Book Illustration
In 2021, my uncle commissioned me out of freelance to illustrate a book he wrote. (It wasn't intended to be published but rather to be privately shared with his friends.) Over the next 2 years, I used my illustration and design process skills to make the provided poetry into a 22-page book as well as a front and back cover. The story I illustrated was about a horse named Geoffrey who lived on a farm until Santa Claus accidentally brought him to the North Pole on Christmas. After spending 10 years working for Santa, Geoffrey returned home to help the farmer grow crops before winter started. This project is significant as it came out a big success, matched my favorite part of graphic design, and opened up a potential illustration style I could continue to use. For that reason, my goal is to illustrate books for more writers.
Process
In the beginning, I used my newly acquired knowledge of the design process to sketch the protagonist, Geoffrey the horse, in different styles, from sharp and abstract to round and bulky. I also experimented with other details, such as his mane, ears, and mouth opening. Moving on to the digital drafts, I then tried out different colors and patterns and got feedback from my family to determine the winning design. From there, making the pictures for each page was simple.
Step 1: Illustration Styles
Step 2: Detail Editing
Step 3: Final Details
Step 4: Digital Drafts
Challenges
The book illustration helped me learn about time management and being on a consistent work schedule. I had to balance working on this freelance assignment with school projects, which I seemed to put in front at first. In 2022, I attempted to continue working on illustrating the book and by the next year, I was working on it consistently each day.
Solution
Although I could have gotten done with the book sooner, I now have increased responsibility and perseverance. In addition, while this book ended with success, I have still thought of ways I can improve in my next book assignment, proving my continuous growth mindset.
Reviews
"This looks great! Thank you."