Develop a portfolio as a children's book illustrator. You will learn the creative process of designing art for picture books, as well as build your design skills and stretch your imagination. Discover the magic of book making from simple concept to finished and portfolio-worthy artwork. You will learn how to transform basic drawing through personal style and use of colors to develop your own character designs by using visual details to create a compelling storybook.
In this Illustrating Children's Books class, you’ll master the principles of successful children's books, pacing and creating a story arc. Learn about the importance of character consistency, page design, sequence, type placement and the double-page spread, and how to design all details accordingly. Understand why it’s important to have visual variety in one’s book and then identify your own style and technique. While in class, we will discuss the legal and practical aspects of publishing and an artist’s submission package to editors and art directors working at publishing houses.
Did you know that instructor Julie Downing has published more than 45 picture books in her career as a children's book artist?
Sonoma illustrator Gianna Marino, a graduate of our program, teams up with Chelsea Clinton on a children’s book called Don’t Let Them Disappear.
