I can’t believe it’s been 6 months since I last posted… whoops! In my defence, there’s been a lot going on (like getting engaged - eek!), and there’s still rather a lot going on, but all good things! Thank you so much for sticking around :)
Let’s have a catch up, shall we? I’ll keep this one short and sweet!
I made the decision recently to reduce my hours at my part-time design job and go freelance full-time again so that I can focus more of my energy on my illustration commitments. This wasn’t an easy choice, I just finally admitted defeat and knew that I couldn’t continue working two jobs in the way that I was, as I was rapidly approaching a full-blown burnout. Now is the time to re-focus and embrace more fully the exciting opportunities coming my way. I haven’t been full-time freelance for 3 years, so I’m looking forward to having a bit more flexibility whilst still working on the projects I’m passionate about, both as a designer and an illustrator.
So what have I been up to? WELL… I finished illustrating the first in a new series called Reggie Rabbit: The Great Carrot Heist. There will be 4 books in the series, and this one is publishing in May, so not long now. It’s been a real challenge as it’s a mix of traditional and comic-style spreads which was new territory for me, but the characters and the stories are so much fun, I’m having a blast. I’ve just started final art on book two, so keep an eye out for the cover reveal in the not too distant future!
In other news, I’m in the process of signing on to a 3 book series that I can’t wait to share more about. Here’s a peek from a sample I did:
I’m super excited about this one; it’s full of spooky elements and stuffed to the brim with detail. It’s going to be a LOT of hard work, but I honestly can’t wait to get stuck in. More on this one soon!
Roughs for Ace and the Animal Heroes book 2 are finished, so I’ll be starting final art on that shortly as well. There’s a new Wigglesbottom on the way, and another Famous Five is publishing in May. This will be my last Famous Five book as I’ve sadly said goodbye to the series, however there are more books on the way from another illustrator who is brilliant, so I’m excited to see those! I’m also about to start work on the final Libby, so it’s all happening!
In amongst the various projects, I started a little drawing challenge. I call it little because I only managed 22 days, but never mind, the point is that I really enjoyed it and it got me doodling which is something I struggle to find time to do as much as I’d like. I’m sure I’ll continue it at some point, once I’ve settled into my slightly new routine.
Right, I think that’s enough waffling for today, mainly because I need to crack on. I think I’ll put the kettle on first though, that feels sensible. I hope you all have a lovely Easter weekend, and I’ll be back soon with more updates and hopefully a cover reveal or two.
Bx
Congratulations on your engagement! And all the lovely book illos 🥰