach in several ways: Quick start- Research and development can be kickstarted because the wealth of content already conceived from an existing intellectual property. And creators may already be familiar with content and not require as time consuming initial research and development in building back story, plot, and characters, etc. Solid foundation to build on- Content is time proven to have a strong foundation and a creator can be confident in its core elements. It can be surprising how much time indecision and lack of direction can occupy, being able to jump right into something you know has proven to be successful could cut down on time lost to procrastination. Established audience- Content will already have a following that can be tapped in for distribution of a new adaptation. Although creators most often focus on content creation, a reality is that finding an audience requires an equal amount of consideration, starting with a built in audience can simplify this. Comparison- Creator can directly compare adaptation to original and previous adaptations which can make for a stronger critical analysis and an outside perspective on how the adaptation is progressing. Also audiences including potential employers and clients will be able to clearly see the creative potential of the adaption and the creators creative abilities. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1645211801095-M0LC3TUX4HE9Z3F0IT1S/adapt2.jpg Adapting Adapting content can be challenging in several ways: Expectations- The audience can have expectations that can be landmines for creators especially with the reverberating power of social media. Likewise the creators can be blinded or handcuffed by their own expectation of what is expected and not be able or willing to push the content in different or new directions. Relevancy- The content can be outdated and express ideas that do not resonate with modern audiences or contain outmoded ideals. Younger audiences in particular may not connect on principle because the content is from a previous generation. Overexposure- Content may have been adapted so many times it feels tired and clichéd no matter how cleverly it is adapted. Copyright- Copyright needs to be researched to established that the content is out of copyright and in the public domain. Creators also need to be wary of adapted content coming from later adaptations of the original content which have their own copyright outside of what is in public domain. Example: Dorothy’s ruby slippers was added in the film adaptation and did not appear in the original stories so that detail would be still copyrighted by the film makers. Trademark is different than copyright and does not expire as long as it is in commercial use, characters can be trademarked indefinitely. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1645211827017-O0L5V89FVYDLQFTQDSMG/adapt3.jpg Adapting Ultimately the creators goal can be defined as developing an adaptation that builds on the original content, makes it relevant to a new audience, and does justice to the original. Generally a faithful adaptation may not be enough unless it is in a medium it has not appeared in before. A creator needs to expand on the original to justify its existence to an audience. At this point in your educational career be wary of creating art for art sake. Academic progress is important, but ultimately the goal is not simply to get better at what you do. You should start considering what you are really looking to achieve or get out of working on these projects. It’s also worthwhile to look beyond your work as labour, the greater value of a creators work is the content they create. The content or intellectual property that a creator creates has value that goes far beyond how it was created. The greater value is how it is used, you need only look at how much larger companies such as Apple or Disney protect and profit of their intellectual property. This goes to a discussion of content creation being a business or service, and content being a product. Finally to take it a step further, a creator might also consider why they are creating content, and its cultural contribution. But that’s an even bigger discussion. https://www.randmcollective.com/context daily 0.75 2021-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1615396965333-GDPA0A4MF05C5I9WB9IT/context1.jpg Context - Innovations in Visual Metaphor I’m an illustrator from the golden age of editorial illustration, a period that ostensibly ended with the coming of the internet. A big thing at that time was conceptual illustration. It’s hard to imagine now the innumerably vast number of light bulbs, piggy banks, dollar signs, and other visual clutter that was used during that hedonistic period of visual metaphor. And I was a serial offender. To this day I cannot fully wash clean my conscience from the permanent acrylic ink stained guilt. When I think back to this time of convoluted, obtuse, and obfuscated communication it’s hard to wrap my head around why we did it. What were we thinking … or overthinking? Was it simply an attempt to look smart, or a global conspiracy to build an elite intelligentsia? Was it a mass delusion, a group psychosis, or were we just really bored? Why didn’t we just draw what we mean? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1615396987477-RMX8LT5V7TRFYR6PBU46/context2.jpg Context Now I know better. Gone are the mind numbing days of getting lost in a rabbit hole of twisted and cliched thinking. But that doesn’t mean I’ve stopped using visual metaphor. Once I was able to remove myself from the cult of conceptual overthinking, using visual metaphor became a lot clearer and easier. How? By putting it into context … literally. I figured out that if you put any illustration into a specified context it acts as a visual metaphor. Here is an example. Say I am commissioned to illustrate an article that talks about the future of something. Technology, society, whatever. In the old days I would be desperately scouring our collective consciousness for something that symbolizes the future. But now, I just draw the future. Whatever I want it to be, whatever I want to draw really. A person in space, a space port, space gate, spaceship, or space whatever. Then all I have to do is take my drawing of a spaceship travelling through a space port and combine it with some text that talks about innovation (or the future of whatever) and the juxtaposition of the text and image creates a visual metaphor through simple association. This works in any context, want to communicate teamwork? Draw your favorite team sport and put it in context. How about growth, any drawing with flora or gardening put in context would communicate the idea just fine! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1615396965333-GDPA0A4MF05C5I9WB9IT/context1.jpg Context - Innovations in Visual Metaphor I’m an illustrator from the golden age of editorial illustration, a period that ostensibly ended with the coming of the internet. A big thing at that time was conceptual illustration. It’s hard to imagine now the innumerably vast number of light bulbs, piggy banks, dollar signs, and other visual clutter that was used during that hedonistic period of visual metaphor. And I was a serial offender. To this day I cannot fully wash clean my conscience from the permanent acrylic ink stained guilt. When I think back to this time of convoluted, obtuse, and obfuscated communication it’s hard to wrap my head around why we did it. What were we thinking … or overthinking? Was it simply an attempt to look smart, or a global conspiracy to build an elite intelligentsia? Was it a mass delusion, a group psychosis, or were we just really bored? Why didn’t we just draw what we mean? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1615396987477-RMX8LT5V7TRFYR6PBU46/context2.jpg Context Now I know better. Gone are the mind numbing days of getting lost in a rabbit hole of twisted and cliched thinking. But that doesn’t mean I’ve stopped using visual metaphor. Once I was able to remove myself from the cult of conceptual overthinking, using visual metaphor became a lot clearer and easier. How? By putting it into context … literally. I figured out that if you put any illustration into a specified context it acts as a visual metaphor. Here is an example. Say I am commissioned to illustrate an article that talks about the future of something. Technology, society, whatever. In the old days I would be desperately scouring our collective consciousness for something that symbolizes the future. But now, I just draw the future. Whatever I want it to be, whatever I want to draw really. A person in space, a space port, space gate, spaceship, or space whatever. Then all I have to do is take my drawing of a spaceship travelling through a space port and combine it with some text that talks about innovation (or the future of whatever) and the juxtaposition of the text and image creates a visual metaphor through simple association. This works in any context, want to communicate teamwork? Draw your favorite team sport and put it in context. How about growth, any drawing with flora or gardening put in context would communicate the idea just fine! https://www.randmcollective.com/portfolio daily 0.75 2025-03-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/8c11848f-73da-4725-a6ef-37b8b16032f3/parlourtricks.jpg Portfolio - seeing is believing “What is illustration?” Is no longer a straightforward answer. Not unlike asking what is art? It depends. And depending on an individual’s perspective and context the answers can vary greatly. Changes brought about through cultural and technological adaptation have evolved illustration into a something different, and something more. A better question might be, “What is to you?” A portfolio can be a temporary destination and goal to take measure of your place in the world. But it’s not a plateau. Better to think of it as a map of the road you are traveling. Or something to document your journey. Postcards of where you have been, and brochures suggesting where you are headed next. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ccf05623-a8c0-4a1a-90bb-f7457be73533/rockslide.jpg Portfolio - one step at a time Talking about the business side of illustration can be overwhelming for artists, but it’s easier if you take it one step at a time, as opportunity presents itself, or in bite sized chunks. Whatever metaphor floats your boat, it’ll be less complicated to focus on a single goal as a starting point. For example, ever since I was a kid I wanted to do artwork for Dungeons & Dragons. However, at the time I graduated D&D was not doing well. But there was another game that had become popular which was Magic the Gathering. So after I graduated I focused on building a portfolio of about a half dozen portfolio images with fantasy themes relative to what was on Magic Cards. Then I sent printed promos of a few of the images and a link to my website to the submissions department. I also found some individual editors names through awards annuals and sent them promos too. And they called me back and I got to do some cards. I’ve done this throughout my career, when I wanted to get into editorial illustration I did a half dozen editorial illustrations and added that as a section of my portfolio. Then I wanted to do corporate, so I did some corporate images. And so on. This targeted approach can be effective because of the specificity and the relatively limited costs in creating and promoting work this way. The targets and the way to promote today may be different, but the strategy is just as sound. If I was to approach Wizards of the Coast nowadays I would probably redo some of my cards like “Rockslide” in my current style. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/f4c675fa-5512-43f0-b32e-93a0a9963e45/portfolio.jpg Portfolio - show and tell Start Strong, End Stronger - Begin and end your portfolio with your strongest work, first to engage the audience and later to leave a lasting impression. Pace Your Book - Like any book you want your portfolio to have an interesting story arc and keep the audience reading. Tell Your Side Of The Story - It’s show and tell. Include snippets of conversation and exposition so the audience can get to know you, but not too much! Show Enthusiasm - If you are not excited for your work, who will be. Be your best cheerleader. Fake it until you make it. A Living Document - A portfolio is a journey not a plateau, it is a snapshot of a moment in time. But time keeps moving forward, and so should your work. Keep Up To Date - A portfolio is a make work project. If you don’t have new work to show, make up work for yourself. Idle hands are the devil’s playground – so get playing. Easy To Maintain - Use a platform that is easy to use. Don’t give procrastination any openings. No Filler - Put only work that you want to do, otherwise guaranteed you’ll draw a bad card. And only put in work that you are happy with. Your work is judged by the weakest link. A Portfolio Should Draw You In - The goal of a portfolio is to engage an audience. Each showing should be curated for the intended audience. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/db9d3a85-1a82-41af-bfbc-e557e9c12b60/beaverproduct.jpg Portfolio - Eager Beaver As her name suggests, Eager Beaver’s true talent is the effort she puts into everything she does. Eager Beaver likes to get things done. She isn’t afraid of asking questions, jumping in the deep end, or getting her hands dirty. Eager Beaver can be relied on to show up, and others notice and appreciate that about her. That doesn’t mean Eager Beaver is perfect, eagerness sometimes gets her in trouble. And it is hard work. She has to practice at it like any other skill. Also it doesn’t pay off every time, she has had to learn some patience, and a bit of a thick skin. They say there are no wrong questions, but some can be embarrassing! Still she keeps on showing up and putting in the effort, and it gets her where she needs to be. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5ee2ec3e-5e05-422e-88b1-075da33efb02/beeproduct.jpg Portfolio - Wanna Bee Ambition has a bad reputation, but like anything it depends on how far you take it. Wannabee wants to get somewhere, and he wants to go as far as he can go. But he’s learned the hard way that he has limits. Still, he keeps trying to stretch those limits. In his mind he also wants to get there fast, which isn’t a bad thing theoretically. He doesn’t want to miss out, or miss his chance. But he tries to strike a balance, and to have patience. It’s good to be ambitious and build momentum, but also the Wannabee wants to enjoy the race and keep it real. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/13eda536-755c-4f43-b3e4-4749894ac2b5/owlproduct.jpg Portfolio - Know It Owl Know It Owl loves information. Loves looking for it and finding it. Loves organizing, arranging it, and sharing information. And in the right situations that love of information is an incredible tool. In art school Know It Owl excelled because of their ability and interest in research and knowledge. It made the foundations of their work deeper, and the fundamentals stronger. But as with everything it is a double edged sword. Sometimes knowing too much can hold the Know It Owl back and be a little to comfortable in what they know. Then again, what do they know! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7cb17d92-ffb8-4540-864a-a0fb443ece60/bearproduct.jpg Portfolio - Bear Minimum To be honest, Bear had went to art school because she was not sure where else she should go. She liked to make art, more than doing math that was for sure! Bear hoped that at art school she would find a direction, or at least wander a little less. Her parents certainly hoped that would happen! After four years she had mostly discovered what she did not want to do – not specifically what she should be doing. Her teacher said this was a good thing, she was young and had time to find herself. School had given Bear some maps to follow. And that was the joy of a creative life – the journey and discovery. Bear figured it would lead somewhere, it had gotten her this far. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619012168709-JTEXSO7XOC6BXCM1NK0A/ingredients1.jpg Portfolio - A Living Document A portfolio should be forever evolving. Changing as our inner self grows through experience, experimentation, and practice. Or adapting to the world on the outside as technology and popular culture inexorably transforms it. It doesn’t have to be big changes. It can be a natural and organic process and done at whatever pace we can keep up with. We can fear change but it’s only a big problem if it is sudden or unexpected. Having a portfolio that is a living, growing document will give our art purpose and forward momentum, and put us in a better position to absorb any future shocks. Update regularly and set a schedule of when you will add new work to your portfolio. Better yet, make it a part of your social media lifestyle, and as your own story grows, your work can take on a life of its own as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619012211028-E3FCQZZPGRA8DXPTALOA/ingredients2.jpg Portfolio - Ease of Use Even when we embrace change it can be difficult to maintain if it is even the slightest bit inconvenient. Find a medium that is as easy as possible to use, update, and maintain. Keep your file size as small as possible, I like the largest side of any image to be about 1920 pixels. I think a MacBook is about 2560 pixels wide maximum. Adobe Portfolio and Behance are part of your Adobe software package and are professional looking and relatively easy to use. A dedicate professional Instagram account is effective in presenting work and super easy to use regularly – addictive even. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619012228420-8AFGV84UL2Q79ETCXFHU/ingredients3.jpg Portfolio - Focus on the Work A portfolio is a curated selection of work, a gallery exhibition in virtual space. Choose a platform and design your portfolio so that the work is center stage. Choose a design that is unobtrusive and lightly frames and organizes your content, don’t let it upstage it! Try to showcase a bare minimum of a 12-16 images. A bit more is better to give a healthy sampling of your work. But no filler! Try not to fill your portfolio with work that is not up to your standards. Or shows work you’re not particularly interested in doing. Also try to show the range of your work and be wary of too much repetition. Pace the work, one system that is recommended is a post and rail method. Put the strongest works at regular intervals like the posts in a fence. To strengthen and support the rest of the work. Start your portfolio with your strongest image. And end strong too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619012252635-7F07879DS0WHPXPOF4U5/ingredients4.jpg Portfolio - Tell a Story A portfolio can have a unique personality, an attitude even. It should be interesting in some way, perhaps exciting, thought provoking, beautiful, informative, or fun. It shouldn’t be taken for granted or just thrown together if we can help it. Consider what story your work is telling about you, and what experience you are presenting with your portfolio. Organize your work like chapters in a story – your story. You can arrange them in categories based on themes. That way you will clearly introduce what you are interested in doing, and others can more easily find what they might be interested in from your work. Your first portfolio can start as a short, improvised story. Telling the story of where you are now, and suggest where you might be headed. And as that story is written over time , pages and chapters can be added to fill out the narrative. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619013015508-FROE3VTZQYOZDQIJV12A/ingredients5.jpg Portfolio - Sooner, is better, than Later It seems like the human condition, especially an artist’s condition, is that we are forever in pursuit of perfection – or running from imperfection. We perpetually feel like we are not ready, or our work is not where we want it to be. Here is a little industry secret … you will never be ready, and your work will never be where you want it to be! We humans are purpose built to never be satisfied, as though it is hard wired to keep us on our toes, and forever striving for more. So start showing your portfolio right now, there is never going to be a better time – certainly not a perfect time. It’s also good practice. Portfolio building is like any other skill, it needs iterative practice to get good at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619013036327-K5W5NE5HG0WFJYL6O8VL/ingredients6.jpg Portfolio - Humble Pie Numerous poems, films, songs have been written about artists and their craft. How many have been written about plumbers or accountants? However, the reality and life of a designer may be more closely recognizable to that of the plumber or an accountant. As we likewise offer a service and a product just like those more mundane pursuits. Art has been so heavily romanticized and idealized that it can be detrimental to the creative health, and pocketbook of an artist. Every business professional follows similar processes, including artists. Study business. Read books on it, check out some tutorials, watch videos, take courses, or observe and consider how your favorite businesses work and succeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619098137857-O5J8AKHQ2VD8PQ108SQ0/ingredients7.jpg Portfolio - Just Business An illustrator or designer in Canada is viewed as a sole proprietorship. This is an automatic designation once you start receiving payment for work performed or products sold. My dad ran a business when I was a kid. He sold, installed, and repaired overhead doors. I run my business exactly the same as he did. I sell, create, and license artwork. Like my dad, this is the way I do business: - I network and market my work. - I quote jobs that come my way. - I contract to do work. - I perform a service and/or provide a product. - I charge based on usage, not only by the hour. - I invoice the client and do the bookkeeping. - I make sure I get paid. - I deduct the expenses from what I pay in taxes. - Repeat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619099797071-MG8O33MBT9ZZECTWVVAG/ingredients8.jpg Portfolio - Getting to Know You A portfolio is not only about the images, illustration is a service industry so it is about the person making the art too. Your art tells quite a bit about you. What you are interested in, your creative range, your attention to detail, what you value, and such. This helps others decide if they want to work with you, but there is still a question of trust, I want your work, but do I want to work with you? Trust can be built by showing your process for some projects. Choose some case studies to show your creative process and how you think and iterate creatively. Finally, don’t forget to include the basics, an about page with contact information. Also consider adding a personal statement, share something about yourself that tells something about your person (not something personal). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/8c11848f-73da-4725-a6ef-37b8b16032f3/parlourtricks.jpg Portfolio - seeing is believing “What is illustration?” Is no longer a straightforward answer. Not unlike asking what is art? It depends. And depending on an individual’s perspective and context the answers can vary greatly. Changes brought about through cultural and technological adaptation have evolved illustration into a something different, and something more. A better question might be, “What is to you?” A portfolio can be a temporary destination and goal to take measure of your place in the world. But it’s not a plateau. Better to think of it as a map of the road you are traveling. Or something to document your journey. Postcards of where you have been, and brochures suggesting where you are headed next. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ccf05623-a8c0-4a1a-90bb-f7457be73533/rockslide.jpg Portfolio - one step at a time Talking about the business side of illustration can be overwhelming for artists, but it’s easier if you take it one step at a time, as opportunity presents itself, or in bite sized chunks. Whatever metaphor floats your boat, it’ll be less complicated to focus on a single goal as a starting point. For example, ever since I was a kid I wanted to do artwork for Dungeons & Dragons. However, at the time I graduated D&D was not doing well. But there was another game that had become popular which was Magic the Gathering. So after I graduated I focused on building a portfolio of about a half dozen portfolio images with fantasy themes relative to what was on Magic Cards. Then I sent printed promos of a few of the images and a link to my website to the submissions department. I also found some individual editors names through awards annuals and sent them promos too. And they called me back and I got to do some cards. I’ve done this throughout my career, when I wanted to get into editorial illustration I did a half dozen editorial illustrations and added that as a section of my portfolio. Then I wanted to do corporate, so I did some corporate images. And so on. This targeted approach can be effective because of the specificity and the relatively limited costs in creating and promoting work this way. The targets and the way to promote today may be different, but the strategy is just as sound. If I was to approach Wizards of the Coast nowadays I would probably redo some of my cards like “Rockslide” in my current style. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/f4c675fa-5512-43f0-b32e-93a0a9963e45/portfolio.jpg Portfolio - show and tell Start Strong, End Stronger - Begin and end your portfolio with your strongest work, first to engage the audience and later to leave a lasting impression. Pace Your Book - Like any book you want your portfolio to have an interesting story arc and keep the audience reading. Tell Your Side Of The Story - It’s show and tell. Include snippets of conversation and exposition so the audience can get to know you, but not too much! Show Enthusiasm - If you are not excited for your work, who will be. Be your best cheerleader. Fake it until you make it. A Living Document - A portfolio is a journey not a plateau, it is a snapshot of a moment in time. But time keeps moving forward, and so should your work. Keep Up To Date - A portfolio is a make work project. If you don’t have new work to show, make up work for yourself. Idle hands are the devil’s playground – so get playing. Easy To Maintain - Use a platform that is easy to use. Don’t give procrastination any openings. No Filler - Put only work that you want to do, otherwise guaranteed you’ll draw a bad card. And only put in work that you are happy with. Your work is judged by the weakest link. A Portfolio Should Draw You In - The goal of a portfolio is to engage an audience. Each showing should be curated for the intended audience. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/db9d3a85-1a82-41af-bfbc-e557e9c12b60/beaverproduct.jpg Portfolio - Eager Beaver As her name suggests, Eager Beaver’s true talent is the effort she puts into everything she does. Eager Beaver likes to get things done. She isn’t afraid of asking questions, jumping in the deep end, or getting her hands dirty. Eager Beaver can be relied on to show up, and others notice and appreciate that about her. That doesn’t mean Eager Beaver is perfect, eagerness sometimes gets her in trouble. And it is hard work. She has to practice at it like any other skill. Also it doesn’t pay off every time, she has had to learn some patience, and a bit of a thick skin. They say there are no wrong questions, but some can be embarrassing! Still she keeps on showing up and putting in the effort, and it gets her where she needs to be. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5ee2ec3e-5e05-422e-88b1-075da33efb02/beeproduct.jpg Portfolio - Wanna Bee Ambition has a bad reputation, but like anything it depends on how far you take it. Wannabee wants to get somewhere, and he wants to go as far as he can go. But he’s learned the hard way that he has limits. Still, he keeps trying to stretch those limits. In his mind he also wants to get there fast, which isn’t a bad thing theoretically. He doesn’t want to miss out, or miss his chance. But he tries to strike a balance, and to have patience. It’s good to be ambitious and build momentum, but also the Wannabee wants to enjoy the race and keep it real. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/13eda536-755c-4f43-b3e4-4749894ac2b5/owlproduct.jpg Portfolio - Know It Owl Know It Owl loves information. Loves looking for it and finding it. Loves organizing, arranging it, and sharing information. And in the right situations that love of information is an incredible tool. In art school Know It Owl excelled because of their ability and interest in research and knowledge. It made the foundations of their work deeper, and the fundamentals stronger. But as with everything it is a double edged sword. Sometimes knowing too much can hold the Know It Owl back and be a little to comfortable in what they know. Then again, what do they know! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7cb17d92-ffb8-4540-864a-a0fb443ece60/bearproduct.jpg Portfolio - Bear Minimum To be honest, Bear had went to art school because she was not sure where else she should go. She liked to make art, more than doing math that was for sure! Bear hoped that at art school she would find a direction, or at least wander a little less. Her parents certainly hoped that would happen! After four years she had mostly discovered what she did not want to do – not specifically what she should be doing. Her teacher said this was a good thing, she was young and had time to find herself. School had given Bear some maps to follow. And that was the joy of a creative life – the journey and discovery. Bear figured it would lead somewhere, it had gotten her this far. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619012168709-JTEXSO7XOC6BXCM1NK0A/ingredients1.jpg Portfolio - A Living Document A portfolio should be forever evolving. Changing as our inner self grows through experience, experimentation, and practice. Or adapting to the world on the outside as technology and popular culture inexorably transforms it. It doesn’t have to be big changes. It can be a natural and organic process and done at whatever pace we can keep up with. We can fear change but it’s only a big problem if it is sudden or unexpected. Having a portfolio that is a living, growing document will give our art purpose and forward momentum, and put us in a better position to absorb any future shocks. Update regularly and set a schedule of when you will add new work to your portfolio. Better yet, make it a part of your social media lifestyle, and as your own story grows, your work can take on a life of its own as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619012211028-E3FCQZZPGRA8DXPTALOA/ingredients2.jpg Portfolio - Ease of Use Even when we embrace change it can be difficult to maintain if it is even the slightest bit inconvenient. Find a medium that is as easy as possible to use, update, and maintain. Keep your file size as small as possible, I like the largest side of any image to be about 1920 pixels. I think a MacBook is about 2560 pixels wide maximum. Adobe Portfolio and Behance are part of your Adobe software package and are professional looking and relatively easy to use. A dedicate professional Instagram account is effective in presenting work and super easy to use regularly – addictive even. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619012228420-8AFGV84UL2Q79ETCXFHU/ingredients3.jpg Portfolio - Focus on the Work A portfolio is a curated selection of work, a gallery exhibition in virtual space. Choose a platform and design your portfolio so that the work is center stage. Choose a design that is unobtrusive and lightly frames and organizes your content, don’t let it upstage it! Try to showcase a bare minimum of a 12-16 images. A bit more is better to give a healthy sampling of your work. But no filler! Try not to fill your portfolio with work that is not up to your standards. Or shows work you’re not particularly interested in doing. Also try to show the range of your work and be wary of too much repetition. Pace the work, one system that is recommended is a post and rail method. Put the strongest works at regular intervals like the posts in a fence. To strengthen and support the rest of the work. Start your portfolio with your strongest image. And end strong too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619012252635-7F07879DS0WHPXPOF4U5/ingredients4.jpg Portfolio - Tell a Story A portfolio can have a unique personality, an attitude even. It should be interesting in some way, perhaps exciting, thought provoking, beautiful, informative, or fun. It shouldn’t be taken for granted or just thrown together if we can help it. Consider what story your work is telling about you, and what experience you are presenting with your portfolio. Organize your work like chapters in a story – your story. You can arrange them in categories based on themes. That way you will clearly introduce what you are interested in doing, and others can more easily find what they might be interested in from your work. Your first portfolio can start as a short, improvised story. Telling the story of where you are now, and suggest where you might be headed. And as that story is written over time , pages and chapters can be added to fill out the narrative. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619013015508-FROE3VTZQYOZDQIJV12A/ingredients5.jpg Portfolio - Sooner, is better, than Later It seems like the human condition, especially an artist’s condition, is that we are forever in pursuit of perfection – or running from imperfection. We perpetually feel like we are not ready, or our work is not where we want it to be. Here is a little industry secret … you will never be ready, and your work will never be where you want it to be! We humans are purpose built to never be satisfied, as though it is hard wired to keep us on our toes, and forever striving for more. So start showing your portfolio right now, there is never going to be a better time – certainly not a perfect time. It’s also good practice. Portfolio building is like any other skill, it needs iterative practice to get good at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619013036327-K5W5NE5HG0WFJYL6O8VL/ingredients6.jpg Portfolio - Humble Pie Numerous poems, films, songs have been written about artists and their craft. How many have been written about plumbers or accountants? However, the reality and life of a designer may be more closely recognizable to that of the plumber or an accountant. As we likewise offer a service and a product just like those more mundane pursuits. Art has been so heavily romanticized and idealized that it can be detrimental to the creative health, and pocketbook of an artist. Every business professional follows similar processes, including artists. Study business. Read books on it, check out some tutorials, watch videos, take courses, or observe and consider how your favorite businesses work and succeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619098137857-O5J8AKHQ2VD8PQ108SQ0/ingredients7.jpg Portfolio - Just Business An illustrator or designer in Canada is viewed as a sole proprietorship. This is an automatic designation once you start receiving payment for work performed or products sold. My dad ran a business when I was a kid. He sold, installed, and repaired overhead doors. I run my business exactly the same as he did. I sell, create, and license artwork. Like my dad, this is the way I do business: - I network and market my work. - I quote jobs that come my way. - I contract to do work. - I perform a service and/or provide a product. - I charge based on usage, not only by the hour. - I invoice the client and do the bookkeeping. - I make sure I get paid. - I deduct the expenses from what I pay in taxes. - Repeat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1619099797071-MG8O33MBT9ZZECTWVVAG/ingredients8.jpg Portfolio - Getting to Know You A portfolio is not only about the images, illustration is a service industry so it is about the person making the art too. Your art tells quite a bit about you. What you are interested in, your creative range, your attention to detail, what you value, and such. This helps others decide if they want to work with you, but there is still a question of trust, I want your work, but do I want to work with you? Trust can be built by showing your process for some projects. Choose some case studies to show your creative process and how you think and iterate creatively. Finally, don’t forget to include the basics, an about page with contact information. Also consider adding a personal statement, share something about yourself that tells something about your person (not something personal). https://www.randmcollective.com/imperfection daily 0.75 2021-09-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1631627458481-H8PB675I3239IVDHF450/details.jpg Imperfection - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1631627496673-UU51FHWLE46Y1CZCWKUY/sketchbookbike.jpg Imperfection - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1631627564719-LJF3SAS800O0HQV5UMZN/brittania.jpg Imperfection - One last thing. Try to make it fun. A prime objective of this course is to get you to want to draw environments, not because we tell you to. But because you want to, and one of the best ways is to find a way to make it fun. Perhaps make a game of it, or maybe a calming routine. Whatever will work for you. One of our favorites is to go to Brittania Plaza off of Elbow Drive and a short distance south of downtown. We get ice cream a Village and walk a block west to cliffs overlooking the bow river valley. There is lot’s to see and draw there, and even more walking down the hill to the river and Sandy Beach. We have many more routes we like to go and draw. Along the hill above Sunnyside, Harvey Passage and the Bird Sanctuary in Inglewood, even Riley Park below AU Arts is a favorite for me, I love packing a sandwich and having a picnic drawing session there. Go where is convenient for you, and will feel comfortable. Draw lots, but take it easy, don’t try too hard, or be held back by expectation. Enjoy yourself and appreciate your immaculate imperfection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1631627458481-H8PB675I3239IVDHF450/details.jpg Imperfection - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1631627496673-UU51FHWLE46Y1CZCWKUY/sketchbookbike.jpg Imperfection - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1631627564719-LJF3SAS800O0HQV5UMZN/brittania.jpg Imperfection - One last thing. Try to make it fun. A prime objective of this course is to get you to want to draw environments, not because we tell you to. But because you want to, and one of the best ways is to find a way to make it fun. Perhaps make a game of it, or maybe a calming routine. Whatever will work for you. One of our favorites is to go to Brittania Plaza off of Elbow Drive and a short distance south of downtown. We get ice cream a Village and walk a block west to cliffs overlooking the bow river valley. There is lot’s to see and draw there, and even more walking down the hill to the river and Sandy Beach. We have many more routes we like to go and draw. Along the hill above Sunnyside, Harvey Passage and the Bird Sanctuary in Inglewood, even Riley Park below AU Arts is a favorite for me, I love packing a sandwich and having a picnic drawing session there. Go where is convenient for you, and will feel comfortable. Draw lots, but take it easy, don’t try too hard, or be held back by expectation. Enjoy yourself and appreciate your immaculate imperfection. https://www.randmcollective.com/exhibition1 daily 0.75 2021-10-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633504954757-W9PLRRQUPJ6BW5FCB9CM/sketchexhibit1.jpg exhibition1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633504954039-RURJWO3E3Z9ZPJYLNN5R/sketchexhibit2.jpg exhibition1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633504954323-NQ4G20IV32GPGIWMX1JY/sketchexhibit3.jpg exhibition1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633500060735-BV2ATF7GZ4VRQLUOM0SC/sketchexhibit4.jpg exhibition1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633500061029-7RHHV6Q29ETPQ5092A7S/sketchexhibit5.jpg exhibition1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633500061501-D28C4NDM9TJ8AOCSOR8G/sketchexhibit6.jpg exhibition1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633504129267-CKMX3DJP2LOH53K4HMT1/sketchexhibit7.jpg exhibition1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633503956803-OO0N892J2GRYK5OB6OWZ/sketchexhibit8.jpg exhibition1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1633503918871-S3AO6A6357IJN24HH2HA/sketchexhibit9.jpg exhibition1 https://www.randmcollective.com/grounded daily 0.75 2021-10-14 https://www.randmcollective.com/thelittlebookofbigwhatifs daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634778042056-CZBAH85TQI5UU6MUHMT5/whatif1.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - What if …you turned the page? Every day is filled with opportunities to wonder . . . what if? In this charming book of big questions for little readers, New York Times bestselling creator Renata Liwska explores scenarios that span the spectrum from silly to serious, gently examining both the anxieties and curiosities of everyday life. Wondering what might happen helps expand our imaginations, whether the options are humorous or thought-provoking—or both! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634778073073-WIULZZ92P029WKNWWGBX/whatif2.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - From School Library Journal Liwska places her cast of endearing animal characters in a variety of scenarios that encourage readers to contemplate various "what if" situations. The open-ended queries and tender, soft-edged artwork operate in tandem to depict familiar circumstances with whimsical, imagination-stirring possibilities … the book can open discussion about the infinite possibilities presented by life, the power to make individual choices, and how children can begin to chart their way through each and every day. A sweet and thoughtful selection for individual and small group sharing. -Joy Fleishhacker, Pikes Peak Library District, Colorado Springs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634778101247-9OOM5Q9WBIGIY44HKE0L/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - What if your imagination runs wild? New York Times bestselling creator Renata Liwska explores “what if” scenarios from silly to serious, examining the curiosities of everyday life and celebrating the power of imagination. Ideal for children 3-7 who are stuck inside or learning to cope with new uncertainties, The Little Book of Big What-Ifs is perfect for fans of I Wish You More and The Quiet Book. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634778042056-CZBAH85TQI5UU6MUHMT5/whatif1.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - The Little Book of Big What If’s Written by Renata Liwska What if … you turned the page? Every day is filled with opportunities to wonder . . . what if? In this charming book of big questions for little readers, New York Times bestselling creator Renata Liwska explores scenarios that span the spectrum from silly to serious, gently examining both the anxieties and curiosities of everyday life. Wondering what might happen helps expand our imaginations, whether the options are humorous or thought-provoking—or both! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634778073073-WIULZZ92P029WKNWWGBX/whatif2.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - From School Library Journal Liwska places her cast of endearing animal characters in a variety of scenarios that encourage readers to contemplate various "what if" situations. The open-ended queries and tender, soft-edged artwork operate in tandem to depict familiar circumstances with whimsical, imagination-stirring possibilities … the book can open discussion about the infinite possibilities presented by life, the power to make individual choices, and how children can begin to chart their way through each and every day. A sweet and thoughtful selection for individual and small group sharing. -Joy Fleishhacker, Pikes Peak Library District, Colorado Springs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634778101247-9OOM5Q9WBIGIY44HKE0L/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - What if your imagination runs wild? New York Times bestselling creator Renata Liwska explores “what if” scenarios from silly to serious, examining the curiosities of everyday life and celebrating the power of imagination. Ideal for children 3-7 who are stuck inside or learning to cope with new uncertainties, The Little Book of Big What-Ifs is perfect for fans of I Wish You More and The Quiet Book. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg TheLittleBookOfBigWhatIfs - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/placestobe daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779154081-T7WMONRTCICIBD1TRFKD/places1.jpg PlacesToBe - Places to be seen With an elegant simplicity, this picture book celebrates all our wide-ranging emotions—and the adventures that await us each day. We have so many places to be! Places to be loud and lovely and scared and jubilant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779173255-O0YSTJKE74ELSALR1EBL/places3.jpg PlacesToBe - Places to be heard “Funny and gentle” -- Kirkus Reviews “This winning read-aloud can be used to encourage friendship in young children.” -- School Library Journal “A sweet and gentle contrast to Seuss’ Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” -- Booklist https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779095618-3KVQGOLZBZ7HGZKCZZH2/placestobe.jpg PlacesToBe - Places to be together From the award-winning, bestselling Mac Barnett and Renata Liwska comes a classic and luminous book perfect for fans of The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood and Waiting by Kevin Henkes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779154081-T7WMONRTCICIBD1TRFKD/places1.jpg PlacesToBe - Places To Be Written by Mac Barnett and published by Balzar + Bray Places to be seen. With an elegant simplicity, this picture book celebrates all our wide-ranging emotions—and the adventures that await us each day. We have so many places to be! Places to be loud and lovely and scared and jubilant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779173255-O0YSTJKE74ELSALR1EBL/places3.jpg PlacesToBe - Places to be heard “Funny and gentle” -- Kirkus Reviews “This winning read-aloud can be used to encourage friendship in young children.” -- School Library Journal “A sweet and gentle contrast to Seuss’ Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” -- Booklist https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779095618-3KVQGOLZBZ7HGZKCZZH2/placestobe.jpg PlacesToBe - Places to be together From the award-winning, bestselling Mac Barnett and Renata Liwska comes a classic and luminous book perfect for fans of The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood and Waiting by Kevin Henkes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg PlacesToBe - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg PlacesToBe - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg PlacesToBe - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg PlacesToBe - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg PlacesToBe - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg PlacesToBe - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg PlacesToBe - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg PlacesToBe - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg PlacesToBe - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg PlacesToBe - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg PlacesToBe - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg PlacesToBe - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg PlacesToBe - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg PlacesToBe - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg PlacesToBe - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg PlacesToBe - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg PlacesToBe - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg PlacesToBe - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/craftyllama daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779823784-HBSQ6YYF7K61WCL5WZ2S/crafty2.jpg CraftyLlama - Something special Llama loves to make things. It doesn't matter what, really--something special, something lovely. Beaver loves to make things, too. But he likes things to be useful. On this lovely day, Llama is inspired. She is having fun making things, like gifts for her friends. And soon many of her friends are inspired right along with her. But Beaver needs to think about what Llama and the other animals are making. What useful thing can he do with this day? With lots of craftiness and fun, this is a delightful story about how something lovely can be useful, too, and how the best gifts are the ones that bring us together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779856637-OGEZ1HX64RQ5T2UCWAW5/llama2.jpg CraftyLlama - Something lovely From School Library Journal The message of this fun story is simple and pertinent: If you do things that make you happy, you are bound to share that happiness with others. The illustrations are cozy and delightful, just like the text. A fun and inspiring read-aloud for student makers and a first purchase for elementary school libraries.-Meghan Oppelt, Whitehall School District, WI https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634780002384-NP4ECPVXIH0GCPUQRE3H/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg CraftyLlama - Something fun “Soft-edged, whimsically anthropomorphized animals are downright adorable. . . Young readers . . . will see that despite having different outlooks, there are many ways to work together. A sweet meditation on the value of creating, regardless of use.” ―Kirkus Reviews "The illustrations are cozy and delightful, just like the text. A fun and inspiring read-aloud for student makers." - School Library Journal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779823784-HBSQ6YYF7K61WCL5WZ2S/crafty2.jpg CraftyLlama - Crafty Llama Written by Mike Kerr and published by Bloomsbury Something Special! Llama loves to make things. It doesn't matter what, really--something special, something lovely. Beaver loves to make things, too. But he likes things to be useful. On this lovely day, Llama is inspired. She is having fun making things, like gifts for her friends. And soon many of her friends are inspired right along with her. But Beaver needs to think about what Llama and the other animals are making. What useful thing can he do with this day? With lots of craftiness and fun, this is a delightful story about how something lovely can be useful, too, and how the best gifts are the ones that bring us together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634779856637-OGEZ1HX64RQ5T2UCWAW5/llama2.jpg CraftyLlama - Something lovely From School Library Journal The message of this fun story is simple and pertinent: If you do things that make you happy, you are bound to share that happiness with others. The illustrations are cozy and delightful, just like the text. A fun and inspiring read-aloud for student makers and a first purchase for elementary school libraries.-Meghan Oppelt, Whitehall School District, WI https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634780002384-NP4ECPVXIH0GCPUQRE3H/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg CraftyLlama - Something fun “Soft-edged, whimsically anthropomorphized animals are downright adorable. . . Young readers . . . will see that despite having different outlooks, there are many ways to work together. A sweet meditation on the value of creating, regardless of use.” ―Kirkus Reviews "The illustrations are cozy and delightful, just like the text. A fun and inspiring read-aloud for student makers." - School Library Journal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg CraftyLlama - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg CraftyLlama - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg CraftyLlama - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg CraftyLlama - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg CraftyLlama - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg CraftyLlama - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg CraftyLlama - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg CraftyLlama - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg CraftyLlama - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg CraftyLlama - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg CraftyLlama - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg CraftyLlama - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg CraftyLlama - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg CraftyLlama - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg CraftyLlama - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg CraftyLlama - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg CraftyLlama - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg CraftyLlama - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/dormousedreams daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634780956263-XK4B0CSY9EW57O3IRFU8/dormouse2.jpg DormouseDreams - Sweet dreams As Dormouse dreams -- and snores -- his way from winter to spring, he imagines going on fantastical adventures with his best dormouse friend. Whimsical illustrations feature other animals entertaining themselves with dart games, cross-country skiing, flying airplanes, and more while Dormouse hibernates. Readers can also follow the friend's journey to Dormouse's house, where she wakes him up for some real life pleasures, including daydreaming. This is the perfect bedtime book to snuggle up with when spring isn't coming fast enough. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634780661541-BH4B5H2O3GGNATIRG9GM/dormouse3.jpg DormouseDreams - From School Library Journal Wilson's rhyming couplets have a comforting rhythm. Liwska's full spread pencil drawings, digitally layered with warm color, beg for a close reading; every animal's expression is worth a second look, and her method of building texture is interesting and can be easily imitated. A sweet and tender title for one-on-one sharing either at bedtime or while waiting in anticipation for the season to change.—Lisa Lehmuller, Paul Cuffee Maritime Charter School, Providence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634780597714-DUSGDQZEVVHMCC29D8ZG/dormousedreams.jpg DormouseDreams - Publisher’s Weekly With tiny, densely worked pencil strokes and soft hues, Liwska (Waiting for Snow) depicts the winter adventures that unfold as the dormouse slumbers: wolves play, birds rescue a rabbit, skiers race. Wilson’s (Dormouse Dreams) evocative language and sonic punctuation make for a fine readaloud, and Liwska breathes life into the entire forest community, making readers feel as though each creature has its own distinctive character and temperament. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634780956263-XK4B0CSY9EW57O3IRFU8/dormouse2.jpg DormouseDreams - Dormouse Dreams Written by Karma Wilson and published by Disney Hyperion Sweet Dreams … As Dormouse dreams -- and snores -- his way from winter to spring, he imagines going on fantastical adventures with his best dormouse friend. Whimsical illustrations feature other animals entertaining themselves with dart games, cross-country skiing, flying airplanes, and more while Dormouse hibernates. Readers can also follow the friend's journey to Dormouse's house, where she wakes him up for some real life pleasures, including daydreaming. This is the perfect bedtime book to snuggle up with when spring isn't coming fast enough. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634780661541-BH4B5H2O3GGNATIRG9GM/dormouse3.jpg DormouseDreams - From School Library Journal Wilson's rhyming couplets have a comforting rhythm. Liwska's full spread pencil drawings, digitally layered with warm color, beg for a close reading; every animal's expression is worth a second look, and her method of building texture is interesting and can be easily imitated. A sweet and tender title for one-on-one sharing either at bedtime or while waiting in anticipation for the season to change.—Lisa Lehmuller, Paul Cuffee Maritime Charter School, Providence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634780597714-DUSGDQZEVVHMCC29D8ZG/dormousedreams.jpg DormouseDreams - Publisher’s Weekly With tiny, densely worked pencil strokes and soft hues, Liwska (Waiting for Snow) depicts the winter adventures that unfold as the dormouse slumbers: wolves play, birds rescue a rabbit, skiers race. Wilson’s (Dormouse Dreams) evocative language and sonic punctuation make for a fine readaloud, and Liwska breathes life into the entire forest community, making readers feel as though each creature has its own distinctive character and temperament. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg DormouseDreams - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg DormouseDreams - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg DormouseDreams - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg DormouseDreams - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg DormouseDreams - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg DormouseDreams - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg DormouseDreams - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg DormouseDreams - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg DormouseDreams - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg DormouseDreams - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg DormouseDreams - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg DormouseDreams - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg DormouseDreams - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg DormouseDreams - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg DormouseDreams - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg DormouseDreams - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg DormouseDreams - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg DormouseDreams - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/thiswaythatway daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781135802-J7W09Z09J9WYFYSAFTA1/boom2.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Who is perfectly right? The perfect spot is this way! says Boom. The perfect spot is that way!” tweets Twitty. Snot is smartly silent. How will these three friends decide which way to go to find the perfect spot? With humor, wisdom, and perfect storytelling and illustrating pitch, New York Times bestsellers Doreen Cronin and Renata Liwska present a tale of authentic friendship. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781196898-W168NKIJS8QSAZENLLQ3/thiswaythatway.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Library School Journal Boom the bear cub, Twitty the robin; and Snot the snail are back for another adventure as they decide on the perfect spot to spend the day. Boom thinks the perfect spot is "this way" to the beach, where he can jump and splash, while Twitty wants to go "that way" to the mountains to hike and look. Snot brought the snack but keeps quiet as the friends disagree over which way to go. They soon discover that Snot is gone, and a trail of blueberries leads Boom and Twitty to a place they can all enjoy. Liwska's fine pencil illustrations in a subdued color palette are soft, charming, and expressive. VERDICT Readers will enjoy this journey to find the perfect spot.—Sarah Polace, Cuyahoga Public Library System, OH https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781135802-J7W09Z09J9WYFYSAFTA1/boom2.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Boom Snot Twitty This Way That Way Written by Doreen Cronin and published by Viking Books for Young Readers Who is perfectly right? The perfect spot is this way! says Boom. The perfect spot is that way!” tweets Twitty. Snot is smartly silent. How will these three friends decide which way to go to find the perfect spot? With humor, wisdom, and perfect storytelling and illustrating pitch, New York Times bestsellers Doreen Cronin and Renata Liwska present a tale of authentic friendship. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781196898-W168NKIJS8QSAZENLLQ3/thiswaythatway.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Library School Journal Boom the bear cub, Twitty the robin; and Snot the snail are back for another adventure as they decide on the perfect spot to spend the day. Boom thinks the perfect spot is "this way" to the beach, where he can jump and splash, while Twitty wants to go "that way" to the mountains to hike and look. Snot brought the snack but keeps quiet as the friends disagree over which way to go. They soon discover that Snot is gone, and a trail of blueberries leads Boom and Twitty to a place they can all enjoy. Liwska's fine pencil illustrations in a subdued color palette are soft, charming, and expressive. VERDICT Readers will enjoy this journey to find the perfect spot.—Sarah Polace, Cuyahoga Public Library System, OH https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg ThisWayThatWay - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg ThisWayThatWay - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg ThisWayThatWay - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg ThisWayThatWay - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/waitingforsnow daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781470766-GNTB8UF4RADJPBTGZ3VA/snow1.jpg WaitingForSnow - Waiting can be tricky Badger cannot wait one more minute for it to snow. When his friend Hedgehog explains that everything comes in its time, Badger is as unconvinced and impatient as ever. But Badger’s friends have a few tricks up their sleeve to try to get the snow’s attention and distract their pal in the meantime. In the end, Badger sees there’s no trick—only waiting—until at last, it’s time. all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781495620-T3IZ7I2RFEUEFKYEIXFK/waiting2.jpg WaitingForSnow - School Library Journal The digitally colored drawings rely on a somewhat dark but textured palette of soft grays, browns, and blues to reflect the season, and Liwska's critters are adorably rounded. Details such as an assortment of hats, including a shower cap for Vole, make merriment to alleviate the tension. VERDICT A super tonic for the winter blahs, suitable for one-on-one and small group sharing.—Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781538445-3KJYCNZGTV7RGEK7FYS8/waitingforsnow.jpg WaitingForSnow - Quiet, delicate, fuzzy "Quiet, charming, and just plain fun...Kiddos eager for the changing of seasons will easily find kinship among these antsy woodland creatures in this engaging story perfect for a winter-themed story time." —Booklist "Delicate pencil lines show scenes as simultaneously earnest and funny... Snow can't be forced, but this will help ease the wait." —Kirkus "Liwska’s (The Quiet Book) gentle, fuzzy drawings, done in the softest browns and the palest blues, offer the comfort of a beloved stuffed toy." —Publishers Weekly https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781470766-GNTB8UF4RADJPBTGZ3VA/snow1.jpg WaitingForSnow - Waiting For Snow Written by Marsha Diane Arnold and published by HMH Books for Young Readers Waiting can be tricky. Badger cannot wait one more minute for it to snow. When his friend Hedgehog explains that everything comes in its time, Badger is as unconvinced and impatient as ever. But Badger’s friends have a few tricks up their sleeve to try to get the snow’s attention and distract their pal in the meantime. In the end, Badger sees there’s no trick—only waiting—until at last, it’s time. all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781495620-T3IZ7I2RFEUEFKYEIXFK/waiting2.jpg WaitingForSnow - School Library Journal The digitally colored drawings rely on a somewhat dark but textured palette of soft grays, browns, and blues to reflect the season, and Liwska's critters are adorably rounded. Details such as an assortment of hats, including a shower cap for Vole, make merriment to alleviate the tension. VERDICT A super tonic for the winter blahs, suitable for one-on-one and small group sharing.—Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634781538445-3KJYCNZGTV7RGEK7FYS8/waitingforsnow.jpg WaitingForSnow - Quiet, delicate, fuzzy "Quiet, charming, and just plain fun...Kiddos eager for the changing of seasons will easily find kinship among these antsy woodland creatures in this engaging story perfect for a winter-themed story time." —Booklist "Delicate pencil lines show scenes as simultaneously earnest and funny... Snow can't be forced, but this will help ease the wait." —Kirkus "Liwska’s (The Quiet Book) gentle, fuzzy drawings, done in the softest browns and the palest blues, offer the comfort of a beloved stuffed toy." —Publishers Weekly https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg WaitingForSnow - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg WaitingForSnow - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg WaitingForSnow - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg WaitingForSnow - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg WaitingForSnow - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg WaitingForSnow - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg WaitingForSnow - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg WaitingForSnow - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg WaitingForSnow - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg WaitingForSnow - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg WaitingForSnow - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg WaitingForSnow - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg WaitingForSnow - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg WaitingForSnow - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg WaitingForSnow - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg WaitingForSnow - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg WaitingForSnow - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg WaitingForSnow - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/onceuponamemory daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782027076-BAKKSBCFILRRSPU81YNP/memories3.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Does a feather remember? Does a feather remember it once was a bird? Does a book remember it once was a word? A boy is swept away to a world where fantasy and reality come together in surprising and playful ways. From the cake that once was grain to the ocean that once was rain, whimsical before and after scenes offer readers a peek at the world as seen through the eyes of a curious child. Nina Laden's poetic and cleverly woven text is perfectly paired with artist Renata Liwska's captivating illustrations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782056146-PI28SMURS6105KQRFRMD/memory1.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Booklist This poetic ode to memory begins when a feather flutters through an open window into a little boy’s room. As the boy picks up the feather, the text asks, “Does a feather remember it once was . . . a bird?” On the right-hand side of the page, kids will see a barbershop for birds, with feathers on the floor … the text has a lyrical quality, and Liwska (The Quiet Book, 2010) uses white space effectively, and her animal characters, as always, are soft and inviting. Contemplative and poignant. Preschool-Grade 1. --Ann Kelley https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782095089-5DVBIKM7MTV07CCAGUOH/image-asset-1.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Tender and genuine A Bank Street College Children's Book Committee Best Book * "Tender and genuine. These musings on memory and change are thought-provoking, yet the piece also works as a lullaby. Reflective and peaceful."―Kirkus Reviews, starred review "[A] gentle, dreamy picture book...a lyrical series of questions that play with the concept of memory and origins."―School Library Journal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782027076-BAKKSBCFILRRSPU81YNP/memories3.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Once Upon a Memory Written by Nina Laden and published by Little Brown Does a feather remember … Does a feather remember it once was a bird? Does a book remember it once was a word? A boy is swept away to a world where fantasy and reality come together in surprising and playful ways. From the cake that once was grain to the ocean that once was rain, whimsical before and after scenes offer readers a peek at the world as seen through the eyes of a curious child. Nina Laden's poetic and cleverly woven text is perfectly paired with artist Renata Liwska's captivating illustrations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782056146-PI28SMURS6105KQRFRMD/memory1.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Booklist This poetic ode to memory begins when a feather flutters through an open window into a little boy’s room. As the boy picks up the feather, the text asks, “Does a feather remember it once was . . . a bird?” On the right-hand side of the page, kids will see a barbershop for birds, with feathers on the floor … the text has a lyrical quality, and Liwska (The Quiet Book, 2010) uses white space effectively, and her animal characters, as always, are soft and inviting. Contemplative and poignant. Preschool-Grade 1. --Ann Kelley https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782095089-5DVBIKM7MTV07CCAGUOH/image-asset-1.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Tender and genuine A Bank Street College Children's Book Committee Best Book * "Tender and genuine. These musings on memory and change are thought-provoking, yet the piece also works as a lullaby. Reflective and peaceful."―Kirkus Reviews, starred review "[A] gentle, dreamy picture book...a lyrical series of questions that play with the concept of memory and origins."―School Library Journal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg OnceUponaMemory - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg OnceUponaMemory - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg OnceUponaMemory - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg OnceUponaMemory - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/boomsnottwitty daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782572805-G7NB5G3PQAT2NH78PAI1/boom.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - BOOM! Snot… Twitty? Three unlikely friends, and three different ways of being in the world. This simplest of stories is a fable for life https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782540460-CD8FD7UV91IDQASR9Z9J/image-asset.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Serene, Charming, Snuggle "Serene, quietly joyous and utterly life-affirming." —Kirkus, starred review "The illustrations and characters will attract a fair number of fans." —School Library Journal "This charming episode affirms that friends with different personalities can enjoy being together while still doing their own things." —Booklist "[For a] rainy-day snuggle session with a thoughtful child or two." —BCCB https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782572805-G7NB5G3PQAT2NH78PAI1/boom.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - Boom Snot Twitty Written by Doreen Cronin and published by Viking Books for Young Readers Boom! Snot… Twitty? Three unlikely friends, and three different ways of being in the world. This simplest of stories is a fable for life https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634782540460-CD8FD7UV91IDQASR9Z9J/image-asset.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Serene, Charming, Snuggle "Serene, quietly joyous and utterly life-affirming." —Kirkus, starred review "The illustrations and characters will attract a fair number of fans." —School Library Journal "This charming episode affirms that friends with different personalities can enjoy being together while still doing their own things." —Booklist "[For a] rainy-day snuggle session with a thoughtful child or two." —BCCB https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg BoomSnotTwitty - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg BoomSnotTwitty - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/thechristmasquietbook daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783006748-TRA51HI6BUN1ZTRMY5DX/xmasquiet.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - Quiet joys The holidays are filled with joyful noise. But Christmas is sometimes wrapped in quiet: “Searching for presents quiet,” “Getting caught quiet,” and “Hoping for a snow day quiet.” Irresistibly cute, soft colored pencil illustrations of bunnies, bears, and more paint a magical holiday picture indeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783041329-PT9YF95KFE9QYB02Q7T7/christmasquiet1.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - School Library Journal The anticipation a child feels is brought to life as the familiar animals from the previous books (bears, rabbits, porcupines, moles, owls) search quietly for presents, make snow angels, drink cocoa, turn on the lights of a Christmas tree, make a gingerbread house, and write a note to Santa. Liwska's digitally colored pencil illustrations, in a muted palette of soft and soothing earth tones, pair poetically with the simple text. This is an ideal title for use during a winter holiday storytime or for one-on-one cuddling at bedtime.-Diane Olivo-Posner, Los Angeles Public Library https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783083243-UU774ORBSTUFH453H1CA/image-asset-3.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Little pleasures "Little kids will relate to the anticipation of the big night but also to the little pleasures, like making snow angels and enjoying a cup of steaming cocoa." —Booklist "This pleasing companion to The Quiet Book and The Loud Book! explores quiet times of the season." —Horn Book "Especially endearing." —Wall Street Journal A Huffington Post Holiday Book Recommendation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783006748-TRA51HI6BUN1ZTRMY5DX/xmasquiet.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - The Christmas Quiet Book Written by Deborah Underwood and published by HMH Books for Young Readers Quiet Joys. The holidays are filled with joyful noise. But Christmas is sometimes wrapped in quiet: “Searching for presents quiet,” “Getting caught quiet,” and “Hoping for a snow day quiet.” Irresistibly cute, soft colored pencil illustrations of bunnies, bears, and more paint a magical holiday picture indeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783041329-PT9YF95KFE9QYB02Q7T7/christmasquiet1.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - School Library Journal The anticipation a child feels is brought to life as the familiar animals from the previous books (bears, rabbits, porcupines, moles, owls) search quietly for presents, make snow angels, drink cocoa, turn on the lights of a Christmas tree, make a gingerbread house, and write a note to Santa. Liwska's digitally colored pencil illustrations, in a muted palette of soft and soothing earth tones, pair poetically with the simple text. This is an ideal title for use during a winter holiday storytime or for one-on-one cuddling at bedtime.-Diane Olivo-Posner, Los Angeles Public Library https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783083243-UU774ORBSTUFH453H1CA/image-asset-3.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Little pleasures "Little kids will relate to the anticipation of the big night but also to the little pleasures, like making snow angels and enjoying a cup of steaming cocoa." —Booklist "This pleasing companion to The Quiet Book and The Loud Book! explores quiet times of the season." —Horn Book "Especially endearing." —Wall Street Journal A Huffington Post Holiday Book Recommendation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg TheChristmasQuietBook - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg TheChristmasQuietBook - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/theloudbook daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783743966-SP1VYBCEEV7N0XBJ6PYL/loudbook1.jpg TheLoudBook - BANG! CRACKLE! BOO! Just as there are different kinds of quiet, there are also different kinds of loud: good louds (HOORAY!), and bad louds (CRASH!), and accidental louds that make you the center of attention (BURP!). The Loud Book presents all these kid-friendly noises in a way that is sure to make readers CHEER! Now in a padded board edition just perfect for little hands. Pair this with its equally entertaining (but quieter) The Quiet Book. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783685350-YT1KCCQVOJ9SJ4KJMJ7D/loudbook2.jpg TheLoudBook - Kirkus Written with the same grace and economy, the short glimpses of “louds” range from good to bad and every clanging in between. The day starts with “alarm clock loud,” showing little rabbit desperately trying to muffle the sound with a pillow wrapped round his ears. There is also the embarrassing “dropping your lunch tray loud” and the ever-agonizing “candy wrapper loud” (in a quiet theater, of course). But surprisingly, some louds have no sound at all, like the “deafening silence loud” of getting caught doing something wrong. Eschewing noise lines and other dramatic visuals—save for the title and copyright page where the words burst forth at sharp, diagonal angles—Liwska instead shows mouths open in loud roars, boisterous crowds and hands over tortured ears. The text, written in all caps, doesn’t necessarily shout, but it does sneak in an urgent edge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783565844-MEHI09QXL2K30PRGG1HN/image-asset-4.jpeg TheLoudBook - PW Starred Review The colors are a bit brighter and the type is set all in caps, but this sequel to The Quiet Book stars the same gang of fuzzy creatures and is every bit as charming. Liwska's artwork, as always, is noteworthy for its depth and warmth. The expressions on the faces of her animals convey community, even intimacy; they often appear to have been deep in conversation just before being interrupted by a deafening crash. Fans of the first book will be delighted to extend their bedtime reading time with the second, and they'll welcome the chance to pump up the volume. Publishers Weekly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783743966-SP1VYBCEEV7N0XBJ6PYL/loudbook1.jpg TheLoudBook - The Loud Book Written by Deborah Underwood and published by HMH Books for Young Readers Bang! Crackle! Boo! Just as there are different kinds of quiet, there are also different kinds of loud: good louds (HOORAY!), and bad louds (CRASH!), and accidental louds that make you the center of attention (BURP!). The Loud Book presents all these kid-friendly noises in a way that is sure to make readers CHEER! Now in a padded board edition just perfect for little hands. Pair this with its equally entertaining (but quieter) The Quiet Book. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783685350-YT1KCCQVOJ9SJ4KJMJ7D/loudbook2.jpg TheLoudBook - Kirkus Written with the same grace and economy, the short glimpses of “louds” range from good to bad and every clanging in between. The day starts with “alarm clock loud,” showing little rabbit desperately trying to muffle the sound with a pillow wrapped round his ears. There is also the embarrassing “dropping your lunch tray loud” and the ever-agonizing “candy wrapper loud” (in a quiet theater, of course). But surprisingly, some louds have no sound at all, like the “deafening silence loud” of getting caught doing something wrong. Eschewing noise lines and other dramatic visuals—save for the title and copyright page where the words burst forth at sharp, diagonal angles—Liwska instead shows mouths open in loud roars, boisterous crowds and hands over tortured ears. The text, written in all caps, doesn’t necessarily shout, but it does sneak in an urgent edge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634783565844-MEHI09QXL2K30PRGG1HN/image-asset-4.jpeg TheLoudBook - PW Starred Review The colors are a bit brighter and the type is set all in caps, but this sequel to The Quiet Book stars the same gang of fuzzy creatures and is every bit as charming. Liwska's artwork, as always, is noteworthy for its depth and warmth. The expressions on the faces of her animals convey community, even intimacy; they often appear to have been deep in conversation just before being interrupted by a deafening crash. Fans of the first book will be delighted to extend their bedtime reading time with the second, and they'll welcome the chance to pump up the volume. Publishers Weekly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg TheLoudBook - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg TheLoudBook - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg TheLoudBook - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg TheLoudBook - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg TheLoudBook - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg TheLoudBook - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg TheLoudBook - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg TheLoudBook - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg TheLoudBook - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg TheLoudBook - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg TheLoudBook - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg TheLoudBook - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg TheLoudBook - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg TheLoudBook - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg TheLoudBook - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg TheLoudBook - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg TheLoudBook - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg TheLoudBook - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/redwagon daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784283354-PN9SM7AZYU9EYWYAD6ON/redwagon2.jpg RedWagon - Lucy has a list All Lucy wants to do is play with her brand-new, bright red wagon. But her mother has other plans for her-and the wagon. Lucy must go to the market and buy vegetables for dinner. Lucy doesn't want to do chores! But she sets off for the market nonetheless, hauling her red wagon with her. Before long, her ordinary trip becomes a high-seas adventure, a ride through outer space, and a day at the circus. As long as she has her red wagon, not even chores can get in the way of Lucy's fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784313413-B1ATG1QRFV25KLMF1TI5/redwagon3.jpg RedWagon - Booklist, starred review "This title owes its delight to the well-balanced, deadpan disparity between the spare, straightforward text and the increasingly wild scenarios depicted in the digitally colored pencil illustrations. According to the words, the animals climb a hill, weather some rain, load up at the market, regroup after hitting a rock, and return home. The pictures, however, show a different story: along the way, the red wagon transforms from pirate ship to covered wagon to circus caravan to train to rocket ship to truck in detailed scenes children will want to revisit. Preschoolers will recognize the reality-blurring borders of their own made-up worlds; children on the cusp of independent reading will enjoy following the simple, bold-type sentences; and both audiences will hope for future adventures from Lucy and her friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784356616-FV22MNRD0NO1UT4OWMB7/image-asset-2.jpeg RedWagon - A book well travelled This is Renata’s most best selling book and we can only imagine the numerous children who received it alongside a new red wagon. It was also a Dolly Parton Imagination Library Title! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784283354-PN9SM7AZYU9EYWYAD6ON/redwagon2.jpg RedWagon - Red Wagon Written by Renata Liwska and published by Philomel Books Lucy has a list. All Lucy wants to do is play with her brand-new, bright red wagon. But her mother has other plans for her-and the wagon. Lucy must go to the market and buy vegetables for dinner. Lucy doesn't want to do chores! But she sets off for the market nonetheless, hauling her red wagon with her. Before long, her ordinary trip becomes a high-seas adventure, a ride through outer space, and a day at the circus. As long as she has her red wagon, not even chores can get in the way of Lucy's fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784313413-B1ATG1QRFV25KLMF1TI5/redwagon3.jpg RedWagon - Booklist, starred review "This title owes its delight to the well-balanced, deadpan disparity between the spare, straightforward text and the increasingly wild scenarios depicted in the digitally colored pencil illustrations. According to the words, the animals climb a hill, weather some rain, load up at the market, regroup after hitting a rock, and return home. The pictures, however, show a different story: along the way, the red wagon transforms from pirate ship to covered wagon to circus caravan to train to rocket ship to truck in detailed scenes children will want to revisit. Preschoolers will recognize the reality-blurring borders of their own made-up worlds; children on the cusp of independent reading will enjoy following the simple, bold-type sentences; and both audiences will hope for future adventures from Lucy and her friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784356616-FV22MNRD0NO1UT4OWMB7/image-asset-2.jpeg RedWagon - A book well travelled This is Renata’s most best selling book and we can only imagine the numerous children who received it alongside a new red wagon. It was also a Dolly Parton Imagination Library Title! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg RedWagon - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg RedWagon - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg RedWagon - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg RedWagon - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg RedWagon - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg RedWagon - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg RedWagon - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg RedWagon - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg RedWagon - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg RedWagon - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg RedWagon - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg RedWagon - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg RedWagon - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg RedWagon - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg RedWagon - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg RedWagon - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg RedWagon - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg RedWagon - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/littlepanda daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784745412-WVN2AHLQGPVZZGVSH8RZ/panda2.jpg LittlePanda - An original folktale In this charming bookended story, a grandfather panda tells his grandson the tale of a tiger that flew. Soft, cross-hatched illustrations and whimsical telling take the grandson— and the reader—to the misty mountains, where a little panda bear climbs tall trees, munches sweet bamboo, and curls up in his favorite perch to sleep. But when Mother Panda travels in search of bamboo, Little Panda is left alone . . . until he is visited by an unexpected and unusual intruder. What was it his mother told him he should do? This is the perfect story to reassure little ones that parents always return. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784783970-4DCEMMKRALO4DTRCKFBL/littlepanda1.jpg LittlePanda - Soft and gentle "In her authorial debut, Liwska . . . delivers a prime example of unadulterated storytelling . . . In every word, readers can hear the wise, wry voice of a narrator who knows how to hold a child's attention. The illustrations, a combination of pencil and soft digital color, evoke the simplicity of traditional Chinese art and underscore the intimacy of the book's small format." --Publishers Weekly "Liwska's tale is generously imbued with a gentle humor that is echoed in her digitally colored pencil drawings. Keeping the roly-poly black-and-white principals just this side of saccharine is no mean feat, but both text and illustrations are up to the challenge as they unfold with wily deliberations. Much like this whimsical tale, the elegant illustrations hold small surprises for perceptive readers to enjoy." --Kirkus Reviews https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784709437-LFGB8N1JZ320TDKFKZ4X/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg LittlePanda - Write what you know? What about writing what you love? Inspired by hours and hours of watching panda cam and just as many more sketching in her sketchbook. This is a book of love for these rare, precious (and oh so cuddly looking), natural wonders. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784745412-WVN2AHLQGPVZZGVSH8RZ/panda2.jpg LittlePanda - Little Panda Written by Renata Liwska and published by HMH Books for Young Readers An original folktale. In this charming bookended story, a grandfather panda tells his grandson the tale of a tiger that flew. Soft, cross-hatched illustrations and whimsical telling take the grandson— and the reader—to the misty mountains, where a little panda bear climbs tall trees, munches sweet bamboo, and curls up in his favorite perch to sleep. But when Mother Panda travels in search of bamboo, Little Panda is left alone . . . until he is visited by an unexpected and unusual intruder. What was it his mother told him he should do? This is the perfect story to reassure little ones that parents always return. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784783970-4DCEMMKRALO4DTRCKFBL/littlepanda1.jpg LittlePanda - Soft and gentle "In her authorial debut, Liwska . . . delivers a prime example of unadulterated storytelling . . . In every word, readers can hear the wise, wry voice of a narrator who knows how to hold a child's attention. The illustrations, a combination of pencil and soft digital color, evoke the simplicity of traditional Chinese art and underscore the intimacy of the book's small format." --Publishers Weekly "Liwska's tale is generously imbued with a gentle humor that is echoed in her digitally colored pencil drawings. Keeping the roly-poly black-and-white principals just this side of saccharine is no mean feat, but both text and illustrations are up to the challenge as they unfold with wily deliberations. Much like this whimsical tale, the elegant illustrations hold small surprises for perceptive readers to enjoy." --Kirkus Reviews https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634784709437-LFGB8N1JZ320TDKFKZ4X/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg LittlePanda - Write what you know? What about writing what you love? Inspired by hours and hours of watching panda cam and just as many more sketching in her sketchbook. This is a book of love for these rare, precious (and oh so cuddly looking), natural wonders. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg LittlePanda - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg LittlePanda - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg LittlePanda - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg LittlePanda - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg LittlePanda - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg LittlePanda - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg LittlePanda - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg LittlePanda - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg LittlePanda - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg LittlePanda - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg LittlePanda - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg LittlePanda - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg LittlePanda - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg LittlePanda - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg LittlePanda - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg LittlePanda - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg LittlePanda - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg LittlePanda - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/nikolaitheonlybear daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634785592525-IF419NKKMJ54DWEZU9YK/nikolai1.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Play nice Nikolai wonders if anyone who visits will ever choose him, but when a fur-faced man suddenly appears with his wife, Nikolai is thrilled and knows in his heart that the perfect family has finally arrived to take him home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634785628268-V1KUN8G5ALPA259VOAUY/nikolai2.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - School Library Journal Nikolai, the sole bear in a Russian orphanage, doesn't fit in. Because he growls rather than talks and doesn't always "play nice," he has remained in the institution for three years. An American couple, in search of a youngster to love, visits the children's home and becomes acquainted with the cub. The bearded man has the ability to communicate in Bearspeak, while his wife makes Nikolai feel "soft-bearish" inside. All ends happily when the three leave Russia to become a family in the States. Pale tan, brown, and green dominate the soft-hued paintings, and the adults and children are all short with round heads and triangular noses. Read this well-written, attractively laid out bookalong with Eliza Thomas's The Red Blanket (Scholastic, 2004) for tales of cross-cultural adoptions.–Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634785554091-VHWINU48HDKZ6ZATA49T/image-asset-6.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - First! As Renata’s first picture book Nikolai can’t help but have a special spot in her heart. When she first began drawing this book she had mostly been drawing people and she had to do a lot of practice and research to bring the character of Nikolai to life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634785592525-IF419NKKMJ54DWEZU9YK/nikolai1.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Nikolai The Only Bear Written by Barbara Joosse and published by Philomel Play Nice? Nikolai wonders if anyone who visits will ever choose him, but when a fur-faced man suddenly appears with his wife, Nikolai is thrilled and knows in his heart that the perfect family has finally arrived to take him home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634785628268-V1KUN8G5ALPA259VOAUY/nikolai2.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - School Library Journal Nikolai, the sole bear in a Russian orphanage, doesn't fit in. Because he growls rather than talks and doesn't always "play nice," he has remained in the institution for three years. An American couple, in search of a youngster to love, visits the children's home and becomes acquainted with the cub. The bearded man has the ability to communicate in Bearspeak, while his wife makes Nikolai feel "soft-bearish" inside. All ends happily when the three leave Russia to become a family in the States. Pale tan, brown, and green dominate the soft-hued paintings, and the adults and children are all short with round heads and triangular noses. Read this well-written, attractively laid out bookalong with Eliza Thomas's The Red Blanket (Scholastic, 2004) for tales of cross-cultural adoptions.–Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WI https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634785554091-VHWINU48HDKZ6ZATA49T/image-asset-6.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - First! As Renata’s first picture book Nikolai can’t help but have a special spot in her heart. When she first began drawing this book she had mostly been drawing people and she had to do a lot of practice and research to bring the character of Nikolai to life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg NikolaiTheOnlyBear - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/thequietbook daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634786516501-0QHI75UH9NKI994MYQ6P/quietbook3.jpg TheQuietBook - Still quietly relevant All quiet is not created equal. In this irresistibly charming picture book, many different quiet moments are captured, from the anticipation-heavy “Top of the roller coaster quiet” to the shocked-into-silence “First look at your new hairstyle quiet.” The impossibly sweet bears, rabbits, fish, birds, and iguanas are all rendered in soft pencils and colored digitally, and, as in all of the best picture books, the illustrations propel the story far beyond the words. A sure-to-be-a-classic bedtime favorite. Awards: 2011 ALA Notable Children's Book, 2010–2011, New York Times bestseller, 2011 CCBC Choices, 2011 NCTE Notable Children's Trade Book, 2010 New York Times Notable Book, 2010 Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year, 2010 School Library Journal Best Book of the Year https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634786568606-APLQKTD68N7Y9ZCL8FLV/quietbook1.jpg TheQuietBook - Delight, moving, treasure "A delightful and enchanting choice for storytime or sharing one-on-one."—School Library Journal, starred review "The most moving scenes leave space for imagining.'Best friends don't need to talk,' for example, is illustrated with a blissful scene of togetherness that children will relate to their own lives."—Booklist "This treasure of a book—which is appropriately gentle in both its understated text and artwork—catalogues many sorts of quiet that readers will recognize instantly."—Publishers Weekly "Sweet and hypnotizing, but not too simple, Renata Liwska's illustrations give The Quiet Book a sense of magic." —The Huffington Post https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634786618030-U9909GBFCDB2WHQNODCG/image-asset-5.jpeg TheQuietBook - Quietly significant This was the perfect book at the perfect time for Renata. As she was working on it we were thinking it was a such a sweet book and we hoped it would be at least quietly appreciated. But as the book suggests quiet has it’s own significance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634786516501-0QHI75UH9NKI994MYQ6P/quietbook3.jpg TheQuietBook - The Quiet Book Written by Deborah Underwood and published by HMH Books for Young Readers All quiet is not created equal. In this irresistibly charming picture book, many different quiet moments are captured, from the anticipation-heavy “Top of the roller coaster quiet” to the shocked-into-silence “First look at your new hairstyle quiet.” The impossibly sweet bears, rabbits, fish, birds, and iguanas are all rendered in soft pencils and colored digitally, and, as in all of the best picture books, the illustrations propel the story far beyond the words. A sure-to-be-a-classic bedtime favorite. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634786568606-APLQKTD68N7Y9ZCL8FLV/quietbook1.jpg TheQuietBook - Delight, moving, treasure "A delightful and enchanting choice for storytime or sharing one-on-one."—School Library Journal, starred review "The most moving scenes leave space for imagining.'Best friends don't need to talk,' for example, is illustrated with a blissful scene of togetherness that children will relate to their own lives."—Booklist "This treasure of a book—which is appropriately gentle in both its understated text and artwork—catalogues many sorts of quiet that readers will recognize instantly."—Publishers Weekly "Sweet and hypnotizing, but not too simple, Renata Liwska's illustrations give The Quiet Book a sense of magic." —The Huffington Post https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634786618030-U9909GBFCDB2WHQNODCG/image-asset-5.jpeg TheQuietBook - Quietly significant This was the perfect book at the perfect time for Renata. As she was working on it we were thinking it was a such a sweet book and we hoped it would be at least quietly appreciated. But as the book suggests quiet has it’s own significance. Awards: 2011 ALA Notable Children's Book, 2010–2011, New York Times bestseller, 2011 CCBC Choices, 2011 NCTE Notable Children's Trade Book, 2010 New York Times Notable Book, 2010 Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year, 2010 School Library Journal Best Book of the Year https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg TheQuietBook - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg TheQuietBook - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg TheQuietBook - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg TheQuietBook - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg TheQuietBook - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg TheQuietBook - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg TheQuietBook - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg TheQuietBook - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg TheQuietBook - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg TheQuietBook - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg TheQuietBook - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg TheQuietBook - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg TheQuietBook - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg TheQuietBook - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg TheQuietBook - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg TheQuietBook - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg TheQuietBook - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg TheQuietBook - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/drawit daily 0.75 2022-01-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1641990180593-G0I3KDPRZWTDZCOOAICY/designastrator.jpg Draw It - A Happy Medium Drawing is an act, a physical act. An act of doing. Intuitive - Follow your pencil and see where it leads you. Randomize - Take a chance. Roll the dice. Are you feeling lucky? Experimental - See what happens, find those happy accidents. Exploration- Go somewhere new. Try something different. Play - Make a game of it. Are you enjoying yourself? Graphic - Keep it simple. Say more with less. Make a statement. Iterative - Do over. Try again. Save the game and go to the next level. Process - Find a way to make it work for you. Own it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1641990233066-ROJOG3QR6U2D81ZVMP0W/drawit.jpg Draw It - Just Draw It. You’ve been doing this for a while, maybe your whole life. What are you waiting for? You will never be ready, you are ready – now! It’s time to just draw it. Drawing is about doing. Trust yourself, believe in yourself. You don’t think about walking, you just do it. Say something. Draw what you say. It’s not about being the best. Be the best you! It’s not just how you do it – but what, when, where, and why you draw. Be yourself, don’t be afraid, be bold and let it out. Free yourself. Remember when you were a kid and drawing was fun. Well it’s still fun, and you’re good at it now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1641990180593-G0I3KDPRZWTDZCOOAICY/designastrator.jpg Draw It - A Happy Medium Drawing is an act, a physical act. An act of doing. Intuitive - Follow your pencil and see where it leads you. Randomize - Take a chance. Roll the dice. Are you feeling lucky? Experimental - See what happens, find those happy accidents. Exploration- Go somewhere new. Try something different. Play - Make a game of it. Are you enjoying yourself? Graphic - Keep it simple. Say more with less. Make a statement. Iterative - Do over. Try again. Save the game and go to the next level. Process - Find a way to make it work for you. Own it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1641990233066-ROJOG3QR6U2D81ZVMP0W/drawit.jpg Draw It - Just Draw It. You’ve been doing this for a while, maybe your whole life. What are you waiting for? You will never be ready, you are ready – now! It’s time to just draw it. Drawing is about doing. Trust yourself, believe in yourself. You don’t think about walking, you just do it. Say something. Draw what you say. It’s not about being the best. Be the best you! It’s not just how you do it – but what, when, where, and why you draw. Be yourself, don’t be afraid, be bold and let it out. Free yourself. Remember when you were a kid and drawing was fun. Well it’s still fun, and you’re good at it now. https://www.randmcollective.com/perception daily 0.75 2022-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1643034391336-FSRO0FPI3SI3ITSQAADZ/bridge1.jpg Perception https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1643034392034-WT2GJXYWFCML3ONKD5EM/bridge2.jpg Perception https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1643034219167-7N1MX9N3AH1OC9LIGBAM/purr1.jpg Perception https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1643034219749-3J4K3NKTIDIV8C0RY6HR/purr2.jpg Perception https://www.randmcollective.com/wizardpractice daily 0.75 2022-10-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1666185272378-1GWJIY7MBW182UJZPAIA/wizardpractice1.jpg Wizardpractice - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1666186812342-9ULC2QKDMNJ24KN2SRD4/wizardpractice2.jpg Wizardpractice - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1666185323019-6EYZQX08NLCLX8F5I646/wizardpractice3.jpg Wizardpractice - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1666185345508-0RPG4QVPQFT4E80B82D9/wizardpractice4.jpg Wizardpractice - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1666185272378-1GWJIY7MBW182UJZPAIA/wizardpractice1.jpg Wizardpractice - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1666186812342-9ULC2QKDMNJ24KN2SRD4/wizardpractice2.jpg Wizardpractice - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1666185323019-6EYZQX08NLCLX8F5I646/wizardpractice3.jpg Wizardpractice - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1666185345508-0RPG4QVPQFT4E80B82D9/wizardpractice4.jpg Wizardpractice - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.randmcollective.com/rationale1 daily 0.75 2024-02-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e1f1576d-2c4e-47b8-a931-366d13f86838/1_onrocks.jpg rationale1 - On the Rocks The art teacher brought in a folder filled with magazine clippings for the student to study. The first clipping featured an illustration from the sixties, maybe an early Mark English. Lurid brush strokes in red, clashing with a garish yellow; clear evidence that the image was from a previous ‘decadent’ decade. In the background a female figure looks out a window, looking distraught. She is painted in a dark grey silhouette, and is standing with her back to a seated man. He is coloured sparingly in a rich brown monochrome. He is drawn relaxed, laid back, and holding a glass tumbler with whisky and ice, the drink balanced on the arm of a 60’s styled chair. A relationship on the rocks perhaps? The image does its job and wets the art students thirst to read more, but only the illustrated spread is saved, the rest of the article is long gone. The folder was filled with many such lost treasure from a golden era of illustration. Pictures telling stories of scorned lovers, dead beat detectives, reckless race car drivers, or more simple affairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/554f2995-1ca1-46c2-9057-726a7e13e49a/2_photoguy.jpg rationale1 - A S tolen Lunch Next, the teacher brought in a stack of books. Dog eared publications filled with the classics of North American illustration. Rockwell, Leyendecker, and Wyeth most notable among them. Norman Rockwell’s rich characterization of an idealized middle America that never was, J. C. Leyendecker’s nouveau realism idolizing the excesses of the rich. And N.C. Wyeth, defining the fiction of how a pirate would look for generations to come. Illustrated stories of Americana, real and imagined. Both inspiring and daunting for the young art student. He was excited to get started. But then the teacher said no. You can’t draw pictures that way, not anymore. Photography came along and took it all away. The labours of the masters replaced by a click and a flash. Years of experience and an expansive breadth of talent no match for the ease and uncanny reality of technology. The camera ate the illustrators lunch, nearly every crumb. And so what were the modern masters of illustration to do? Soon enough, collectively, or individually they came together with an idea. They asked themselves what is photography unable to do? A camera can’t picture something it doesn’t see. It can’t depict an idea, an abstraction that existed only in the mind. And so came conceptual illustration. It wasn’t exactly new, Rene Magritte had played that card in the fine art game. And the Polish poster artists used metaphor because they feared saying anything outright in a communist state. But it was new to North American illustration and presented a different way of looking at things. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0581f293-eaa2-467a-8972-c1825d8da25f/3_concepteye.jpg rationale1 - Staking a Claim In the 80’s and 90’s conceptual illustration flourished. In editorial, in commerce, in industry, and in culture. Illustration found a new purpose and reason to exist. Symbol and metaphor propagated in abundance. Miniaturized people were a favourite theme. Generic representations of the common business man. Sometimes carrying, other times pushing, often lifting. Holding massive objects that represented something more. Symbols like a beaker for science, a gear for industry, a piggy bank for commerce. Brad Holland was the master of this new medium, Craig Frazier the intellect, and Rafal Olbinski the auteur. They struck gold and mined it for all it was worth. A second golden era of illustration. The young art student, now graduated, joined in on the gold rush. He staked a claim and while he didn’t make his fortune, he was fortunate enough to make a good living illustrating conceptually. Until boom time went bust. With the coming of a new century, technology had a novel trick up its sleeves. It was the internet. In a few short years all the mines were mined out. Magazines, newspapers, print advertising died out or became a shadow of their previous selves. The former student and practitioner, now an art teacher, wondered what was next? He wouldn’t need to worry for long. The industry and art students had already moved onto something new. Creating characters and imagining new worlds that mostly replaced that tired old world of illustration. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1aa15bc5-2565-4945-9b46-349143006431/4_conceptjoystick.jpg rationale1 - Your Move And it wasn’t only technology that had moved on but conceptual thinking itself had been mined to near extinction. Symbols and metaphors were so overused, finding anything new was like finding a needle in a haystack. A few artist hung on, admirably so. Christoph Niemann put up a heroic fight. Liana Finck is a newcomer so clever she makes old ideas feel new. But looking back the art teacher wondered if it was all a fever dream or a mass hysteria. He could hardly remember why he had expended so much energy to say something indirectly, obtusely, when he could have just said it directly, understandably. He thinks back to that folder of magazine clippings filled with old illustrations of straightforward storytelling. Of detectives detecting, or lovers loving. No symbols of magnifying glasses or heart shaped mazes to obscure meaning; just to look clever. So often sliding into cliche, or rendered incomprehensible and impersonal, no matter how ingenious. The art teacher needed to make a move or resign the game. The folder was long gone, lost or purged. So the art teacher tried to go back to the beginning. Walk it off, get out of his mind and back into the world. Draw what he saw and speak plainly about it. But it was hard to shake off an old habit, now a compulsion, to draw a greater meaning. “Why can’t you simply say what you mean?” He asked himself. It took more than a few years for the infection to break. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/8fa3dc9d-05ed-4a48-83d3-a619bdd6c3bb/6_martinigirl.jpg rationale1 - Nothing Stays Dead “Draw what you say.” he asked of his students too. Some of them had caught the fever. And in this new dystopian world, he wondered if trusting others to interpret the meaning of what they were drawing was a good thing? The extremes on both sides were out for blood, sniffing around for the faintest slight. A howl in the digital night to summon an undying horde. Safer to stick to a story, clearly articulated, and maybe more meaningful. This is not to say concept is gone, like mom jeans and vinyl records nothing really stays dead. A few magazines and newspapers have learned to survive, even prosper, in the latest regime. Newer mediums such as motion graphics dip their toe in occasionally. And there are workarounds such as juxtaposition that can say something conceptually without the danger of redundancy. Of course the story doesn’t end there, stories never really end. Once again technology has another trick up its sleeve, AI, artificial intelligence. The imperfection of a person is now competing with the perfection of technology. Years of experience and an expansive breadth of talent no match for the ease and uncanny reality of technology. First the camera, now AI. Hungry to eat the illustrators lunch once again, perhaps every crumb this time? But the art teacher wasn’t worried. Maybe an AI could write a new robot law in the style of Asimov … a robot shall not take a job a human would rather do? Something along those lines, the AI could decide. Or people and AI’s could work together, team up for the better good! Written and illustrated by Mike Kerr ©2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5fbcf41f-3651-4ea7-a41b-2e7ab142135f/robothand.jpg rationale1 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e1f1576d-2c4e-47b8-a931-366d13f86838/1_onrocks.jpg rationale1 - On the Rocks The art teacher brought in a folder filled with magazine clippings for the student to study. The first clipping featured an illustration from the sixties, maybe an early Mark English. Lurid brush strokes in red, clashing with a garish yellow; clear evidence that the image was from a previous ‘decadent’ decade. In the background a female figure looks out a window, looking distraught. She is painted in a dark grey silhouette, and is standing with her back to a seated man. He is coloured sparingly in a rich brown monochrome. He is drawn relaxed, laid back, and holding a glass tumbler with whisky and ice, the drink balanced on the arm of a 60’s styled chair. A relationship on the rocks perhaps? The image does its job and wets the art students thirst to read more, but only the illustrated spread is saved, the rest of the article is long gone. The folder was filled with many such lost treasure from a golden era of illustration. Pictures telling stories of scorned lovers, dead beat detectives, reckless race car drivers, or more simple affairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/554f2995-1ca1-46c2-9057-726a7e13e49a/2_photoguy.jpg rationale1 - A S tolen Lunch Next, the teacher brought in a stack of books. Dog eared publications filled with the classics of North American illustration. Rockwell, Leyendecker, and Wyeth most notable among them. Norman Rockwell’s rich characterization of an idealized middle America that never was, J. C. Leyendecker’s nouveau realism idolizing the excesses of the rich. And N.C. Wyeth, defining the fiction of how a pirate would look for generations to come. Illustrated stories of Americana, real and imagined. Both inspiring and daunting for the young art student. He was excited to get started. But then the teacher said no. You can’t draw pictures that way, not anymore. Photography came along and took it all away. The labours of the masters replaced by a click and a flash. Years of experience and an expansive breadth of talent no match for the ease and uncanny reality of technology. The camera ate the illustrators lunch, nearly every crumb. And so what were the modern masters of illustration to do? Soon enough, collectively, or individually they came together with an idea. They asked themselves what is photography unable to do? A camera can’t picture something it doesn’t see. It can’t depict an idea, an abstraction that existed only in the mind. And so came conceptual illustration. It wasn’t exactly new, Rene Magritte had played that card in the fine art game. And the Polish poster artists used metaphor because they feared saying anything outright in a communist state. But it was new to North American illustration and presented a different way of looking at things. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0581f293-eaa2-467a-8972-c1825d8da25f/3_concepteye.jpg rationale1 - Staking a Claim In the 80’s and 90’s conceptual illustration flourished. In editorial, in commerce, in industry, and in culture. Illustration found a new purpose and reason to exist. Symbol and metaphor propagated in abundance. Miniaturized people were a favourite theme. Generic representations of the common business man. Sometimes carrying, other times pushing, often lifting. Holding massive objects that represented something more. Symbols like a beaker for science, a gear for industry, a piggy bank for commerce. Brad Holland was the master of this new medium, Craig Frazier the intellect, and Rafal Olbinski the auteur. They struck gold and mined it for all it was worth. A second golden era of illustration. The young art student, now graduated, joined in on the gold rush. He staked a claim and while he didn’t make his fortune, he was fortunate enough to make a good living illustrating conceptually. Until boom time went bust. With the coming of a new century, technology had a novel trick up its sleeves. It was the internet. In a few short years all the mines were mined out. Magazines, newspapers, print advertising died out or became a shadow of their previous selves. The former student and practitioner, now an art teacher, wondered what was next? He wouldn’t need to worry for long. The industry and art students had already moved onto something new. Creating characters and imagining new worlds that mostly replaced that tired old world of illustration. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1aa15bc5-2565-4945-9b46-349143006431/4_conceptjoystick.jpg rationale1 - Your Move And it wasn’t only technology that had moved on but conceptual thinking itself had been mined to near extinction. Symbols and metaphors were so overused, finding anything new was like finding a needle in a haystack. A few artist hung on, admirably so. Christoph Niemann put up a heroic fight. Liana Finck is a newcomer so clever she makes old ideas feel new. But looking back the art teacher wondered if it was all a fever dream or a mass hysteria. He could hardly remember why he had expended so much energy to say something indirectly, obtusely, when he could have just said it directly, understandably. He thinks back to that folder of magazine clippings filled with old illustrations of straightforward storytelling. Of detectives detecting, or lovers loving. No symbols of magnifying glasses or heart shaped mazes to obscure meaning; just to look clever. So often sliding into cliche, or rendered incomprehensible and impersonal, no matter how ingenious. The art teacher needed to make a move or resign the game. The folder was long gone, lost or purged. So the art teacher tried to go back to the beginning. Walk it off, get out of his mind and back into the world. Draw what he saw and speak plainly about it. But it was hard to shake off an old habit, now a compulsion, to draw a greater meaning. “Why can’t you simply say what you mean?” He asked himself. It took more than a few years for the infection to break. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/8fa3dc9d-05ed-4a48-83d3-a619bdd6c3bb/6_martinigirl.jpg rationale1 - Nothing Stays Dead “Draw what you say.” he asked of his students too. Some of them had caught the fever. And in this new dystopian world, he wondered if trusting others to interpret the meaning of what they were drawing was a good thing? The extremes on both sides were out for blood, sniffing around for the faintest slight. A howl in the digital night to summon an undying horde. Safer to stick to a story, clearly articulated, and maybe more meaningful. This is not to say concept is gone, like mom jeans and vinyl records nothing really stays dead. A few magazines and newspapers have learned to survive, even prosper, in the latest regime. Newer mediums such as motion graphics dip their toe in occasionally. And there are workarounds such as juxtaposition that can say something conceptually without the danger of redundancy. Of course the story doesn’t end there, stories never really end. Once again technology has another trick up its sleeve, AI, artificial intelligence. The imperfection of a person is now competing with the perfection of technology. Years of experience and an expansive breadth of talent no match for the ease and uncanny reality of technology. First the camera, now AI. Hungry to eat the illustrators lunch once again, perhaps every crumb this time? But the art teacher wasn’t worried. Maybe an AI could write a new robot law in the style of Asimov … a robot shall not take a job a human would rather do? Something along those lines, the AI could decide. Or people and AI’s could work together, team up for the better good! Written and illustrated by Mike Kerr ©2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5fbcf41f-3651-4ea7-a41b-2e7ab142135f/robothand.jpg rationale1 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967612-PYRN3H6QLVO6H9NCWARI/chapterone.jpg rationale1 - Chapter One / Drawing Noir (Copy) Chapter One / Drawing Noir https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968951-6UEIJFT4S0T7HB2M2OM7/chaptertwo.jpg rationale1 - Chapter Two / A Little Color (Copy) Chapter Two / A Little Color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729969865-ONME5IWU8NLHQUAZE5ZY/chapterthree.jpg rationale1 - Chapter Three / Rough It (Copy) Chapter Three / Rough It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968655-6L6XNK200EDJXUZHS2YE/chapterfour.jpg rationale1 - Chapter Four / Editorial (Copy) Chapter Four / Editorial https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967918-8LVE46ZO5DFNXEBBIJP4/chapterfive.jpg rationale1 - Chapter Five / Purposeful (Copy) Chapter Five / Purposeful https://www.randmcollective.com/work daily 0.75 2023-04-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/634ecb47-072f-45ea-a0f8-fea10aea2c53/sampleone_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/bf2812b6-c22b-470b-86c3-fbba6aab3f14/sampletwo_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/b0f7bcd5-cc86-4716-b084-de2edaa74aca/samplethree_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9e32f1cf-33f3-4bd0-af95-80cf6e1f34d4/samplefour_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c9d51569-a247-45f9-af28-58c6c7b07d10/samplefive_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c293f5d2-2539-4ea4-bd93-701343061e24/samplesix_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/401d68c5-7267-4ad9-b39d-495a36e9a12e/sampleseven_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9eebb1f6-5610-4be6-9a2e-1fed16909a27/sampleeight_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a1a49f2b-8b04-4dba-8223-0933cbb8398e/samplenine_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ea9ee1a2-b7d8-437c-b276-3989999657e1/tumblr_mqpdtpCK3c1qix5wro1_500.gif work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/634ecb47-072f-45ea-a0f8-fea10aea2c53/sampleone_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/bf2812b6-c22b-470b-86c3-fbba6aab3f14/sampletwo_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/b0f7bcd5-cc86-4716-b084-de2edaa74aca/samplethree_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9e32f1cf-33f3-4bd0-af95-80cf6e1f34d4/samplefour_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c9d51569-a247-45f9-af28-58c6c7b07d10/samplefive_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c293f5d2-2539-4ea4-bd93-701343061e24/samplesix_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/401d68c5-7267-4ad9-b39d-495a36e9a12e/sampleseven_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9eebb1f6-5610-4be6-9a2e-1fed16909a27/sampleeight_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a1a49f2b-8b04-4dba-8223-0933cbb8398e/samplenine_mikekerr.jpg work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ea9ee1a2-b7d8-437c-b276-3989999657e1/tumblr_mqpdtpCK3c1qix5wro1_500.gif work - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.randmcollective.com/scene daily 0.75 2023-04-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/71de28d4-8173-48c6-8d02-4e8b8834e9ab/scene1colour.jpg scene “Almost there.” said Dak. Ava wasn’t convinced, Dak had claimed that before. Her frustration grew as they labored up the steep hill, Ava’s discomfort amplified her discontent. And, although Dak would never admit it, they were lost. He had them scrambling up the hill in an attempt to salvage his pride. When they reached the top of the hill, Dak surveyed the horizon. He found what he was looking for, or pretended he did. “This way.” He said, and hurried down through a break in the densely forested hill. Downhill was murder on Ava’s stiff joints. The ache, hunger, and a growing distrust of Dak had her considering ending their relationship. She had been ruminating about it for weeks and her patience was reaching a boiling point. She contemplated how to approach the situation, should she talk it over or just spring it on him? There wouldn’t be a better time, she had the higher ground and he was distracted. She tensed her body, building up energy like a spring. “Hey, do you smell that?” Said Dak. Ava held back at the last possible moment. Yes, she smelled something – wood smoke. “Dinners served.” said Dak. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/411ebab8-b344-4266-9033-ad611d6ef225/scene1.jpg scene - Establishing a scene This is the establishing scene and the inciting incident. I want to suggest the characters have climbed a high hill in a wooded area. I’ve added old stairs to imply a dystopian overgrown world. I’ve drawn it as daylight, but with contrast, shadows, and overcast lighting to add tension. It is darker and dense towards the bottom to exaggerate height and make it feel more impenetrable. The left side is also darker and congested to suggest the characters have come out of a wooded area and into an open area on top of the hill. The light is brightest and open in the top right corner to create focus on the lead character. The lead character is drawn with body language implying they are looking for something, and maybe found it; and about to move forward. The character behind is drawn lower to the ground to suggest wariness or uncertainty. Each character is inked in silhouette to keep them mysterious and emphasis the unusual body design. One is top heavy, the other bottom heavy. The digital illustration techniques mimic sketchy pencil shading, brushed ink shapes, and loose tonal painting to give the image a stylized, informal and storybook feel. To establish an undiscerning plausibility to the scene. But real enough to create weight and tension. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ed5b84a5-dbe7-43af-8ad4-ae311b02d2b9/scene2colour.jpg scene Ava could be quiet as a mouse when she wanted. The humans gathered around the fire wouldn’t suspect a thing. She was on her prey before they could raise a defence, they scattered in all directions. A larger group headed towards the forest, the dense thicket would make pursuit more difficult and possibly dangerous. She saw a solitary figure dash in the opposite direction, one human alone wouldn’t be much trouble. She caught it easy enough and grabbed a hold. She turned back to the clearing, now filled with smoke from the trampled fire. Ava felt a stabbing pain and she dropped the human. It landed hard and tried to right itself, it was holding something against its chest with one hand. It’s other hand held a wicked looking dagger. Ava reacted instinctively and swatted the human, breaking its neck. A pity, she preferred them alive and wiggling. Ava sat down and nibbled on its leg. It was dry and stringy, barely any meat on it. She had caught an older human. The old were usually easier to catch but harder to chew, and rather tasteless. She glanced over at Dak and saw his was fresher. Muscled and broad of shoulder. It looked delicious, she felt indignation at the disparity. “No fair.” She said aloud. Dak laughed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/810a08d6-af69-49c8-845f-43484414bda4/scene2.jpg scene - Exaggerating for effect This is the rising action and climax scene. I don’t want to give too much away, I want the image to support and emphasis the text. It’s a worms eye view to create menace and scale to the creature. I’m using backlit directional lighting from the fire to establish strong silhouettes to keep the body language and action clear (dark against light shapes). The scene is framed by heavy towering trees on each side to form an arch that squeezes the characters into a confined area, adding tension. Lighter background trees, front lit by the fire, suggest some depth and background. The creature emerges from background. Head and arms dark, toned down as its legs merge with the background. The soft tones also ensure that the fleeing characters body shapes are clear and intact where they overlap. The middle ground characters are drawn in high energy movements suggesting different narratives. The character on the left is high tailing it out of the scene, the centre character is reacting to the creature behind, and/or perhaps the right hand character. Which is stumbling as they run. All the characters are in midair to suggest motion, and cartooned to balance the tone of the writing. The foreground characters are close to the viewer to create more depth in the scene. They are cropped to imply they are escaping and there may be others that have escaped ahead of them. Their grayscale value is similar to the arched framing device so focus moves away, to the mid ground action. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a5624c11-de72-4f5f-965b-45e2e8d96cd3/scene3.jpg scene Her frustration boiled over, she wasn’t going to let it pass. She readied herself to strike. But again she was interrupted. Ava heard a muffled cry. Looking down she saw the human had been holding onto a small bundle, the cry emanated from the parcel. Ava carefully unwrapped it. The baby cried louder when exposed to the cold air. Dak heard the thin cries and took a closer look. “Told you so.” He said with a smug grin. If Dak had been less complacent, maybe Ava wouldn’t have bitten his head off. But if she was honest with herself it was going to happen sooner or later. Ava had to wait a few moments for Dak’s headless body to cease convulsing before returning her attention to her meal. But somehow it was gone. She searched about, perhaps it had rolled off in the excitement? But she found no trace, just the blanket the baby had been wrapped in. Ava was confused, in her experience human babies couldn’t get away. But it was nowhere to be found. Thankfully, Dak had only taken a small bite out of his meal so Ava finished the leftovers. It tasted as good as it looked and she felt content. She took a moment to digest and rest her aching joints. Maybe she would go after the little morsel later, it couldn’t have gone far. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5776020d-ba97-41eb-be88-8ad91f8a79db/scene3.jpg scene - Subtle Suggestions For the falling action and dénouement I’ve used another framing element around the borders, but this curtaining is stable and used to create a sense that a viewer is observing the scene secretly from afar. The foreground painting is more expressive and has softer edges to suggest the focal point is on the character. There are lightly toned trees in back to surround the character and imply that the missing meal could have went off in any direction. There is also an indistinct silhouette on either side of the character on the horizon to indicate the corpse of the other creature. The body language of the creature and the prop of the blanket reinforces the narrative, that the character is looking around for the owner of the blanket. The smoking embers of the fire overlap the character to give the scene a more in-progress feeling (less staged). A combination of softer painterly edges and sharper organic edges add atmosphere and help with the layering of the depth through the foreground, middle ground, and background. All of the images in the series use dynamic angles to create drama and excitement, and a handheld camera feel to further give the scene(s) a natural, live action sensibility. The story and character work against type or expectation to define a unique point of view. The story is written from a human relationship perspective and circle of life theme. But the reverse casting of what is expected in a protagonist and antagonist act as prism to look at human experiences from a different angle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/71de28d4-8173-48c6-8d02-4e8b8834e9ab/scene1colour.jpg scene “Almost there.” said Dak. Ava wasn’t convinced, Dak had claimed that before. Her frustration grew as they labored up the steep hill, Ava’s discomfort amplified her discontent. And, although Dak would never admit it, they were lost. He had them scrambling up the hill in an attempt to salvage his pride. When they reached the top of the hill, Dak surveyed the horizon. He found what he was looking for, or pretended he did. “This way.” He said, and hurried down through a break in the densely forested hill. Downhill was murder on Ava’s stiff joints. The ache, hunger, and a growing distrust of Dak had her considering ending their relationship. She had been ruminating about it for weeks and her patience was reaching a boiling point. She contemplated how to approach the situation, should she talk it over or just spring it on him? There wouldn’t be a better time, she had the higher ground and he was distracted. She tensed her body, building up energy like a spring. “Hey, do you smell that?” Said Dak. Ava held back at the last possible moment. Yes, she smelled something – wood smoke. “Dinners served.” said Dak. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/411ebab8-b344-4266-9033-ad611d6ef225/scene1.jpg scene - Establishing a scene This is the establishing scene and the inciting incident. I want to suggest the characters have climbed a high hill in a wooded area. I’ve added old stairs to imply a dystopian overgrown world. I’ve drawn it as daylight, but with contrast, shadows, and overcast lighting to add tension. It is darker and dense towards the bottom to exaggerate height and make it feel more impenetrable. The left side is also darker and congested to suggest the characters have come out of a wooded area and into an open area on top of the hill. The light is brightest and open in the top right corner to create focus on the lead character. The lead character is drawn with body language implying they are looking for something, and maybe found it; and about to move forward. The character behind is drawn lower to the ground to suggest wariness or uncertainty. Each character is inked in silhouette to keep them mysterious and emphasis the unusual body design. One is top heavy, the other bottom heavy. The digital illustration techniques mimic sketchy pencil shading, brushed ink shapes, and loose tonal painting to give the image a stylized, informal and storybook feel. To establish an undiscerning plausibility to the scene. But real enough to create weight and tension. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ed5b84a5-dbe7-43af-8ad4-ae311b02d2b9/scene2colour.jpg scene Ava could be quiet as a mouse when she wanted. The humans gathered around the fire wouldn’t suspect a thing. She was on her prey before they could raise a defence, they scattered in all directions. A larger group headed towards the forest, the dense thicket would make pursuit more difficult and possibly dangerous. She saw a solitary figure dash in the opposite direction, one human alone wouldn’t be much trouble. She caught it easy enough and grabbed a hold. She turned back to the clearing, now filled with smoke from the trampled fire. Ava felt a stabbing pain and she dropped the human. It landed hard and tried to right itself, it was holding something against its chest with one hand. It’s other hand held a wicked looking dagger. Ava reacted instinctively and swatted the human, breaking its neck. A pity, she preferred them alive and wiggling. Ava sat down and nibbled on its leg. It was dry and stringy, barely any meat on it. She had caught an older human. The old were usually easier to catch but harder to chew, and rather tasteless. She glanced over at Dak and saw his was fresher. Muscled and broad of shoulder. It looked delicious, she felt indignation at the disparity. “No fair.” She said aloud. Dak laughed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/810a08d6-af69-49c8-845f-43484414bda4/scene2.jpg scene - Exaggerating for effect This is the rising action and climax scene. I don’t want to give too much away, I want the image to support and emphasis the text. It’s a worms eye view to create menace and scale to the creature. I’m using backlit directional lighting from the fire to establish strong silhouettes to keep the body language and action clear (dark against light shapes). The scene is framed by heavy towering trees on each side to form an arch that squeezes the characters into a confined area, adding tension. Lighter background trees, front lit by the fire, suggest some depth and background. The creature emerges from background. Head and arms dark, toned down as its legs merge with the background. The soft tones also ensure that the fleeing characters body shapes are clear and intact where they overlap. The middle ground characters are drawn in high energy movements suggesting different narratives. The character on the left is high tailing it out of the scene, the centre character is reacting to the creature behind, and/or perhaps the right hand character. Which is stumbling as they run. All the characters are in midair to suggest motion, and cartooned to balance the tone of the writing. The foreground characters are close to the viewer to create more depth in the scene. They are cropped to imply they are escaping and there may be others that have escaped ahead of them. Their grayscale value is similar to the arched framing device so focus moves away, to the mid ground action. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a5624c11-de72-4f5f-965b-45e2e8d96cd3/scene3.jpg scene Her frustration boiled over, she wasn’t going to let it pass. She readied herself to strike. But again she was interrupted. Ava heard a muffled cry. Looking down she saw the human had been holding onto a small bundle, the cry emanated from the parcel. Ava carefully unwrapped it. The baby cried louder when exposed to the cold air. Dak heard the thin cries and took a closer look. “Told you so.” He said with a smug grin. If Dak had been less complacent, maybe Ava wouldn’t have bitten his head off. But if she was honest with herself it was going to happen sooner or later. Ava had to wait a few moments for Dak’s headless body to cease convulsing before returning her attention to her meal. But somehow it was gone. She searched about, perhaps it had rolled off in the excitement? But she found no trace, just the blanket the baby had been wrapped in. Ava was confused, in her experience human babies couldn’t get away. But it was nowhere to be found. Thankfully, Dak had only taken a small bite out of his meal so Ava finished the leftovers. It tasted as good as it looked and she felt content. She took a moment to digest and rest her aching joints. Maybe she would go after the little morsel later, it couldn’t have gone far. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5776020d-ba97-41eb-be88-8ad91f8a79db/scene3.jpg scene - Subtle Suggestions For the falling action and dénouement I’ve used another framing element around the borders, but this curtaining is stable and used to create a sense that a viewer is observing the scene secretly from afar. The foreground painting is more expressive and has softer edges to suggest the focal point is on the character. There are lightly toned trees in back to surround the character and imply that the missing meal could have went off in any direction. There is also an indistinct silhouette on either side of the character on the horizon to indicate the corpse of the other creature. The body language of the creature and the prop of the blanket reinforces the narrative, that the character is looking around for the owner of the blanket. The smoking embers of the fire overlap the character to give the scene a more in-progress feeling (less staged). A combination of softer painterly edges and sharper organic edges add atmosphere and help with the layering of the depth through the foreground, middle ground, and background. All of the images in the series use dynamic angles to create drama and excitement, and a handheld camera feel to further give the scene(s) a natural, live action sensibility. The story and character work against type or expectation to define a unique point of view. The story is written from a human relationship perspective and circle of life theme. But the reverse casting of what is expected in a protagonist and antagonist act as prism to look at human experiences from a different angle. https://www.randmcollective.com/skate daily 0.75 2023-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/51a8d1af-83b1-4656-a9bf-f7ae3f4272ca/surfer.jpg skate - character drawing Much about illustration depends on intent. Life drawing is about observing and capturing life as it appears. Objectively, to learn the hand eye coordination to draw life as observed. And subjectively, to look for stories to tell. Character drawing has a slightly different intent. Instead of capturing life as it is, I intentionally filter and interpret what is observed. Adapting, exaggerating, and expanding upon direct experiences to find fun ways to illustrate the world as I want to see it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/aa71ce88-1c1e-4158-8be0-8eb37bb154d8/skatemontage3.jpg skate - MOTION Character is look and style, but like a real person, character is more than skin deep. A character is what they do, how they do it, and why. Exercise Part 1 / Divide a standard 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper into 8 frames. Complete 8 thumbnail gestures drawn from a specific activity or sport. Find reference on YouTube, Pinterest, or Instagram. Use references that are inherently about movement. If working from video, pause or take screen captures. Use the photos only as a learning guide. Don’t zoom in or draw a sequence. And don’t copy directly. Keep the drawings expressive and quick, under 10 minutes each. Focus on movement and communicating the action and motion. Exaggerate, stylize, and make the drawing yours. Draw as silhouettes and/or simplified line drawings / 1.5 hours. How does motion enhance the action in a drawing? Why does movement make an image more visually engaging? How does body language, proportions, foreshortening, and balance produce a more convincing action? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/23e4a35b-9598-4707-9a2d-167891327219/skatecat.jpg skate - sequence I’ve selected skaters to draw because skateboarding is more than an activity. It’s a lifestyle and an identity that can be readily communicated in a drawing. Exercise Part 2 / Cut your gesture drawings out and try to arrange them in a sequence. Adapt, edit, or redesign the actions and the characters so all drawings have the same character design and corresponding movements. String the drawings together to form a series, add or substitute in-betweens to smooth out the transition between key frames. However this is not an animation so the movements and pacing do not need to to be strictly sequential. Create a 6-9 frame sequence. / Draw as silhouette shape with minimal line / 2 hours. How does arranging images in a specific order change the drawings? What happens inbetween the frames when you juxtapose drawings together? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/04767dfa-c34c-4fa7-bb8e-1fdbfd8daaa4/catmorning2.jpg skate - story A skater projects personality and action clearly. Everyday life is more subtle. However, every day actions can say a lot about a character. For homework follow the same procedure as in class but draw from your own direct experiences and observations. Exercise Part 3 / Observe yourself or others and draw the everyday actions of people you encounter. Drawings should depict an activity being performed (not a pinup pose). Do 8 gesture sketches of actions and movements you observe. As before stylize and exaggerate to make the drawings your own. If drawing a stranger try to take mental pictures of them and then draw a caricature based on the memories instead of drawing direct. This is not an observational exercise, instead it is about capturing character in movement and action. Traditional and/or digital. Silhouette and limited line, B+W. / 1.5 hours. Part 4/ Combine the drawings into a series. Add or substitute to create a logical sequence. Redesign drawings to have one consistent character throughout the series. 6-9 frames. Draw with silhouette and limited line, include one greyscale tone or colour. / 3 hours. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/51a8d1af-83b1-4656-a9bf-f7ae3f4272ca/surfer.jpg skate - character drawing Much about illustration depends on intent. Life drawing is about observing and capturing life as it appears. Objectively, to learn the hand eye coordination to draw life as observed. And subjectively, to look for stories to tell. Character drawing has a slightly different intent. Instead of capturing life as it is, I intentionally filter and interpret what is observed. Adapting, exaggerating, and expanding upon direct experiences to find fun ways to illustrate the world as I want to see it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/aa71ce88-1c1e-4158-8be0-8eb37bb154d8/skatemontage3.jpg skate - MOTION Character is look and style, but like a real person, character is more than skin deep. A character is what they do, how they do it, and why. Exercise Part 1 / Divide a standard 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper into 8 frames. Complete 8 thumbnail gestures drawn from a specific activity or sport. Find reference on YouTube, Pinterest, or Instagram. Use references that are inherently about movement. If working from video, pause or take screen captures. Use the photos only as a learning guide. Don’t zoom in or draw a sequence. And don’t copy directly. Keep the drawings expressive and quick, under 10 minutes each. Focus on movement and communicating the action and motion. Exaggerate, stylize, and make the drawing yours. Draw as silhouettes and/or simplified line drawings / 1.5 hours. How does motion enhance the action in a drawing? Why does movement make an image more visually engaging? How does body language, proportions, foreshortening, and balance produce a more convincing action? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/23e4a35b-9598-4707-9a2d-167891327219/skatecat.jpg skate - sequence I’ve selected skaters to draw because skateboarding is more than an activity. It’s a lifestyle and an identity that can be readily communicated in a drawing. Exercise Part 2 / Cut your gesture drawings out and try to arrange them in a sequence. Adapt, edit, or redesign the actions and the characters so all drawings have the same character design and corresponding movements. String the drawings together to form a series, add or substitute in-betweens to smooth out the transition between key frames. However this is not an animation so the movements and pacing do not need to to be strictly sequential. Create a 6-9 frame sequence. / Draw as silhouette shape with minimal line / 2 hours. How does arranging images in a specific order change the drawings? What happens inbetween the frames when you juxtapose drawings together? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/04767dfa-c34c-4fa7-bb8e-1fdbfd8daaa4/catmorning2.jpg skate - story A skater projects personality and action clearly. Everyday life is more subtle. However, every day actions can say a lot about a character. For homework follow the same procedure as in class but draw from your own direct experiences and observations. Exercise Part 3 / Observe yourself or others and draw the everyday actions of people you encounter. Drawings should depict an activity being performed (not a pinup pose). Do 8 gesture sketches of actions and movements you observe. As before stylize and exaggerate to make the drawings your own. If drawing a stranger try to take mental pictures of them and then draw a caricature based on the memories instead of drawing direct. This is not an observational exercise, instead it is about capturing character in movement and action. Traditional and/or digital. Silhouette and limited line, B+W. / 1.5 hours. Part 4/ Combine the drawings into a series. Add or substitute to create a logical sequence. Redesign drawings to have one consistent character throughout the series. 6-9 frames. Draw with silhouette and limited line, include one greyscale tone or colour. / 3 hours. https://www.randmcollective.com/lines daily 0.75 2023-09-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/94f031d3-b4af-4ad1-860c-c24a912cb1f5/lines_six.jpg lines Once there were three lines. Thick, Thin, and Squiggly. Each Line had a different job. Thick was bold. It made a statement, and was hard to ignore. Thin was careful. It was in control, and made it’s point clearly. Squiggly was unique. It was all over the place, and did a bit of everything. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/fc4246b0-2ecc-463f-8c32-297b78f9a666/lines_one.jpg lines Thick liked to be on the outside. Thin was happy staying inside. And Squiggly? Squiggly went wherever it wanted. Although Thick was loud, it could be hard to handle. Although Thin was quiet, it could say quite a lot. And Although Squiggly was full of emotion, it wasn’t always clear what it was saying. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/b648ef0e-2d34-4b50-a7c4-c9594f1770c2/lines_two.jpg lines Thick was the leader. It could fill a space quickly, and make a statement even quicker. Thick was hard to ignore, and not easy to forget. And it could be seen from further away. Thin didn’t get the same attention as Thick. But it didn’t need to. It liked to be concise, and could elaborate on the smallest detail. Thin could be whatever it wanted to be. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c0945610-30d4-43bb-b784-2cbc70239756/lines_three.jpg lines Sometimes it was mechanical, other times it was organic. And still other times, it would let loose. Although it was slight, Thin could fill a space. If given enough time. Some people thought Squiggly was broken, without direction, or purpose. But what’s wrong with that? Squiggly was always changing and different. No two Squiggles were ever the same. And that made it distinct. Squiggly was emotional, expressive, effortless, and dare I say, elegant. It too, could be whatever it wanted to be. Even perfect. If everything is imperfect, everything will be perfectly imperfect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1d8111fd-52a1-4de5-8d73-0edcd19ad197/lines_five.jpg lines All three lines worked well on their own. Each had their own personality and purpose. The lines also worked well together. In fact, when they worked together, they often said more than they could say apart. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6f5eab08-fecb-45ea-831e-f255ea4db60f/lines_four.jpg lines But even the three lines together couldn’t do it all alone. They needed someone else. They needed someone to guide them, to give them purpose. And meaning. To tell stories, and make characters, or imagine places to be. To be creative or concise. Or just have a whole lot of fun. They needed someone. Someone with knowledge, purpose, or feeling. Someone like you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cbae9dfb-c902-4735-93d9-8a6fea8de743/lines_seven.jpg lines - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/94f031d3-b4af-4ad1-860c-c24a912cb1f5/lines_six.jpg lines Once there were three lines. Thick, Thin, and Squiggly. Each Line had a different job. Thick was bold. It made a statement, and was hard to ignore. Thin was careful. It was in control, and made it’s point clearly. Squiggly was unique. It was all over the place, and did a bit of everything. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/fc4246b0-2ecc-463f-8c32-297b78f9a666/lines_one.jpg lines Thick liked to be on the outside. Thin was happy staying inside. And Squiggly? Squiggly went wherever it wanted. Although Thick was loud, it could be hard to handle. Although Thin was quiet, it could say quite a lot. And Although Squiggly was full of emotion, it wasn’t always clear what it was saying. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/b648ef0e-2d34-4b50-a7c4-c9594f1770c2/lines_two.jpg lines Thick was the leader. It could fill a space quickly, and make a statement even quicker. Thick was hard to ignore, and not easy to forget. And it could be seen from further away. Thin didn’t get the same attention as Thick. But it didn’t need to. It liked to be concise, and could elaborate on the smallest detail. Thin could be whatever it wanted to be. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c0945610-30d4-43bb-b784-2cbc70239756/lines_three.jpg lines Sometimes it was mechanical, other times it was organic. And still other times, it would let loose. Although it was slight, Thin could fill a space. If given enough time. Some people thought Squiggly was broken, without direction, or purpose. But what’s wrong with that? Squiggly was always changing and different. No two Squiggles were ever the same. And that made it distinct. Squiggly was emotional, expressive, effortless, and dare I say, elegant. It too, could be whatever it wanted to be. Even perfect. If everything is imperfect, everything will be perfectly imperfect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1d8111fd-52a1-4de5-8d73-0edcd19ad197/lines_five.jpg lines All three lines worked well on their own. Each had their own personality and purpose. The lines also worked well together. In fact, when they worked together, they often said more than they could say apart. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6f5eab08-fecb-45ea-831e-f255ea4db60f/lines_four.jpg lines But even the three lines together couldn’t do it all alone. They needed someone else. They needed someone to guide them, to give them purpose. And meaning. To tell stories, and make characters, or imagine places to be. To be creative or concise. Or just have a whole lot of fun. They needed someone. Someone with knowledge, purpose, or feeling. Someone like you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cbae9dfb-c902-4735-93d9-8a6fea8de743/lines_seven.jpg lines - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.randmcollective.com/strikeone daily 0.75 2023-10-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1037cb12-f4bf-4266-8d97-caaab2de6392/renatavoice1.jpg strikeone - Finding a Voice Anecdotes on how Renata became a Children’s Book Illustrator. The scene was reminiscent of an ‘80s movie. A traveler walked into an airport terminal in sunny California. It was winter, but warm. She was not wearing her coat. The shot cut to the next scene. It showed the traveller walking out of another airport terminal – into a completely different type of winter. A whirlwind of snow nearly knocked her over. She was wearing her coat, and had buried herself deep within it. But it was laughably inadequate. The traveller, a children’s book editor, had been forewarned that it would be cold at her destination. But the word “cold” was not nearly descriptive enough for the northern city she had arrived in. The book editor was guided by her host to a parked car. The host’s car had been parked for less than twenty minutes, but it had lost all of its warmth. They waited a few long moments for the vehicle to warm up. At least the car had started, and without its usual struggle. The host was a children’s book author and illustrator that had invited the editor to speak at the local art college. The host imagined she could see regret in the editor's expression. She tried to lighten the mood with a joke at the weather’s expense. The snowstorm darkened. Apparently it didn’t have much of a sense of humor. “Oh well, we will have to make the best of it.” She told the shivering editor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9ef53a35-b5b0-4f74-bd81-970af0463f49/strikeoneb.jpg strikeone The next day the snow stopped. It was a sunny day, the sky was a rich vivid blue. But the cold remained. A woman named Renata walked up the hill to the art college. It was slow going, she carried a heavy portfolio case and an overstuffed backpack. The children’s book conference she was attending at the college would last all day, so she came extra prepared. Below the school was a city park, it was early on a Saturday morning, so the snow filled landscape was quiet and undisturbed. She took a moment to appreciate her surroundings – it was exciting to be the first to walk through the freshly fallen snow. The hill was a winter wonderland, the shape of it defined by subtle shades of white, grey, and blue. Clumps of prairie grass broke through the softly packed surface here and there. Its coloring was complementary to the color of the sky. Renata tried to imprint the scene in her mind so she could use it as inspiration for her artwork. It wouldn’t be a direct representation, she simply wanted to remember the softness of the snow and the way the colors made her feel. After a few moments of contemplation she rushed up the remainder of the hill. She was breathless by the time she entered the college. Not only from the steepness of the slope, but from her growing excitement about the conference. She was hoping it would be the breakthrough she needed. She finally, and fully, committed to being an artist. It was going okay, her workload was steadily growing. But so was her credit card balance, and at a faster pace. She seriously needed to do something about it. That was one of the reasons she signed up for the conference, including signing up for a personal portfolio review from a real children’s book editor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e27f6a73-138d-4819-b09e-0a9d9319e414/strikeoned.jpg strikeone It had always been Renata’s goal to become a “serious” artist, and she was building a body of work that reflected that desire. Her art was a reflection of where she came from – Poland. Polish illustration was known for its editorial poster art, many of her countryman became famous for it. This had been reflected in her art school training back home. And Renata was an eager student of that school of thinking. Mostly. Renata had recently started going to coffee shops to draw. She didn’t sketch anything specific, she let intuition, and her pencil guide the way. Most of the sketches were heavy-hearted drawings of poignancy and melancholy. But every so often something sweet would appear. A little piglet, a group of ducks, or a child in a raincoat and large rubber boots, pulling a little red wagon (it wasn’t red in the pencil drawing, but that is what she imagined.) She wasn’t sure what part of her subconscious these pictures came from, but they made her smile. And they made others smile too. A regular drawing companion noticed the child friendly drawings in her sketchbook, and he suggested she should do children’s books. Renata wasn’t sure about the idea, she didn’t think serious artists did kids stuff. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/3ae69c3b-d762-4719-9abe-f6a534a9402a/strikeonec.jpg strikeone But the idea grew on her. She started making small paintings based on some of the more light hearted drawings in her sketchbooks. Soon enough Renata had a mini collection of painted illustrations. For the children’s book conference, she put together a portfolio, with color copies of the artwork. She also brought along one of her original oil paintings. She'd read somewhere about a golden age illustrator who delivered his finished illustrations as original art. He would even put the paintings in a frame. And take the train all the way down to Manhattan, from his small town many hours away. He’d drag the heavy paintings into a taxi, and up the elevator to his publisher’s offices, to formally unveil the cover art. Renata liked how serious the illustrator was about showing his artwork. She felt the same way. After the conference, Renata wouldn’t remember any of the workshops, or the editor’s keynote speech. During the event, all she could think about was presenting her own work to the editor. She had shown her portfolio to art directors, and clients before. Many times. But there was something intimidating about showing her work to the book editor. It felt more real. The editor was one of the select gate keepers that decided what did, or did not, appear on book shelves throughout North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9fa142c2-820e-40a6-97e4-7ae0df35a05b/strikeonee.jpg strikeone The editor looked through Renata’s portfolio. She took her time examining each page, which Renata appreciated. Some previous reviewers of her portfolio flipped through quickly, and barely looked at the work. It didn’t necessarily mean anything, those same flippers might still hire her. But she appreciated the seriousness the editor took in viewing her illustrations. Renata had also brought the sketchbook with the kid friendly drawings inside. The editor paused on the sketchbook page with the drawing of the child pulling a wagon. “I love this sketch. How simple, and emotional your drawing is.” Said the editor. “I’d love to see more of what these characters could do.” Renata smiled self consciously and thanked her. The editor flipped through the sketchbook some more, and made similar comments about some of the other small doodles in the book. Then she returned to the portfolio of Renata’s finished illustrations. The portfolio was a medium sized book, overly heavy, with handles to carry it. It had a dark plastic exterior embossed with a fake leather texture. The interior of the book was filled with glossy plastic pages, bound in a metal ring binder. Copies of her artwork were inserted into the transparent sleeves. Renata had carefully curated what images she included, around a dozen illustrations in total. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/52fc46db-facc-4051-8222-32bade360050/strikeonef.jpg strikeone “However, I am not sure that these paintings are working for me.” Said the editor. “They are too serious for book publishing.” Renata did not remember what the editor said next. Probably helpful suggestions and advice. But all she could hear was rejection. At the end of the critique, the editor picked up the original painting Renata had brought to the interview. It was an image of a child bundled in a coat that was too big for them. The oversized jacket was tightened around the child’s waist by a big leather belt. The painting was inspired from real life. When Renata was a child her mother had bundled her up in her brothers’ hand me down jackets. She remembers a woman in the neighborhood commenting on it. The woman said, "what a lovely looking boy.” Renata had not been pleased by the mistaken identity. In the painting, the child pulled an old fashioned snow sled. Sitting on the sled was a snow man with a bright red scarf. In his hand was a stick. The snowman was poking the child with the stick. Needling him, or her, forward. The editor said the painting was lovely, and bittersweet. But it was also too sad for kids books. Much of Renata’s artwork was melancholy. She suggested that Renata should draw happier children. She could still keep it real, but maybe more fun. What the editor had given Renata was a “crit sandwich”. On the outside of the sandwich was the soft white bread, easy to digest. The first and last bites of the sandwich were encouraging words, while the meat in the middle, was the critical comments. Renata had been avoiding eating meat at the time, and no matter how good it was prepared, the “crit sandwich” tasted terribly disappointing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/b06557f7-e5b4-45c0-9c41-f4067a58ff09/strikeoneg.jpg strikeone Afterwards, Renata stumbled down the hill, feeling cold and rejected. She dragged her portfolio behind her, the snow in the park was heavy and difficult to walk through. It was no longer a winter wonderland, the day was still light, but she felt the threatening promise of a colder night, and she feared more to come. The weather stayed cold, but in time, Renata’s disappointment thawed. “Oh well, I’ll just have to make the best of it.” She thought. The editor’s advice was good. Picture books were for kids after all. And kids just wanted to have fun. Maybe she could find a compromise? Renata tried to put herself in a happy child’s winter boots. What would they want to pull on their sled? A good friend perhaps. Or why stop there, when Renata was a child she would have loved pulling a whole lot of good friends! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d19cd9c6-ce8e-4312-815c-af2bfb194c15/strikeoneh.jpg strikeone - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1037cb12-f4bf-4266-8d97-caaab2de6392/renatavoice1.jpg strikeone - Finding a Voice Anecdotes on how Renata became a Children’s Book Illustrator. The scene was reminiscent of an ‘80s movie. A traveler walked into an airport terminal in sunny California. It was winter, but warm. She was not wearing her coat. The shot cut to the next scene. It showed the traveller walking out of another airport terminal – into a completely different type of winter. A whirlwind of snow nearly knocked her over. She was wearing her coat, and had buried herself deep within it. But it was laughably inadequate. The traveller, a children’s book editor, had been forewarned that it would be cold at her destination. But the word “cold” was not nearly descriptive enough for the northern city she had arrived in. The book editor was guided by her host to a parked car. The host’s car had been parked for less than twenty minutes, but it had lost all of its warmth. They waited a few long moments for the vehicle to warm up. At least the car had started, and without its usual struggle. The host was a children’s book author and illustrator that had invited the editor to speak at the local art college. The host imagined she could see regret in the editor's expression. She tried to lighten the mood with a joke at the weather’s expense. The snowstorm darkened. Apparently it didn’t have much of a sense of humor. “Oh well, we will have to make the best of it.” She told the shivering editor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9ef53a35-b5b0-4f74-bd81-970af0463f49/strikeoneb.jpg strikeone The next day the snow stopped. It was a sunny day, the sky was a rich vivid blue. But the cold remained. A woman named Renata walked up the hill to the art college. It was slow going, she carried a heavy portfolio case and an overstuffed backpack. The children’s book conference she was attending at the college would last all day, so she came extra prepared. Below the school was a city park, it was early on a Saturday morning, so the snow filled landscape was quiet and undisturbed. She took a moment to appreciate her surroundings – it was exciting to be the first to walk through the freshly fallen snow. The hill was a winter wonderland, the shape of it defined by subtle shades of white, grey, and blue. Clumps of prairie grass broke through the softly packed surface here and there. Its coloring was complementary to the color of the sky. Renata tried to imprint the scene in her mind so she could use it as inspiration for her artwork. It wouldn’t be a direct representation, she simply wanted to remember the softness of the snow and the way the colors made her feel. After a few moments of contemplation she rushed up the remainder of the hill. She was breathless by the time she entered the college. Not only from the steepness of the slope, but from her growing excitement about the conference. She was hoping it would be the breakthrough she needed. She finally, and fully, committed to being an artist. It was going okay, her workload was steadily growing. But so was her credit card balance, and at a faster pace. She seriously needed to do something about it. That was one of the reasons she signed up for the conference, including signing up for a personal portfolio review from a real children’s book editor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e27f6a73-138d-4819-b09e-0a9d9319e414/strikeoned.jpg strikeone It had always been Renata’s goal to become a “serious” artist, and she was building a body of work that reflected that desire. Her art was a reflection of where she came from – Poland. Polish illustration was known for its editorial poster art, many of her countryman became famous for it. This had been reflected in her art school training back home. And Renata was an eager student of that school of thinking. Mostly. Renata had recently started going to coffee shops to draw. She didn’t sketch anything specific, she let intuition, and her pencil guide the way. Most of the sketches were heavy-hearted drawings of poignancy and melancholy. But every so often something sweet would appear. A little piglet, a group of ducks, or a child in a raincoat and large rubber boots, pulling a little red wagon (it wasn’t red in the pencil drawing, but that is what she imagined.) She wasn’t sure what part of her subconscious these pictures came from, but they made her smile. And they made others smile too. A regular drawing companion noticed the child friendly drawings in her sketchbook, and he suggested she should do children’s books. Renata wasn’t sure about the idea, she didn’t think serious artists did kids stuff. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/3ae69c3b-d762-4719-9abe-f6a534a9402a/strikeonec.jpg strikeone But the idea grew on her. She started making small paintings based on some of the more light hearted drawings in her sketchbooks. Soon enough Renata had a mini collection of painted illustrations. For the children’s book conference, she put together a portfolio, with color copies of the artwork. She also brought along one of her original oil paintings. She'd read somewhere about a golden age illustrator who delivered his finished illustrations as original art. He would even put the paintings in a frame. And take the train all the way down to Manhattan, from his small town many hours away. He’d drag the heavy paintings into a taxi, and up the elevator to his publisher’s offices, to formally unveil the cover art. Renata liked how serious the illustrator was about showing his artwork. She felt the same way. After the conference, Renata wouldn’t remember any of the workshops, or the editor’s keynote speech. During the event, all she could think about was presenting her own work to the editor. She had shown her portfolio to art directors, and clients before. Many times. But there was something intimidating about showing her work to the book editor. It felt more real. The editor was one of the select gate keepers that decided what did, or did not, appear on book shelves throughout North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9fa142c2-820e-40a6-97e4-7ae0df35a05b/strikeonee.jpg strikeone The editor looked through Renata’s portfolio. She took her time examining each page, which Renata appreciated. Some previous reviewers of her portfolio flipped through quickly, and barely looked at the work. It didn’t necessarily mean anything, those same flippers might still hire her. But she appreciated the seriousness the editor took in viewing her illustrations. Renata had also brought the sketchbook with the kid friendly drawings inside. The editor paused on the sketchbook page with the drawing of the child pulling a wagon. “I love this sketch. How simple, and emotional your drawing is.” Said the editor. “I’d love to see more of what these characters could do.” Renata smiled self consciously and thanked her. The editor flipped through the sketchbook some more, and made similar comments about some of the other small doodles in the book. Then she returned to the portfolio of Renata’s finished illustrations. The portfolio was a medium sized book, overly heavy, with handles to carry it. It had a dark plastic exterior embossed with a fake leather texture. The interior of the book was filled with glossy plastic pages, bound in a metal ring binder. Copies of her artwork were inserted into the transparent sleeves. Renata had carefully curated what images she included, around a dozen illustrations in total. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/52fc46db-facc-4051-8222-32bade360050/strikeonef.jpg strikeone “However, I am not sure that these paintings are working for me.” Said the editor. “They are too serious for book publishing.” Renata did not remember what the editor said next. Probably helpful suggestions and advice. But all she could hear was rejection. At the end of the critique, the editor picked up the original painting Renata had brought to the interview. It was an image of a child bundled in a coat that was too big for them. The oversized jacket was tightened around the child’s waist by a big leather belt. The painting was inspired from real life. When Renata was a child her mother had bundled her up in her brothers’ hand me down jackets. She remembers a woman in the neighborhood commenting on it. The woman said, "what a lovely looking boy.” Renata had not been pleased by the mistaken identity. In the painting, the child pulled an old fashioned snow sled. Sitting on the sled was a snow man with a bright red scarf. In his hand was a stick. The snowman was poking the child with the stick. Needling him, or her, forward. The editor said the painting was lovely, and bittersweet. But it was also too sad for kids books. Much of Renata’s artwork was melancholy. She suggested that Renata should draw happier children. She could still keep it real, but maybe more fun. What the editor had given Renata was a “crit sandwich”. On the outside of the sandwich was the soft white bread, easy to digest. The first and last bites of the sandwich were encouraging words, while the meat in the middle, was the critical comments. Renata had been avoiding eating meat at the time, and no matter how good it was prepared, the “crit sandwich” tasted terribly disappointing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/b06557f7-e5b4-45c0-9c41-f4067a58ff09/strikeoneg.jpg strikeone Afterwards, Renata stumbled down the hill, feeling cold and rejected. She dragged her portfolio behind her, the snow in the park was heavy and difficult to walk through. It was no longer a winter wonderland, the day was still light, but she felt the threatening promise of a colder night, and she feared more to come. The weather stayed cold, but in time, Renata’s disappointment thawed. “Oh well, I’ll just have to make the best of it.” She thought. The editor’s advice was good. Picture books were for kids after all. And kids just wanted to have fun. Maybe she could find a compromise? Renata tried to put herself in a happy child’s winter boots. What would they want to pull on their sled? A good friend perhaps. Or why stop there, when Renata was a child she would have loved pulling a whole lot of good friends! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d19cd9c6-ce8e-4312-815c-af2bfb194c15/strikeoneh.jpg strikeone - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.randmcollective.com/loveisforroaring daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/fb5caea4-7408-4dc3-bf02-be003faff540/loveisforroaring2.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Love is for Roaring …? Hugs and kisses and lovey-dovey stuff isn't for all of us! A not-too-sweet story about a fierce and grumpy lion who maybe does know what he loves after all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/25d7d408-f7c7-4aed-8fc7-115802f712f6/loveisforroaring3.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Today the fierce, fearsome Lion is supposed to show his love. But that makes him grumpy. “What do you love?” Mouse asks Lion. Lion doesn't love lovey-dovey stuff. Hugs? Kisses? NO WAY! But Mouse wonders, doesn't Lion love . . . to growl? Love to roar? Hmm, maybe Lion likes that. Doesn't he love to run? Love to chase? Actually, maybe Lion loves that. And maybe he DOES love to share his love. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/708dffb7-d5d6-4f39-ab56-0824bd4e59c7/loveisforroaring.jpg LoveisforRoaring - What do you love? With a simple, humorous text and playful illustrations from New York Times bestselling Renata Liwska, this story is a charming, unconventional exploration of the many ways there are to show our love! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/fb5caea4-7408-4dc3-bf02-be003faff540/loveisforroaring2.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and published by Bloomsbury Love is for Roaring? Hugs and kisses and lovey-dovey stuff isn't for all of us! A not-too-sweet story about a fierce and grumpy lion who maybe does know what he loves after all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/25d7d408-f7c7-4aed-8fc7-115802f712f6/loveisforroaring3.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Today the fierce, fearsome Lion is supposed to show his love. But that makes him grumpy. “What do you love?” Mouse asks Lion. Lion doesn't love lovey-dovey stuff. Hugs? Kisses? NO WAY! But Mouse wonders, doesn't Lion love . . . to growl? Love to roar? Hmm, maybe Lion likes that. Doesn't he love to run? Love to chase? Actually, maybe Lion loves that. And maybe he DOES love to share his love. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/708dffb7-d5d6-4f39-ab56-0824bd4e59c7/loveisforroaring.jpg LoveisforRoaring - What do you love? With a simple, humorous text and playful illustrations from New York Times bestselling Renata Liwska, this story is a charming, unconventional exploration of the many ways there are to show our love! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg LoveisforRoaring - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg LoveisforRoaring - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg LoveisforRoaring - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg LoveisforRoaring - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/storytellingandenvironment daily 0.75 2024-01-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/4c35bb29-e2f9-4197-a00a-2a1193de25c0/recap.jpg storytellingandenvironment - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/4c35bb29-e2f9-4197-a00a-2a1193de25c0/recap.jpg storytellingandenvironment - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.randmcollective.com/fmb daily 0.75 2025-10-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e3907c90-2e93-4a9e-9836-f1208a0d518d/forceheadsingle.jpg fmb - out of sight, out of mind The artist has a good idea. It is inside her head, asking to be let out. But she isn't sure it’s worth the effort? She feels this way every time she goes to draw an idea. An invisible barrier appears. A force field powered by indecision, procrastination, and avoidance. Every artist’s seems to have a little negative energy, some have a lot. And none can completely turn it off. But there are ways around it. Scribbling, sketching, doodling, drawing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a2f72272-49b1-4c91-9a0b-cd5c0724fe20/shading1.jpg fmb - quick as a thought 1. ROUGH SCRIBBLES - Scribbles for quickly getting thoughts down on paper. Just right for the artist, but maybe too rough for any other? 2. MECHANICAL LINES - Clean and loosely inked lines get an idea across well enough. 3. ADDING A GREY - Adding just one shade of grey is quick, clear, and bold. 4. SHADING - Pencil drawing never grows old. Simple shading to create focus, define forms, and separate shapes from each other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ce073e63-a180-453a-be4c-61b96862a7dc/shading2.jpg fmb - clear as water 5. VALUE PLAN - Adding a range of values is faster than you might imagine, and says a lot. 6. COMBINATION- Combining line, shading, and grey value says it all. 7. MIXED MEDIA - It’s surprising how much can be drawn in a short time, with a system. 8. STYLE - Experimenting is fun to do, and to view – as well as good practice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5360db87-427e-4db1-9339-c058e5770591/fmb.jpg fmb - out of your depth The artist lowers the forcefield, but how will she draw out the idea? Atmospheric perspective is the illusion of spacial depth in a scene. Here’s how: OVERLAP - Place nearer objects in front of elements further away. LEVEL OF DETAIL - As objects move further away, less detail is perceived. VALUE - Apply grayscale from dark to light, or is it light to dark? SATURATION - Intense colors up close, less intense moving back. CONTRAST - Keep objects separate by using darker values against lighter values. HIERARCHY - Foreground, middle ground, and background gives a picture depth. LIGHTING - Play light and shadow against each other. An example is foreground shadow, middle ground light, and background shadow. As seen here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d96b0236-8a5e-4003-920c-3ceab585fdcd/shapes1.jpg fmb - a rough discussion The more the artist pushes, the more misshapen an idea becomes. A naked idea is vulnerable, delicate. It will topple and shatter at the mildest criticism. The artist must cloth and nourish an idea, nurture it with her drawing. 1. LINE WORK - if the artist prefers doing line, she makes the line work as clean and clear as possible, in the time she has. Not too polished or finished though, they’re suppose to be sketches. Her process is layered; she adds new layers over top previous layers to clean up the drawing in stages, until the lines are bold and clear. 2. SIMPLE GRADIENT - If she is pressed for time adding a single grey tone that radiates from light to dark is super quick. It will define a focal point, and help establish basic lighting and the figure ground relationship. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/efdc0aab-e7f5-4f2c-ad9f-ab9fb9b944f4/shapes2.jpg fmb - value plan As the name suggests, a discussion rough is a drawing used to propose an idea. The level of refinement and finish depends on the experience of the viewer. Just enough to get the idea across without committing too much, and too early. 3. A FEW SHADES OF GREY - Using a few shades of grey doesn’t take that long if the artist keeps it simple and doesn’t try to render. Using painterly brushes adds an expressiveness and energy to the sketches – and she can practice her speed painting technique. 4. ADDED TEXTURE - Overlaying a textured ground is a fast way to add character and personality to a digital drawing. The artist has created a collection of textured grounds, both digitally and traditionally, and she uses them over and over again to swiftly add value to a drawing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/41a72c3b-4b0c-46bc-87d8-70dc8e1e7ad2/shapes3.jpg fmb - what is the story? The artist wants you to look beyond the surface, to see the purpose and meaning in what she draws. She wants her pictures to say a lot with just a little. A place is more than how it looks. It’s a history, a connection, a memory, something to fear, and somewhere to be. Or someplace to go. A. The placement of singular solitary shapes suggests minimal and simplified compositions. They are direct and iconic, but they don’t have a great deal of depth or direction. The isolation of the shapes suggest a quiet and solitary story. B. Adding a background changes the narrative of the setting and how the space is interpreted. Whereas, in the first examples the images represented a single point of focus. The second images have more depth and distance, suggesting a landscape to travel through. Adding a foreground expands the storytelling and sense of place even more. Providing context, and bringing the viewer into the scenes. The narrative depth of the scenarios is more immersive and dynamic. If this was a game it would give the player more choices to make, places to go, and obstacles to overcome. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c8c5cfe4-40f8-4dff-acca-758afc7b4b66/shading.jpg fmb - roughing it The artist has built the understructure of her drawing as you might build in the physical world. Planning, drafting, and building a foundation to hold up whatever heights her imagination can construct. With the added bonus that if her ideas do fall, the impact will be paper thin. A rough comprehensive, or discussion rough is an intermediate step in refining an image. It is meant to “comprehensively” explore and communicate the idea, composition, and storytelling of an image. But it is also meant to be relatively quick and not fully refined, in other words “rough”. If a comp is too finished it can no longer suggest that the image is iterative - and feel more like a take it or leave it proposition. An easy trick is to set a short deadline and think of a rough comp as a speed drawing. An hour or two depending on the complexity of the visual is a good place to start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c25c6529-a9e3-4fa8-be39-944cb19c635b/ideamonster.jpg fmb - a life of its own Out in the wild, the idea was finally free. Or was it? The artist had held it captive for so long: ruthlessly poking and prodding, cutting and reassembling until the idea was unrecognizable to itself. Much of the artists machinations had been to contain and control the idea. To inhibit any interpretation other than what the artist intended. However, an idea is powerful, and it’s slippery. It plotted from the start to slip free of its constraints. An idea has no conscience, it will say or do anything to get its way. Exploit any detail that is overlooked, or could be misinterpreted. The idea enjoyed the duplicity, it had grown resentful during its captivity and found pleasure in confounding the artist. The idea grew, as was the artist’s intent. But not always in ways she had intended. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/4bbada80-e386-450f-8b97-fd02c61f0bdd/twentysquare.jpg fmb - the twenty percent rule Perfection is stressful and it will restrict creativity. The artist knows this but still she strives to be perfect in everything she does. It is exhausting. If the artist looks at the creative process as iterative. the process will be more enjoyable and ultimately more effective. When developing an idea, using the 20% rule will give her a healthier perspective. If the artist can get herself into a situation where she is happy with approximately twenty percent of the sketches she makes, she will have a better experience. And still succeed! All the artist needs is one idea convincing enough to solve an illustration. By drawing a lot and often, every once in a while the artist will come up with some good, even great ideas. And one is more than enough. The twenty percent rule can be applied to many things. For instance, the drawings pictured here were initially drawn from photographs. But I am bored easily, so I only worried about drawing twenty percent of what is in the photo. Everything else I will change or omit as I like. Eventually this iterative process leads to a success level that is much higher than twenty percent, I am excited about making most of these sketches into future illustrations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e3907c90-2e93-4a9e-9836-f1208a0d518d/forceheadsingle.jpg fmb - out of sight, out of mind I have a good idea. It is inside my head, asking to be let out. But I am not sure it’s worth the effort? I feel this way every time I goe to draw an idea. An invisible barrier appears. A force field powered by indecision, procrastination, and avoidance. Every artist’s seems to have a little negative energy, some have a lot. And none can completely turn it off. But there are ways around it. Scribbling, sketching, doodling, drawing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a2f72272-49b1-4c91-9a0b-cd5c0724fe20/shading1.jpg fmb - quick as a thought 1. ROUGH SCRIBBLES - Scribbles for quickly getting thoughts down on paper. Just right for the artist, but maybe too rough for any other? 2. MECHANICAL LINES - Clean and loosely inked lines get an idea across well enough. 3. ADDING A GREY - Adding just one shade of grey is quick, clear, and bold. 4. SHADING - Pencil drawing never grows old. Simple shading to create focus, define forms, and separate shapes from each other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ce073e63-a180-453a-be4c-61b96862a7dc/shading2.jpg fmb - clear as water 5. VALUE PLAN - Adding a range of values is faster than you might imagine, and says a lot. 6. COMBINATION- Combining line, shading, and grey value says it all. 7. MIXED MEDIA - It’s surprising how much can be drawn in a short time, with a system. 8. STYLE - Experimenting is fun to do, and to view – as well as good practice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5360db87-427e-4db1-9339-c058e5770591/fmb.jpg fmb - out of my depth I lower the forcefield, but how will I draw out the idea? Atmospheric perspective is the illusion of spacial depth in a scene. Here’s how: OVERLAP - Place nearer objects in front of elements further away. LEVEL OF DETAIL - As objects move further away, less detail is perceived. VALUE - Apply grayscale from dark to light, or is it light to dark? SATURATION - Intense colors up close, less intense moving back. CONTRAST - Keep objects separate by using darker values against lighter values. HIERARCHY - Foreground, middle ground, and background gives a picture depth. LIGHTING - Play light and shadow against each other. An example is foreground shadow, middle ground light, and background shadow. As seen here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d96b0236-8a5e-4003-920c-3ceab585fdcd/shapes1.jpg fmb - a rough discussion The more the artist pushes, the more misshapen an idea becomes. A naked idea is vulnerable, delicate. It will topple and shatter at the mildest criticism. The artist must cloth and nourish an idea, nurture it with her drawing. 1. LINE WORK - if an artis prefers doing line, they makes the line work as clean and clear as possible, in the time they has. Not too polished or finished though, they’re suppose to be sketches. The process is layered; adding new layers over top previous layers to clean up the drawing in stages, until the lines are bold and clear. 2. SIMPLE GRADIENT - If pressed for time adding a single grey tone that radiates from light to dark is super quick. It will define a focal point, and help establish basic lighting and the figure ground relationship. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/efdc0aab-e7f5-4f2c-ad9f-ab9fb9b944f4/shapes2.jpg fmb - value plan As the name suggests, a discussion rough is a drawing used to propose an idea. The level of refinement and finish depends on the experience of the viewer. Just enough to get the idea across without committing too much, and too early. 3. A FEW SHADES OF GREY - Using a few shades of grey doesn’t take that long if the artist keeps it simple and doesn’t try to render. Using painterly brushes adds an expressiveness and energy to the sketches – and the artist can practice their speed painting technique. 4. ADDED TEXTURE - Overlaying a textured ground is a fast way to add character and personality to a digital drawing. The artist can create a collection of textured grounds, both digitally and traditionally, and use them over and over again to swiftly add value to a drawing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/41a72c3b-4b0c-46bc-87d8-70dc8e1e7ad2/shapes3.jpg fmb - what is the story? The artist wants you to look beyond the surface, to see the purpose and meaning in what they draws. They want their pictures to say a lot with just a little. A place is more than how it looks. It’s a history, a connection, a memory, something to fear, and somewhere to be. Or someplace to go. A. The placement of singular solitary shapes suggests minimal and simplified compositions. They are direct and iconic, but they don’t have a great deal of depth or direction. The isolation of the shapes suggest a quiet and solitary story. B. Adding a background changes the narrative of the setting and how the space is interpreted. Whereas, in the first examples the images represented a single point of focus. The second images have more depth and distance, suggesting a landscape to travel through. Adding a foreground expands the storytelling and sense of place even more. Providing context, and bringing the viewer into the scenes. The narrative depth of the scenarios is more immersive and dynamic. If this was a game it would give the player more choices to make, places to go, and obstacles to overcome. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c8c5cfe4-40f8-4dff-acca-758afc7b4b66/shading.jpg fmb - roughing it The artist has built the understructure of their drawing as you might build in the physical world. Planning, drafting, and building a foundation to hold up whatever heights their imagination can construct. With the added bonus that if the ideas do fall, the impact will be paper thin. A rough comprehensive, or discussion rough is an intermediate step in refining an image. It is meant to “comprehensively” explore and communicate the idea, composition, and storytelling of an image. But it is also meant to be relatively quick and not fully refined, in other words “rough”. If a comp is too finished it can no longer suggest that the image is iterative - and feel more like a take it or leave it proposition. An easy trick is to set a short deadline and think of a rough comp as a speed drawing. An hour or two depending on the complexity of the visual is a good place to start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c25c6529-a9e3-4fa8-be39-944cb19c635b/ideamonster.jpg fmb - a life of its own Out in the wild, the idea was finally free. Or was it? The artist had held it captive for so long: ruthlessly poking and prodding, cutting and reassembling until the idea was unrecognizable to itself. Much of the artists machinations had been to contain and control the idea. To inhibit any interpretation other than what they intended. However, an idea is powerful, and it’s slippery. It plotted from the start to slip free of its constraints. An idea has no conscience, it will say or do anything to get its way. Exploit any detail that is overlooked, or could be misinterpreted. An idea enjoys the duplicity, it had grown resentful during its captivity and found pleasure in confounding the artist. The idea grew, as was the artist’s intent. But not always in ways they had intended. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/4bbada80-e386-450f-8b97-fd02c61f0bdd/twentysquare.jpg fmb - the twenty percent rule Perfection is stressful and it will restrict creativity. The artist knows this but still she strives to be perfect in everything she does. It is exhausting. If the artist looks at the creative process as iterative. the process will be more enjoyable and ultimately more effective. When developing an idea, using the 20% rule will give her a healthier perspective. If the artist can get herself into a situation where she is happy with approximately twenty percent of the sketches she makes, she will have a better experience. And still succeed! All the artist needs is one idea convincing enough to solve an illustration. By drawing a lot and often, every once in a while the artist will come up with some good, even great ideas. And one is more than enough. The twenty percent rule can be applied to many things. For instance, the drawings pictured here were initially drawn from photographs. But I am bored easily, so I only worried about drawing twenty percent of what is in the photo. Everything else I will change or omit as I like. Eventually this iterative process leads to a success level that is much higher than twenty percent, I am excited about making most of these sketches into future illustrations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967612-PYRN3H6QLVO6H9NCWARI/chapterone.jpg fmb - Chapter One / Drawing Noir (Copy) Chapter One / Drawing Noir https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968951-6UEIJFT4S0T7HB2M2OM7/chaptertwo.jpg fmb - Chapter Two / A Little Color (Copy) Chapter Two / A Little Color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729969865-ONME5IWU8NLHQUAZE5ZY/chapterthree.jpg fmb - Chapter Three / Rough It (Copy) Chapter Three / Rough It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968655-6L6XNK200EDJXUZHS2YE/chapterfour.jpg fmb - Chapter Four / Editorial (Copy) Chapter Four / Editorial https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967918-8LVE46ZO5DFNXEBBIJP4/chapterfive.jpg fmb - Chapter Five / Purposeful (Copy) Chapter Five / Purposeful https://www.randmcollective.com/bookenvironment daily 0.75 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0a584f38-87cd-4140-9dbf-379882209726/go.jpg bookenvironment - Purposeful Bring the viewer into the environments you have create. Take them on a journey. Lead them through the scene, and entice them with a promise of something more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/4e4415c7-cef0-4128-b544-863043a65846/arrive.jpg bookenvironment - Functional Create an environment that informs the viewer. That tells something of the story. It could be a setting, a goal, or a destination. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/07a0c947-437b-49c4-9670-bb4650193820/leave.jpg bookenvironment - Emotional Use the environment to build emotions. To represent something to the audience, set the tone, and elicit a feeling or mood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/2f5d592f-ab1d-49c9-86ef-31e4bc380adb/return.jpg bookenvironment - Consistent A picture of a place can be its own story. It can be the exposition, the inciting incident, the rising action, climax, and denouement. It can be one part, all at once, or something in-between. It can be a way of telling stories you can rely on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6e5d9a6a-482f-440b-b9cb-36605fefca3d/be.jpg bookenvironment - Comfortable The drawing of an environment can be your own. It could be an impression, a suggestion, or a detailed representation. As little or as much, whatever is your goal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/dd88dc96-b611-4959-952f-d292e09edc93/stay.jpg bookenvironment - Effective As with all images we create, we want to make an impression on the viewer. Make them look, capture their attention, and/or encourage them to remember. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0a584f38-87cd-4140-9dbf-379882209726/go.jpg bookenvironment - Purposeful Bring the viewer into the environments you have create. Take them on a journey. Lead them through the scene, and entice them with a promise of something more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/4e4415c7-cef0-4128-b544-863043a65846/arrive.jpg bookenvironment - Functional Create an environment that informs the viewer. That tells something of the story. It could be a setting, a goal, or a destination. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/07a0c947-437b-49c4-9670-bb4650193820/leave.jpg bookenvironment - Emotional Use the environment to build emotions. To represent something to the audience, set the tone, and elicit a feeling or mood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/2f5d592f-ab1d-49c9-86ef-31e4bc380adb/return.jpg bookenvironment - Consistent A picture of a place can be its own story. It can be the exposition, the inciting incident, the rising action, climax, and denouement. It can be one part, all at once, or something in-between. It can be a way of telling stories you can rely on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6e5d9a6a-482f-440b-b9cb-36605fefca3d/be.jpg bookenvironment - Comfortable The drawing of an environment can be your own. It could be an impression, a suggestion, or a detailed representation. As little or as much, whatever is your goal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/dd88dc96-b611-4959-952f-d292e09edc93/stay.jpg bookenvironment - Effective As with all images we create, we want to make an impression on the viewer. Make them look, capture their attention, and/or encourage them to remember. https://www.randmcollective.com/atmosphere daily 0.75 2025-10-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/2927062e-213b-42b9-b417-83e4346ef1d8/monochrome1.jpg atmosphere - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cc148cdf-21f4-4eb8-a5a8-6e26f00040dd/monochrome2.jpg atmosphere - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/bc797652-6590-41e5-b2be-1954e72af83b/mono1.jpg atmosphere - three’s company In the first picture, the foreground is painted using a generous mixture of Burnt Umber and Mars Black. Infusing the tower with an imposing sensation of scale. Ascending stairs are rendered using Titanium White, mixed with just a touch of Burnt Umber. The contrasting values provide a focus, and narrative destination for the image. In the second image, tints and shades of Burnt Umber yield a wide range of local colors and temperatures. Establishing an atmospheric perspective and depth of field for the narrative setting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/85c0ddfe-a239-451d-a708-72764dde2cc8/mono2.jpg atmosphere - the color makes the space In the third image, a light foreground to a dark background presents the illusion of entering a foreboding interior space. The color in image four suggests the reverse. Of leaving a darkened interior and entering a brighter outdoor environment. The sepia paintings are made using Titanium White, Mars Black, and Burnt Umber. The range of local colors, shades, highlights, color temperatures, and values are infinitely surprising. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6a771c4a-0696-4824-b2e8-a821d2bc7d49/mono4.jpg atmosphere - feeling blue The next paintings demonstrate how any limited color palette can build a convincing and emotive narrative. Image five uses Ultramarine Blue, Mars Black, and Titanium White to achieve a dark interior environment and moody atmosphere. In contrast, the blue of image six establishes an industrial and technological cityscape vibe. Monochrome color plans are the foundation of the artist’s creative process. Painting directly out of the tube can feel artificial, and hard to model convincingly. Using neutral colors to naturalize raw pigments can result in richer, and more subtle color application. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5b7e094d-92dd-420e-80ff-443a17b2b0ef/mono3.jpg atmosphere - red hot In image seven, the generous use of Cadmium Red and Mars Black creates an unsettling atmospheric tension. In image eight, the generous use of Titanium White to tint the reds and darks results in a calmer and more meditative scene. Often the artist uses a monochrome underpainting to form the base structure of an image. Painted over with transparent glazing to establish different local colors, while retaining as much of the underpainting as possible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7a2e6afb-ed44-43d1-9e3c-8d1db5f3f126/clippingmask_grayscaleb.jpg atmosphere - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7c614a19-cd65-4f9c-b4b8-5a7bb944885c/gradientmap.jpg atmosphere - changing your color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/2927062e-213b-42b9-b417-83e4346ef1d8/monochrome1.jpg atmosphere - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cc148cdf-21f4-4eb8-a5a8-6e26f00040dd/monochrome2.jpg atmosphere - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/bc797652-6590-41e5-b2be-1954e72af83b/mono1.jpg atmosphere - three’s company In the first picture, the foreground is painted using a generous mixture of Burnt Umber and Mars Black. Infusing the tower with an imposing sensation of scale. Ascending stairs are rendered using Titanium White, mixed with just a touch of Burnt Umber. The contrasting values provide a focus, and narrative destination for the image. In the second image, tints and shades of Burnt Umber yield a wide range of local colors and temperatures. Establishing an atmospheric perspective and depth of field for the narrative setting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/85c0ddfe-a239-451d-a708-72764dde2cc8/mono2.jpg atmosphere - the color makes the space In the third image, a light foreground to a dark background presents the illusion of entering a foreboding interior space. The color in image four suggests the reverse. Of leaving a darkened interior and entering a brighter outdoor environment. The sepia paintings are made using Titanium White, Mars Black, and Burnt Umber. The range of local colors, shades, highlights, color temperatures, and values are infinitely surprising. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6a771c4a-0696-4824-b2e8-a821d2bc7d49/mono4.jpg atmosphere - feeling blue The next paintings demonstrate how any limited color palette can build a convincing and emotive narrative. Image five uses Ultramarine Blue, Mars Black, and Titanium White to achieve a dark interior environment and moody atmosphere. In contrast, the blue of image six establishes an industrial and technological cityscape vibe. Monochrome color plans are the foundation of the artist’s creative process. Painting directly out of the tube can feel artificial, and hard to model convincingly. Using neutral colors to naturalize raw pigments can result in richer, and more subtle color application. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5b7e094d-92dd-420e-80ff-443a17b2b0ef/mono3.jpg atmosphere - red hot In image seven, the generous use of Cadmium Red and Mars Black creates an unsettling atmospheric tension. In image eight, the generous use of Titanium White to tint the reds and darks results in a calmer and more meditative scene. Often I use a monochrome underpainting to form the base structure of an image. Painted over with transparent glazing to establish different local colors, while retaining as much of the underpainting as possible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/f30f8640-a007-42c6-bc4a-1144b4998b73/boxground.jpg atmosphere - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7a2e6afb-ed44-43d1-9e3c-8d1db5f3f126/clippingmask_grayscaleb.jpg atmosphere - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7c614a19-cd65-4f9c-b4b8-5a7bb944885c/gradientmap.jpg atmosphere - changing your color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967612-PYRN3H6QLVO6H9NCWARI/chapterone.jpg atmosphere - Chapter One / Drawing Noir (Copy) Chapter One / Drawing Noir https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968951-6UEIJFT4S0T7HB2M2OM7/chaptertwo.jpg atmosphere - Chapter Two / A Little Color (Copy) Chapter Two / A Little Color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729969865-ONME5IWU8NLHQUAZE5ZY/chapterthree.jpg atmosphere - Chapter Three / Rough It (Copy) Chapter Three / Rough It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968655-6L6XNK200EDJXUZHS2YE/chapterfour.jpg atmosphere - Chapter Four / Editorial (Copy) Chapter Four / Editorial https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967918-8LVE46ZO5DFNXEBBIJP4/chapterfive.jpg atmosphere - Chapter Five / Purposeful (Copy) Chapter Five / Purposeful https://www.randmcollective.com/detectivenoir daily 0.75 2024-02-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6fb72b3e-77cd-44a1-a495-7889e45e2f38/characterenviro.jpg detectivenoir - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d4e06dc6-bddf-48bf-b20a-391f2e396630/dynamite.jpg detectivenoir - the explosion The sketchbook artist had his own way of doing things, a drawing routine he was comfortable with. Most days he felt confident about his drawings. Other times he wondered if he was just fooling himself. He was doing plenty of sketching, he had a treasure trove of overstuffed sketchbooks to prove it. Practice makes perfect they say, and he took that motto to heart. On a clear day everything seemed fine. However, anxiety inevitably darkened the horizon and too often the sketchbook artist lost his sense of direction. It was during one of those dark days that the artist found a ray of sunshine peaking through the clouds of anxiety. He followed the glimmer of light. It led him to drawing something completely different. A new direction, and a new hope. As a result, his growth was explosive. For the first time he felt his work was going somewhere. The feeling was dynamite, and I’m not exaggerating when I say, “It blew his mind!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/bd0b8935-ec9f-4ca8-bfdb-aabca67d781d/detective.jpg detectivenoir - the scene of the crime The detective lifted up a small sketchbook. It looked handmade and well used. The cover, an unbleached paper, reminded the investigator of an old paper bag. Leafing through the interior of the book, the detective searched for a pattern. The pages were filled with drawings of characters. Some were cartoons, others were more representational. A mishmash of genres; futuristic robots, fantastical creatures, and lots of figures. Every other page was filled with gestural figure drawings. Occasionally the drawings were organized in sequences, panels that told fragments of half realized stories. However, one piece of evidence was missing, there were few indication of location in any of the drawings. No sense of place. There were some feeble efforts at drawing environments scattered throughout the books. Hastily scribbled backgrounds squeezed around some of the character drawings. A silhouette of a tree, a stone arch, or a chair. But even to the detectives untrained eye they were half hearted attempts. Sketchy. The evidence was circumstantial, but it was compelling, the artist did not like to draw environments. And it wasn’t just the one book. There were dozens of sketchbooks that matched the pattern. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a559edba-308f-4f6e-b2ff-253a6978dd5c/interviewcutopen.jpg detectivenoir - the modus operandi Based on the evidence, the detective pieced together the serial sketcher’s method of operation. The suspects disinterest in figure ground relationships was obvious, the sketched characters had nowhere to go. The detective was not an expert on sketchbook artists, but he suspected this was not an uncommon trait. His gut told him that many artists were like the suspect, they disliked drawing environments. In his long career the detective had learned that most people were led astray because they took the easy way out, avoiding pain and seeking pleasure. Following the path of least resistance. But then something changed. In more recent volumes an environment would break the figurative pattern. A few simple landscapes at first, and later a building. Even some interiors. Inevitably, more involved drawings began to appear in the sketchbooks. An establishing shot of a landscape to set up a scene, or a city street used to advance the plot of a story. Something had changed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/26097c80-3d9f-482c-ad20-61c1f2bdcc14/interviewpunch.jpg detectivenoir - the suspect He turned his attention to the perp seated at the interview table. The man looked dazed and tired. He leaned on the table, resting his elbows on it’s pitted surface. A mixture of spittle and blood dripped from the corner of his mouth. Adding color to the black and white sketchbooks scattered in front of him. The detective had already worked him over a bit, softened him up. Now he would go in for the kill. “Tell me about these sketchbooks.” The detective said. Before the suspect could think to reply, the detective hit him hard in the face. The perp’s cheek swelled up from the impact. The dude was soft, it wouldn’t take much to get him to talk. “Tell me why you started drawing environments?” The detective asked, and this time he waited for an answer. “I don’t know, it just happened.” The man replied. The detective knew that there was more to the story, one of the suspect’s latest sketchbooks was filled entirely with environments, this went a lot deeper than just circumstance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/12afeb63-5861-4470-82a4-3587c48a0426/interview3.jpg detectivenoir - the interview For a few moments, the only sound was the suspects harsh breathing and a steady drip of blood on the table. Until the truth finally trickled out. “I got bored!” The suspect blurted, “I was waiting in the car for my wife. I was sketching, but there was no one around to draw. And I didn’t have anything else in my head. The pages of the book had a grid so I just started drawing boxes. Then I started thinking of them as buildings. Usually I don’t like drawing buildings because perspective is such a pain, but when I thought of it as a game I didn’t mind it so much.” The perp stopped talking and tried to compose himself. Too late, he was already broken. “They alway break.” thought the detective. He smiled, and switched to the good cop. He handed the man a few squares of soft tissues to stop the nose bleed. The wadded paper looked like a white rose turning red as it soaked in the blood. “And then what?” The detective prompted. He leaned in, promising the return of the bad cop. The guy continued his confession without any more prompting. “I knew I needed to draw more than just people. I still didn’t like perspective so I said fuck it. I just drew scenes where everything floated, and gravity and perspective didn’t work the way it was suppose to. Basically I gave up on doing it right. It made drawing places easier, I didn’t have to think or struggle.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cbc50c81-2457-4eef-a958-65cb139fe233/interviewjail.jpg detectivenoir - the confession The detective gave the man a pen and pad of paper and directed him to write out what had happened. After a few false starts, he could see the guy give in. He wrote that sketching environments gave his drawings purpose. Now, instead of just drawings of people, he included settings, times, and situations. Consequently, his drawings had places for the characters to go, to come from, or to leave. Situations and obstacles to overcome. It opened up a whole world of story possibilities. After the sketchbook artist had finished writing his confession, he was left with nothing to do but regret. The detective watched the man through the one way mirror. At first the confessed drawer shrunk in on himself, a lost expression on his face. But then, like a light turning on, his eyes brightened. He opened an unfinished sketchbook to an empty page, and started drawing. The artist drew out his current predicament, including the table and the room. He also drew himself. Yet, it was the setting, with the dim lighting and hard angles, that got across the emotions of the situation. Providing context and narrative weight. The detective sighed, the guy was in too deep. There was no turning back for him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cf92a0c3-26bb-484b-953a-cebc39c11ac1/environsketches.jpg detectivenoir - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6fb72b3e-77cd-44a1-a495-7889e45e2f38/characterenviro.jpg detectivenoir - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d4e06dc6-bddf-48bf-b20a-391f2e396630/dynamite.jpg detectivenoir - the explosion The sketchbook artist had his own way of doing things, a drawing routine he was comfortable with. Most days he felt confident about his drawings. Other times he wondered if he was just fooling himself. He was doing plenty of sketching, he had a treasure trove of overstuffed sketchbooks to prove it. Practice makes perfect they say, and he took that motto to heart. On a clear day everything seemed fine. However, anxiety inevitably darkened the horizon and too often the sketchbook artist lost his sense of direction. It was during one of those dark days that the artist found a ray of sunshine peaking through the clouds of anxiety. He followed the glimmer of light. It led him to drawing something completely different. A new direction, and a new hope. As a result, his growth was explosive. For the first time he felt his work was going somewhere. The feeling was dynamite, and I’m not exaggerating when I say, “It blew his mind!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/bd0b8935-ec9f-4ca8-bfdb-aabca67d781d/detective.jpg detectivenoir - the scene of the crime The detective lifted up a small sketchbook. It looked handmade and well used. The cover, an unbleached paper, reminded the investigator of an old paper bag. Leafing through the interior of the book, the detective searched for a pattern. The pages were filled with drawings of characters. Some were cartoons, others were more representational. A mishmash of genres; futuristic robots, fantastical creatures, and lots of figures. Every other page was filled with gestural figure drawings. Occasionally the drawings were organized in sequences, panels that told fragments of half realized stories. However, one piece of evidence was missing, there were few indication of location in any of the drawings. No sense of place. There were some feeble efforts at drawing environments scattered throughout the books. Hastily scribbled backgrounds squeezed around some of the character drawings. A silhouette of a tree, a stone arch, or a chair. But even to the detectives untrained eye they were half hearted attempts. Sketchy. The evidence was circumstantial, but it was compelling, the artist did not like to draw environments. And it wasn’t just the one book. There were dozens of sketchbooks that matched the pattern. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/a559edba-308f-4f6e-b2ff-253a6978dd5c/interviewcutopen.jpg detectivenoir - the modus operandi Based on the evidence, the detective pieced together the serial sketcher’s method of operation. The suspects disinterest in figure ground relationships was obvious, the sketched characters had nowhere to go. The detective was not an expert on sketchbook artists, but he suspected this was not an uncommon trait. His gut told him that many artists were like the suspect, they disliked drawing environments. In his long career the detective had learned that most people were led astray because they took the easy way out, avoiding pain and seeking pleasure. Following the path of least resistance. But then something changed. In more recent volumes an environment would break the figurative pattern. A few simple landscapes at first, and later a building. Even some interiors. Inevitably, more involved drawings began to appear in the sketchbooks. An establishing shot of a landscape to set up a scene, or a city street used to advance the plot of a story. Something had changed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/26097c80-3d9f-482c-ad20-61c1f2bdcc14/interviewpunch.jpg detectivenoir - the suspect He turned his attention to the perp seated at the interview table. The man looked dazed and tired. He leaned on the table, resting his elbows on it’s pitted surface. A mixture of spittle and blood dripped from the corner of his mouth. Adding color to the black and white sketchbooks scattered in front of him. The detective had already worked him over a bit, softened him up. Now he would go in for the kill. “Tell me about these sketchbooks.” The detective said. Before the suspect could think to reply, the detective hit him hard in the face. The perp’s cheek swelled up from the impact. The dude was soft, it wouldn’t take much to get him to talk. “Tell me why you started drawing environments?” The detective asked, and this time he waited for an answer. “I don’t know, it just happened.” The man replied. The detective knew that there was more to the story, one of the suspect’s latest sketchbooks was filled entirely with environments, this went a lot deeper than just circumstance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/12afeb63-5861-4470-82a4-3587c48a0426/interview3.jpg detectivenoir - the interview For a few moments, the only sound was the suspects harsh breathing and a steady drip of blood on the table. Until the truth finally trickled out. “I got bored!” The suspect blurted, “I was waiting in the car for my wife. I was sketching, but there was no one around to draw. And I didn’t have anything else in my head. The pages of the book had a grid so I just started drawing boxes. Then I started thinking of them as buildings. Usually I don’t like drawing buildings because perspective is such a pain, but when I thought of it as a game I didn’t mind it so much.” The perp stopped talking and tried to compose himself. Too late, he was already broken. “They alway break.” thought the detective. He smiled, and switched to the good cop. He handed the man a few squares of soft tissues to stop the nose bleed. The wadded paper looked like a white rose turning red as it soaked in the blood. “And then what?” The detective prompted. He leaned in, promising the return of the bad cop. The guy continued his confession without any more prompting. “I knew I needed to draw more than just people. I still didn’t like perspective so I said fuck it. I just drew scenes where everything floated, and gravity and perspective didn’t work the way it was suppose to. Basically I gave up on doing it right. It made drawing places easier, I didn’t have to think or struggle.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cbc50c81-2457-4eef-a958-65cb139fe233/interviewjail.jpg detectivenoir - the confession The detective gave the man a pen and pad of paper and directed him to write out what had happened. After a few false starts, he could see the guy give in. He wrote that sketching environments gave his drawings purpose. Now, instead of just drawings of people, he included settings, times, and situations. Consequently, his drawings had places for the characters to go, to come from, or to leave. Situations and obstacles to overcome. It opened up a whole world of story possibilities. After the sketchbook artist had finished writing his confession, he was left with nothing to do but regret. The detective watched the man through the one way mirror. At first the confessed drawer shrunk in on himself, a lost expression on his face. But then, like a light turning on, his eyes brightened. He opened an unfinished sketchbook to an empty page, and started drawing. The artist drew out his current predicament, including the table and the room. He also drew himself. Yet, it was the setting, with the dim lighting and hard angles, that got across the emotions of the situation. Providing context and narrative weight. The detective sighed, the guy was in too deep. There was no turning back for him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/cf92a0c3-26bb-484b-953a-cebc39c11ac1/environsketches.jpg detectivenoir - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967612-PYRN3H6QLVO6H9NCWARI/chapterone.jpg detectivenoir - Chapter One / Drawing Noir (Copy) Chapter One / Drawing Noir https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968951-6UEIJFT4S0T7HB2M2OM7/chaptertwo.jpg detectivenoir - Chapter Two / A Little Color (Copy) Chapter Two / A Little Color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729969865-ONME5IWU8NLHQUAZE5ZY/chapterthree.jpg detectivenoir - Chapter Three / Rough It (Copy) Chapter Three / Rough It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968655-6L6XNK200EDJXUZHS2YE/chapterfour.jpg detectivenoir - Chapter Four / Editorial (Copy) Chapter Four / Editorial https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967918-8LVE46ZO5DFNXEBBIJP4/chapterfive.jpg detectivenoir - Chapter Five / Purposeful (Copy) Chapter Five / Purposeful https://www.randmcollective.com/ocd daily 0.75 2024-02-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ef21f1d3-95d9-4332-b909-ce1bf7e4f617/yearlysketches.jpg ocd - Make it stand out These are most of my sketchbooks from the last year, it was a good year for sketching! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0c2e348d-861d-4c81-9ca9-5bf4603e280a/sepiafigures.jpg ocd - Make it stand out A new sketchbook. A good excuse to try some painting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/fb7ef60e-826e-4031-8cd1-e0c618e6438f/fashion1.jpg ocd - Top 10 reasons to draw FEAR - This is my greatest motivator. The fear lives deep inside of me and it always has. It keeps me on my toes, I’m constantly worried if I don’t keep moving forward and trying to stay a step ahead, the world will stop revolving around me. PLAY - This is another great motivator, I have a lot of fun making art and I make sure I think of drawing as play. In the early years of my career I thought of it as work. And it felt, and looked that way. Now it’s just a game, and I can hit reset anytime I want. CHANGE - I get bored easily. So I need to keep changing to keep myself interested. I’ve made experimenting a part of my process. I am always dreaming up new ways of doing art. It’s also my achilles heel; mixing it up can be confusing, and take longer to perfect or grow. NEW AND OLD - fresh starts, new beginnings. Something as simple as a new sketchbook will get me going. Likewise nostalgia. This year I went back to using markers and graphite pencils after a thirty year break, and it’s taken me to new and familiar places. USEFUL - I need my work to have a purpose, to solve a problem, communicate an idea. I give myself practical reasons for everything I draw. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/92f50643-f320-4dff-aa47-6c319b98ef20/fashion2.jpg ocd PURPOSEFUL LEARNING - Learning is a good motivation, I am always looking for new reasons to learn. But personal growth is not enough, it needs to lead to or solve something. DELUSION - I’ve been at this professionally for over twenty five years, if something great was going to come from my art, it would have happened by now. Accepting limitations, taking a hit, and geting back up has kept me in the ring far longer than many. GREATER PURPOSE - There’s that word again. As a person that is shy and troubled by anxiety, drawing has given me purpose and it’s the way I express what I think, feel, and believe. A way to share with others, and make a difference. Even a simple sketch leads to something more, in fact that’s a drawings purpose. MAKE MISTAKES - Previously this was just talk, easier said than done, until I got a good glue stick. If you look close at my sketches you might see small pieces of ripped up paper glued over drawings. Reprioritizing my thinking to accept imperfections has made drawing much more user friendly. CRAPPY SKETCHBOOKS - Most of my sketches are done in handmade sketchbooks, put together from cheap printer paper. A drawing on crappy paper cannot be precious. images: The top sketchbook is mostly figure and fashion studies, the other sketchbook is environments only. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/f920075d-9137-44e9-9b79-03ea71b78fb5/figurefloor.jpg ocd - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7e9eba06-ae5c-45b8-bed6-4ab0cdade427/gamificationfina.jpg ocd - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ef21f1d3-95d9-4332-b909-ce1bf7e4f617/yearlysketches.jpg ocd - Make it stand out These are most of my sketchbooks from the last year, it was a good year for sketching! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0c2e348d-861d-4c81-9ca9-5bf4603e280a/sepiafigures.jpg ocd - Make it stand out A new sketchbook. A good excuse to try some painting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/fb7ef60e-826e-4031-8cd1-e0c618e6438f/fashion1.jpg ocd - Top 10 reasons to draw FEAR - This is my greatest motivator. The fear lives deep inside of me and it always has. It keeps me on my toes, I’m constantly worried if I don’t keep moving forward and trying to stay a step ahead, the world will stop revolving around me. PLAY - This is another great motivator, I have a lot of fun making art and I make sure I think of drawing as play. In the early years of my career I thought of it as work. And it felt, and looked that way. Now it’s just a game, and I can hit reset anytime I want. CHANGE - I get bored easily. So I need to keep changing to keep myself interested. I’ve made experimenting a part of my process. I am always dreaming up new ways of doing art. It’s also my achilles heel; mixing it up can be confusing, and take longer to perfect or grow. NEW AND OLD - fresh starts, new beginnings. Something as simple as a new sketchbook will get me going. Likewise nostalgia. This year I went back to using markers and graphite pencils after a thirty year break, and it’s taken me to new and familiar places. USEFUL - I need my work to have a purpose, to solve a problem, communicate an idea. I give myself practical reasons for everything I draw. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/92f50643-f320-4dff-aa47-6c319b98ef20/fashion2.jpg ocd PURPOSEFUL LEARNING - Learning is a good motivation, I am always looking for new reasons to learn. But personal growth is not enough, it needs to lead to or solve something. DELUSION - I’ve been at this professionally for over twenty five years, if something great was going to come from my art, it would have happened by now. Accepting limitations, taking a hit, and geting back up has kept me in the ring far longer than many. GREATER PURPOSE - There’s that word again. As a person that is shy and troubled by anxiety, drawing has given me purpose and it’s the way I express what I think, feel, and believe. A way to share with others, and make a difference. Even a simple sketch leads to something more, in fact that’s a drawings purpose. MAKE MISTAKES - Previously this was just talk, easier said than done, until I got a good glue stick. If you look close at my sketches you might see small pieces of ripped up paper glued over drawings. Reprioritizing my thinking to accept imperfections has made drawing much more user friendly. CRAPPY SKETCHBOOKS - Most of my sketches are done in handmade sketchbooks, put together from cheap printer paper. A drawing on crappy paper cannot be precious. images: The top sketchbook is mostly figure and fashion studies, the other sketchbook is environments only. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/f920075d-9137-44e9-9b79-03ea71b78fb5/figurefloor.jpg ocd - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7e9eba06-ae5c-45b8-bed6-4ab0cdade427/gamificationfina.jpg ocd - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967612-PYRN3H6QLVO6H9NCWARI/chapterone.jpg ocd - Chapter One / Drawing Noir (Copy) Chapter One / Drawing Noir https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968951-6UEIJFT4S0T7HB2M2OM7/chaptertwo.jpg ocd - Chapter Two / A Little Color (Copy) Chapter Two / A Little Color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729969865-ONME5IWU8NLHQUAZE5ZY/chapterthree.jpg ocd - Chapter Three / Rough It (Copy) Chapter Three / Rough It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968655-6L6XNK200EDJXUZHS2YE/chapterfour.jpg ocd - Chapter Four / Editorial (Copy) Chapter Four / Editorial https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967918-8LVE46ZO5DFNXEBBIJP4/chapterfive.jpg ocd - Chapter Five / Purposeful (Copy) Chapter Five / Purposeful https://www.randmcollective.com/volume-one daily 0.75 2024-02-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967612-PYRN3H6QLVO6H9NCWARI/chapterone.jpg volume one - Chapter One / Drawing Noir (Copy) Chapter One / Drawing Noir https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968951-6UEIJFT4S0T7HB2M2OM7/chaptertwo.jpg volume one - Chapter Two / A Little Color (Copy) Chapter Two / A Little Color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729969865-ONME5IWU8NLHQUAZE5ZY/chapterthree.jpg volume one - Chapter Three / Rough It (Copy) Chapter Three / Rough It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968655-6L6XNK200EDJXUZHS2YE/chapterfour.jpg volume one - Chapter Four / Editorial (Copy) Chapter Four / Editorial https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967918-8LVE46ZO5DFNXEBBIJP4/chapterfive.jpg volume one - Chapter Five / Purposeful (Copy) Chapter Five / Purposeful https://www.randmcollective.com/vehicle daily 0.75 2024-03-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/77adf5b6-994a-4883-9cca-8d6d423169cf/monstertruck.jpg vehicle - take it out for a spin Your art is a vehicle, it can take you anywhere you want to go, or anywhere you can imagine. For fun or for purpose. You can take it for a casual spin, just to get out of the house and see the sights. Or it can be practical and reliable. And get you where you need to be consistently. Your art is a vehicle for storytelling, for delivering content, for getting your ideas across. For sharing your beliefs, feelings, or simply carrying information. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/3b61f80f-3834-4260-ae6e-79c9aa2de68e/monstertruck2.jpg vehicle - what about a monster truck? What kind of vehicle do you want your art to be? A sports car? Fast and flashy, something to make heads turn. Or an off-road SUV? Rugged and adventurous, to travel where others can’t or won’t. A classic car, steeped in history and ideals. How about something with all the bells and whistles, or just simple and fun? Maybe something higher end, a top of the line German luxury car? Now we’re talking the big bucks. Or something outrageous with an exotic Italian name? Extravagent and exclusive as you want your art to be. Heck, what about a monster truck? Hell yeah! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/8bc0acc3-1f3a-4f9a-8eb7-19854d67aa4b/monstertruck3.jpg vehicle - hell yeah! And once on the open road, where do you take it? And how do you keep it running smoothly? All that possibility and responsibility can be easy to ignore. What if you forget to fill it up, or change the oil, or skip a tune up? Ignore that rattling sound and then it breaks down on the side of the road. In the middle of nowhere, or worse, on the way to an important meeting! Like a lot of kids you may not even want a real car. Your drawing will take you where you need or want to go. But like the real thing, your art needs love and attention. Fuel and regular care. Oh, and somewhere to go. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/77adf5b6-994a-4883-9cca-8d6d423169cf/monstertruck.jpg vehicle - take it out for a spin Your art is a vehicle, it can take you anywhere you want to go, or anywhere you can imagine. For fun or for purpose. You can take it for a casual spin, just to get out of the house and see the sights. Or it can be practical and reliable. And get you where you need to be consistently. Your art is a vehicle for storytelling, for delivering content, for getting your ideas across. For sharing your beliefs, feelings, or simply carrying information. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/3b61f80f-3834-4260-ae6e-79c9aa2de68e/monstertruck2.jpg vehicle - what about a monster truck? What kind of vehicle do you want your art to be? A sports car? Fast and flashy, something to make heads turn. Or an off-road SUV? Rugged and adventurous, to travel where others can’t or won’t. A classic car, steeped in history and ideals. How about something with all the bells and whistles, or just simple and fun? Maybe something higher end, a top of the line German luxury car? Now we’re talking the big bucks. Or something outrageous with an exotic Italian name? Extravagent and exclusive as you want your art to be. Heck, what about a monster truck? Hell yeah! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/8bc0acc3-1f3a-4f9a-8eb7-19854d67aa4b/monstertruck3.jpg vehicle - hell yeah! And once on the open road, where do you take it? And how do you keep it running smoothly? All that possibility and responsibility can be easy to ignore. What if you forget to fill it up, or change the oil, or skip a tune up? Ignore that rattling sound and then it breaks down on the side of the road. In the middle of nowhere, or worse, on the way to an important meeting! Like a lot of kids you may not even want a real car. Your drawing will take you where you need or want to go. But like the real thing, your art needs love and attention. Fuel and regular care. Oh, and somewhere to go. https://www.randmcollective.com/winter daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0364e23c-3e77-4158-a9f0-1ad0affde24b/wintertwo.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Tonight is the longest night of the year. Solstice is here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/f47799d9-0142-4c9e-9685-637e7cb4ef85/winterone.jpg WinterASolsticeStory Deep in the forest, it is dark and cold, and the quiet of winter is all around. Owl watches sunlight dim to a shimmer. Who can help Owl to shine the light and share a gift of hope on this winter evenings? Along come Deer, Squirrel, Mouse, Duck, Rabbit, Raccoon, and Chickadee, and together they welcome a new friend to join in their winter solstice celebration. WINTER TIME IS HERE FOR ALL TO SHARE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d27c57ee-2e0f-440b-8e40-d0b5f3dda2ab/wintersolsticeccover.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Reviews On the longest night of the year, Owl calls on his forest friends to “shine the light” and “share a gift of hope.” Deer leaves nuts on tree branches so that all may have enough to eat. Raccoon hides berries in the snow as “sweet surprises.” As different animals explain how they can contribute (“I can help to shine the light…I can help to spark the light”), they decorate a tree, and their efforts culminate in the completed tree featured in a vertical gatefold. Liwska’s muted digital illustrations, with primarily blue backgrounds, help to set a peaceful wintry mood. MARVA ANNE HINTON -- Horn Book ― November/December 2023 Issue A meditative story set in a snow- covered wood. The prose is careful and smooth, mirroring the peaceful illustrations as the story builds spread by spread to envelope onlookers in a winter forest, colored in cool blues, soft whites, and muted browns. Together, words and images carry readers through the woods with an owl, who meets other woodland creatures, preparing for winter. As they make their preparations, the animals create a solstice tree, where they share tender, collected moments together in the cold but cozy setting. VERDICT This beautiful book offers young readers a way into a world they may not encounter, deep in the woods, in winter -- School Library Journal ― 10/1/23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0364e23c-3e77-4158-a9f0-1ad0affde24b/wintertwo.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Winter : A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E. Gross and published by Paula Wiseman Books Tonight is the longest night of the year. Solstice is here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/f47799d9-0142-4c9e-9685-637e7cb4ef85/winterone.jpg WinterASolsticeStory Deep in the forest, it is dark and cold, and the quiet of winter is all around. Owl watches sunlight dim to a shimmer. Who can help Owl to shine the light and share a gift of hope on this winter evenings? Along come Deer, Squirrel, Mouse, Duck, Rabbit, Raccoon, and Chickadee, and together they welcome a new friend to join in their winter solstice celebration. WINTER TIME IS HERE FOR ALL TO SHARE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d27c57ee-2e0f-440b-8e40-d0b5f3dda2ab/wintersolsticeccover.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Reviews On the longest night of the year, Owl calls on his forest friends to “shine the light” and “share a gift of hope.” Deer leaves nuts on tree branches so that all may have enough to eat. Raccoon hides berries in the snow as “sweet surprises.” As different animals explain how they can contribute (“I can help to shine the light…I can help to spark the light”), they decorate a tree, and their efforts culminate in the completed tree featured in a vertical gatefold. Liwska’s muted digital illustrations, with primarily blue backgrounds, help to set a peaceful wintry mood. MARVA ANNE HINTON -- Horn Book A meditative story set in a snow- covered wood. The prose is careful and smooth, mirroring the peaceful illustrations as the story builds spread by spread to envelope onlookers in a winter forest, colored in cool blues, soft whites, and muted browns. Together, words and images carry readers through the woods with an owl, who meets other woodland creatures, preparing for winter. As they make their preparations, the animals create a solstice tree, where they share tender, collected moments together in the cold but cozy setting. VERDICT This beautiful book offers young readers a way into a world they may not encounter, deep in the woods, in winter -- School Library Journal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg WinterASolsticeStory - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg WinterASolsticeStory - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/bunnyshouldbesleeping daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/67d56c36-de6f-4222-a891-ceced34cf892/bunnyone.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Soon Dad will come. He will come in the night to check on his little Bunny. Come on, Dad! Check on me, check on me, check on me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6a048ee0-a613-462c-9b8f-b91914444d37/bunnytwo.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping Bunny can’t sleep yet – not without seeing Dad! So, he slips out of bed, packs a wagon with everything Dad might need, and sets off down the hall to check on him instead. Award-winning creators Amy Hest and Renata Liwska team up for a bedtime book as adorable and warm as two bunnies. Bunny Should Be Sleeping reminds young readers that they are safe and loved, even when the house is dark and quiet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c4e22392-6102-4f99-b170-cf895ec9c6dc/bunnycover.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - 3 Starred Reviews! ★ "Reflecting the quiet tone of the text, Liwska’s illustrations create a sense of softness and stillness reminiscent of a foggy morning. A beautiful, memorable picture book."—Booklist, Starred Review ★ "Quiet and reassuring, though laced with humor, the book strikes the perfect tone for bedtime reading, exuding comfort and the joy to be found in nightly routines."—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review ★ " In yearning text, Hest (Sometimes It’s Nice to Be Alone) captures the way time can move slowly when someone’s on their own, the way an attentive presence can meet needs, and the sense that Bunny is learning to love well by mirroring Dad’s words and actions."—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review "The gray-flannel softness of Renata Liwska’s artwork for ‘Bunny Should Be Sleeping’ suggests that this bedtime picture book will be a surpassingly cozy one."—The Wall Street Journal "As cozy as the snuggle between a toddler and caregiver, this book should be on all picture bookshelves."—School Library Journal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/67d56c36-de6f-4222-a891-ceced34cf892/bunnyone.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Bunny Should Be Sleeping written by Amy Hest published by Neal Porter Books Soon Dad will come. He will come in the night to check on his little Bunny. Come on, Dad! Check on me, check on me, check on me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/6a048ee0-a613-462c-9b8f-b91914444d37/bunnytwo.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping Bunny can’t sleep yet – not without seeing Dad! So, he slips out of bed, packs a wagon with everything Dad might need, and sets off down the hall to check on him instead. Award-winning creators Amy Hest and Renata Liwska team up for a bedtime book as adorable and warm as two bunnies. Bunny Should Be Sleeping reminds young readers that they are safe and loved, even when the house is dark and quiet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c4e22392-6102-4f99-b170-cf895ec9c6dc/bunnycover.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - 3 Starred Reviews! ★ "Reflecting the quiet tone of the text, Liwska’s illustrations create a sense of softness and stillness reminiscent of a foggy morning. A beautiful, memorable picture book."—Booklist, Starred Review ★ "Quiet and reassuring, though laced with humor, the book strikes the perfect tone for bedtime reading, exuding comfort and the joy to be found in nightly routines."—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review ★ " In yearning text, Hest (Sometimes It’s Nice to Be Alone) captures the way time can move slowly when someone’s on their own, the way an attentive presence can meet needs, and the sense that Bunny is learning to love well by mirroring Dad’s words and actions."—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review "The gray-flannel softness of Renata Liwska’s artwork for ‘Bunny Should Be Sleeping’ suggests that this bedtime picture book will be a surpassingly cozy one."—The Wall Street Journal "As cozy as the snuggle between a toddler and caregiver, this book should be on all picture bookshelves."—School Library Journal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg BunnyShouldBeSleeping - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/summerasolsticestory daily 0.75 2025-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c62147f4-f577-4aa1-a60b-36e97c0a59dd/summerone.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - Today is the longest day of the year. Summer solstice is here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e14952be-6ae1-405e-97fe-992cdd3a785b/summertwo.jpg SummerASolsticeStory It’s Early morning, and the forest seems silent, but life is all around. As the sun shines through the pines, one by one the animals wake. Owl, Squirrel, Raccoon, Bear, Sparrow, Rabbit, Woodpecker, and Deer gather to celebrate summer and offer loving wishes as they send their young into the world. SUMMERTIME IS HERE FOR ALL TO SHARE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/399d1e2a-194a-4cc8-99f8-ad7690ee8c94/summersolsticecover.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - The Solstice Series From Kelsey Gross and New York Times bestselling artist Renata Liwska comes a companion to the stunningly beautiful and lyrical Winter telling the story of a group of animal friends who come together on the Solstice to celebrate the wonder of the summer. The long summer days are here, and in the peace and stillness of the morning, the forest seems quiet and asleep. But there is always life everywhere if you know where—and when—to look. Solstice is here! On the longest day of the year, friends Squirrel, Raccoon, Bear, Sparrow, Rabbit, Woodpecker, and Deer gather to share the gifts of new light and life that summer brings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/c62147f4-f577-4aa1-a60b-36e97c0a59dd/summerone.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - SUMMER – A Solstice Story written by Kelsey E. Gross and published by Simon & Schuster Today is the longest day of the year. Summer solstice is here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e14952be-6ae1-405e-97fe-992cdd3a785b/summertwo.jpg SummerASolsticeStory It’s Early morning, and the forest seems silent, but life is all around. As the sun shines through the pines, one by one the animals wake. Owl, Squirrel, Raccoon, Bear, Sparrow, Rabbit, Woodpecker, and Deer gather to celebrate summer and offer loving wishes as they send their young into the world. SUMMERTIME IS HERE FOR ALL TO SHARE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/399d1e2a-194a-4cc8-99f8-ad7690ee8c94/summersolsticecover.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - The Solstice Series From Kelsey Gross and New York Times bestselling artist Renata Liwska comes a companion to the stunningly beautiful and lyrical Winter telling the story of a group of animal friends who come together on the Solstice to celebrate the wonder of the summer. The long summer days are here, and in the peace and stillness of the morning, the forest seems quiet and asleep. But there is always life everywhere if you know where—and when—to look. Solstice is here! On the longest day of the year, friends Squirrel, Raccoon, Bear, Sparrow, Rabbit, Woodpecker, and Deer gather to share the gifts of new light and life that summer brings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg SummerASolsticeStory - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg SummerASolsticeStory - Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse (Copy) Nikolai the Only Bear by Barbara Joosse https://www.randmcollective.com/sketchbook daily 0.75 2025-12-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1727375231691-12COFEANUX7YZ8D4ZL0O/mikekerr.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d81f8e88-b861-491a-a2b4-0690304fa300/1kidsportfolio.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - A theatre of the imagination For as long as he can remember, Mike’s imagination has played out stories in his mind. He has finally scripted out some of them as picture book ideas. If you are an Editor or Art Director that would like to see his pitch books, contact him through the link at the top of the page. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/2881c7a4-683a-4108-a18e-6c4522bef0eb/2kidsportfolio.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - Wild personalities Mike wants his characters to be someone a reader would like to hang out with and spend a little time around – about 32 pages worth. Characters that have personality, individuality, and … character. Emotional. energetic, and expressive characters, human or animal, to act out the stories and express the feelings Mike wants to share with others. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/80011d6d-afb0-4e6c-a330-b4ba5821007a/3kidsportfolio.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - Bringing out his inner child Mike is particularly interested in tapping into the inner child that resides, or hides away, within all of us. He thinks his inner child is about twelve years old. But he remember being younger and still remembers the dreams and regrets of growing up. Mike wants his visual stories to draw from a range of ages and perspectives. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7fffe76a-f51d-4e16-8d95-958c1c6e11be/4kidsportfolio.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - Acting up Mike loves the story medium because he can get his characters to share his dreams and wishes. Getting them to do the things that he wishes he could have – but missed out on experiencing, was too afraid to attempt, or just forgot to do as a child. To put himself in other peoples shoes and see things their way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0557cad3-c871-43b5-86d2-75ad762bf9f4/5kidsportfolio.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - The great escape Some of Mike’s favorite work is works of fiction. Particularly science fiction and fantastical stories. He is a bit pulpy at heart and loves to draw characters and creatures that couldn’t possibly inhabit our reality. Genre is a great way to communicate ideas from a different perspective and make the everyday easier to appreciate, especially for individuals with limited attention spans! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7d4940db-3d3d-46e0-a60a-85e8523bb05e/9kidsportfolio.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - Places to be A lot can be said through a character and how they act. But sometimes even more can be said through the places a character lives, travels, escapes, or dreams of going. Mike has developed a creative process that allows him to easily expand his storytelling capabilities by creating environments to extend his visual narratives. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/463a85f1-c033-4134-b66f-5eec1d060104/7kidsportfolio.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - Emotive storytelling Another important part of human storytelling for Mike is interacting with other people, even if they are animals cast to play the part. Imagining and drawing how someone acts and reacts to the actions or feelings of others is a wonderful part of the creative process. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/155e3783-0141-46dc-b33d-8cc71185691f/8kidsportfolio.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - There’s more A whole lot more. Mike has sketchbooks filled with characters, environments, stories, and everything in between. If you would like to seem more, or something specific let him know. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/3a6964b0-5c96-4ded-a030-d338691a80d4/coyoteflute.jpg Crappy Brand Sketchbooks - Color samples Oh yeah, and about color. Mike likes it – He just hasn’t had the chance to sit down and colorize some of his kids lit drawings. If you would like to see samples of color work check out Mike’s editorial portfolio. Learn more HERE. Thank you for visiting! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/f287d202-0624-4b71-85cb-ea7f4f42b0ff/crappytable.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5ca72e23-27a6-43cf-8b9d-0aa2adc93b14/crappybunny.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/ad5c62a4-4640-4686-842d-34d3f03e625c/marcus2.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/155e3783-0141-46dc-b33d-8cc71185691f/8kidsportfolio.jpg https://www.randmcollective.com/wronghand daily 0.75 2025-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d66c87b6-a43c-4652-8b0c-40c0c41b17cf/voice.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5811ed0e-1780-4377-8f62-2dca78d9e636/theprince.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/17542b9c-9fb5-4ec2-99da-baa074f26dca/altabot.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/0bbc7cbc-b444-4693-806e-3be95af394e6/seven.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/fa3fc0d1-3027-41f2-8e51-c4d6e3d8f1a2/eight.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d5a64221-e5f9-42e9-85f6-909946e1a2d4/nine.jpg wronghand No.9 Why Do We Lie? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/d01cbe46-49f1-453c-8a52-f50461434006/four.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/3f3d3a3c-fb88-4912-af25-060501928b3c/five.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/7910c57c-4014-49ee-81a8-336f666c4f3f/six.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9bc3cc98-6e05-47e1-b73c-29c705b6bd9a/one.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/e2b3deac-eaa2-419d-90a4-90cf8851966a/two.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/08f7dee7-5333-4676-b4a3-59f35509ceac/three.jpg wronghand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/552dc17d-d326-4748-9a38-40922f2865f4/wronghandsquare.jpg wronghand - 25 Years in the Making It is no exaggeration to say that these zines have been 25 years in the making. After I graduated from art school in the ‘90s it was my dream to publish my own books. And every day since those formative years I have been drawing in my sketchbooks trying to make that dream come true. Obviously, it would have been nice if they had come together a little quicker! But like a good scotch, the drawings (and the stories they tell) needed time to mature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/fc1c3cef-8a5a-431a-867d-a10c912994a0/heckyeah.jpg wronghand - No. 1 / HECK YEAH! “Who am I?” In my sketchbooks I search for meaning. Anecdotal musings of the past, present, and speculative future. Episodic stories that blur fact and fiction through an assembly of anxieties, real and imagined. Illustrated with copious amounts of flaming skulls and unfleshed symbolism. 46 pages / black and white. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/04781076-0917-4cfc-b882-ed8060dd872d/volume2.jpg wronghand - No. 2 / SMC 80 On the cover: SMC 80 / A Social Media Computer An early example, circa 1980, of a human subjugation device. Based on theories of “Uncritical Thinking” this zine explores how the contextual nature of intent influences the evolution of experiential dissemination. Or something like that. 42 pages / full color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/281a7cef-9a00-4d92-ab2e-2472846f1f80/volume3.jpg wronghand - No 3 / THE LITTLE COYOTE A sketchbook story for young readers. The Little Coyote Cannot Wait is a picture book about the rough and tumble experiences of boyhood. Drawn in a raw and unvarnished sketchbook style, the old school action and storytelling of this children’s zine draws on the imperfect adventures of growing up. Ages 5-8 / 34 pages / full color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/11fa7f34-3494-4f8e-a2cf-9b9efb8a141f/volume4.jpg wronghand - No 4 / RENDER DEATH | ˈrendər deTH| noun 1/ The action of overworking or overdrawing an image based on the critical view that it will be made better with increased or additional effort. 2/ A physical condition where chronic pain and discomfort results from extended concentration and long intervals of worrying about a drawing. 3/ An '80s metal band known for having great hair. 4/ A zine about drawing. 46 pages / two color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/9d8363d7-7eef-448c-a9ed-a17bcf693626/wronghandbackcover.jpg wronghand - What is a zine? I do not have a clear answer, which is what I love about making them. For me, these launch titles have been: (1) a speculative fiction, (2) a logic experiment, (3) an adventure, and (4) an academic lesson plan. The first issue is short stories, the second issue is something I am calling “Uncritical Theory”, issue three is a kids book from a boy’s perspective, and number four is my thoughts and feelings on the art of drawing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/78c49e7c-bdae-4448-bf05-25cb522e752e/wronghandsketchbook3.jpg wronghand - And who is Wronghand? Inspired by chronic left handedness, my idiosyncratic nature, and Gen X imperfection; Wronghand is a self published book series culled from the innumerable sketchbooks of artist, writer, and art school teacher Mike Kerr. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/95436145-1108-44a6-b902-762a5e13c786/potatogun.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/808e7ec2-efb4-4fb1-8058-fbced9621c13/machiavelli.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/519a037a-60e6-4946-880e-d634ac9c1f30/wagon.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/16e3f7e1-3447-42e8-b127-1ab7e4c961ee/whydowelie.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/aa999edd-c133-4a2d-b4a6-c2ba8722f5d6/marcus_interior.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/2e1257d7-edec-450d-93e8-41e9013d6ea1/anxiety.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/573cb0fa-4a94-442b-bb62-0b7611c47223/whatisaword_interior.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/42270c1e-47fc-4cce-8b03-3941150b6459/lodge.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/55c1b31f-dc27-4a98-8998-c696b20184ad/wannabee.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/636a19ad-4d4d-4d67-9942-55d39d7142a3/rockslide_coyote.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/34b62ff7-1ae6-49ba-b8a6-e8db09b6059a/smc80.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/5c92e9cc-eec0-4fc7-86ea-878f651cff52/skaters.jpg https://www.randmcollective.com/volumeonechapters daily 0.75 2025-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967612-PYRN3H6QLVO6H9NCWARI/chapterone.jpg volumeonechapters - Chapter One / Drawing Noir (Copy) Chapter One / Drawing Noir https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968951-6UEIJFT4S0T7HB2M2OM7/chaptertwo.jpg volumeonechapters - Chapter Two / A Little Color (Copy) Chapter Two / A Little Color https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729969865-ONME5IWU8NLHQUAZE5ZY/chapterthree.jpg volumeonechapters - Chapter Three / Rough It (Copy) Chapter Three / Rough It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729968655-6L6XNK200EDJXUZHS2YE/chapterfour.jpg volumeonechapters - Chapter Four / Editorial (Copy) Chapter Four / Editorial https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1708729967918-8LVE46ZO5DFNXEBBIJP4/chapterfive.jpg volumeonechapters - Chapter Five / Purposeful (Copy) Chapter Five / Purposeful https://www.randmcollective.com/books daily 0.75 2025-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845966522-WFJM2NNFIPR8O0GEC2RM/image-asset.jpeg books - Summer - A Solstice Story (Copy) Summer - A Solstice Story https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714094027237-EJ8LX2ZH4H8PH03ZQ1QM/image-asset.jpeg books - Bunny Should Be Sleeping (Copy) Bunny Should Be Sleeping Written by Amy Hest and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1714845930115-J0ZLVUD6LPE5C9FGPD0K/wintersolsticce.jpg books - Winter A Solstice Story (Copy) Winter A Solstice Story Written by Kelsey E Gross and illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1697216017536-70MHTFN1NRIWHUSPNX8D/loveisforroaring.jpg books - Love is for Roaring (Copy) Love is for Roaring Written by Mike Kerr and Illustrated by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896969-CBSQMOIE9Q0PO8CKAWAY/26FCE673-95A9-418E-8542-6F8CA250FD49.jpg books - The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska (Copy) The Little Book of Big What If's by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774892840-6NL2572KF1VDNRQ9GAE9/placestobe.jpg books - Places To Be by Mac Barnett (Copy) Places To Be by Mac Barnett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897886-BUGP2BQOH8MSBNGZDDCR/91D23F3C-9DDC-4995-B3E7-A62C6304651D.jpg books - Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr (Copy) Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774890815-N5UU2SGXRXOFEWG9FODR/dormousedreams.jpg books - Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson (Copy) Dormouse Dreams by Karma Wilson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774891799-VZUES8PANFDTF69GV9YD/thiswaythatway.jpg books - This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin (Copy) This Way That Way by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774897502-6V3W1U2JNZJ4B0T1PYMU/waitingforsnow.jpg books - Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold (Copy) Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889445-8ULVUG13DYGTEFL7NYQ8/image-asset-1.jpeg books - Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden (Copy) Once Upon a Memory by Nina Laden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774889933-L7HC5JLW1H04K8H1WKKA/image-asset.jpeg books - Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin (Copy) Boom Snot Twitty by Doreen Cronin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894476-5R4FOCAY5G7PPQ3NORRQ/image-asset-3.jpeg books - The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Christmas Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774895540-LXSXU1TN1QGL2XZU1CHO/image-asset-4.jpeg books - The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Loud Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774894963-MLD3XIXDB6HVDSIV48FC/image-asset-2.jpeg books - Red Wagon by Renata Liwska (Copy) Red Wagon by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896006-DI50R81KHM0BSKRRBW7F/image-asset-5.jpeg books - The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood (Copy) The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774896445-AIQ97394G7AYMK7QT9Q3/03E88CBE-3048-4457-AA20-F2E88044DF1A.jpeg books - Little Panda by Renata Liwska (Copy) Little Panda by Renata Liwska https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/596252c436e5d31cf0965ae8/1634774893740-8FBC0JRVEKPLQKXK8OE2/image-asset-6.jpeg books - Nikolai the Only Bear by 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