Collaborating with an illustrator on a book can be a rewarding but challenging experience for authors. It requires coordination, communication, and trust to bring the text and illustrations together seamlessly before publication. ArtsHub recently spoke with several authors to shed light on the process and explore the joys and challenges of adding pictures to their work.
Children’s literature, in particular, presents a unique set of considerations when it comes to working with illustrators. Lara Cain Gray, author of The Grown-Up’s Guide to Picture Books, emphasizes the complexity and sophistication of creating picture books. Contrary to popular belief, crafting rich characters and emotionally impactful stories in a limited word count is no easy feat. Illustrations play a crucial role in complementing and expanding the narrative, offering dynamic visual literacy opportunities for young readers. Australia’s top children’s illustrators are skilled artists in their own right, contributing significantly to the storytelling process.
The process of choosing an illustrator can vary for authors. While some may have prior knowledge of their collaborator, many first-time children’s writers are surprised to learn that they may not get to choose or meet the illustrator of their book. Publishers often make the decision based on financial and reputational factors. Authors like Coral Vass, Ashleigh Barton, and Karen Martin share their experiences of working with illustrators chosen by publishers or through personal connections. Some authors, like Shannon Meyerkort, are given the opportunity to select from a pool of illustrators recommended by their publisher.
Working with an illustrator can be both a joy and a challenge for authors. Trusting the illustrator to interpret the text and bring it to life visually can lead to exceeding expectations, as Coral Vass notes. Giving the illustrator creative freedom and trusting the collaborative process is key to a successful partnership. Authors like Jasper Peach and Shannon Meyerkort highlight the magical experience of seeing their words come to life through the illustrator’s imagination. However, sharing royalties and navigating the classification of the book as a „picture book“ can present unexpected challenges for authors.
In conclusion, collaborating with an illustrator requires authors to honor the unique skills of all parties involved in creating the book. Trusting the illustrator, editors, and other team members to bring their expertise to the project can lead to a superior final product. Letting go of control and allowing each contributor to contribute their perspective is essential for a successful collaboration. Working with illustrators can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for authors, ultimately enhancing the storytelling process and creating a visually captivating book for young readers.