Blast Off!

I created this piece for my agent's upcoming catalog, with the theme "Transportation".  I think every kid's favorite mode of transportation is imagination and a cardboard box! 

Riley Mae Books Released

My newest books "Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek" and "Riley Mae and the Ready Eddie Rapids" have been released by Zonderkidz!  I did the covers and the spot art chapter headers for these middle-grade chapter books about a girl named Riley Mae who becomes the spoke-girl for Swiftriver Shoe Company.  Soon she's appearing in commercials and magazine ads, and every girl in town wants to wear Riley Mae shoes. Well, except for Riley. Because walking in those shoes means missing out on softball season, making her best friend TJ mad, and embarrassing her new friend, Rusty. It also means sneaking around, hiding, and keeping secrets---because suddenly something isn't quite right at Swiftriver. But a contract's a contract, so Riley laces up her 'Rock Shocker' hiking boots for a climb up Half-Dome in Yosemite. Will they be the right shoes to get her back on solid ground?

 

 

As You Wish

Hi All!  Check out my first post to Once Upon A Sketch!  I offer tips and advice for setting the right goals for 2014 for your business and portfolio.

Once Upon a Sketch

Well, this announcement is overdue, but starting this year, I will be one of the regular contriubutors to the blog "Once Upon A Sketch."  This blog is a resource for illustrators which gives "insight, education and news about the many facets of the Children’s Illustration Market. From Children’s Books to Character Design, Game Art, Storyboarding, Toys and licensed Products you’ll find articles, interviews and resources to help fuel your education and growth. Jump in and learn more about the various industries from working professionals and find out what it takes to become successful in this field."  Founded by Wilson Williams Jr and Norman Grock, the website became a go-to for artists looking to learn about new techniques, new technologies and important news affecting the illustration industry.  After Wilson's unexpected passing in August this past year, the blog went on hiatus for a few months.  During that time, Norman Grock began looking for new and returning contributors to partner with him in order to continue maintaining and updating "Once Upon A Sketch", keeping it a relevant resource for artists. 

 

I am excited to be able to be a part of this great website!  Check out our very first group-post of the year, "What We Wish We Knew BEFORE We Started Out As Artists".  Also, next week, I will be posting my first entry about identifying and setting meaningful goals for our portfolios and our businesses to attract new clients and appeal to new markets.

 

Thanks for reading!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

How Can I Help

Hi Everyone,
It's been an exciting month for book releases! I just got a copy of my newest picture book "How Can I Help?  God's Calling for Kids" in the mail!  It was such a treat to open, and my daughter had me read it to her right out of the envelope. 

Also, Concordia Publishing sent me this video about how one dad/pastor uses the book in his own life.


Enjoy!

The Summer Fairy

Exciting news!  My newest picture book "The Summer Fairy" has been released! 

This is a story about a fairy who visits every year on the last day of school to help the kids kick off summer vacation.  Do you want the Summer Fairy to visit you?  Just pick a flower on the last day of school, put it in the vase included with the book, and the Summer Fairy will visit you that night...leaving you a fun summer stash in the morning! 

I was so excited to get my copies.  The book comes beautifully packaged in a plastic case with cloth flower petals inside and a reusable plastic vase inserted into the back cover.  If you want to invite the Summer Fairy to your home, you can purchase the book at www.TheSummerFairy.com.  Also, check out this book trailer that the author made.  I love how she showcased so much of the artwork.  Enjoy!