Q & A
You grew up in a family of artists—what was that experience like?
When I was a child, my dad did wood engraving in the dining room and had a Challenge proofing press in the basement. Upstairs my mom made her painting studio in one of the bedrooms. It was a wonderful way to live; there were always exciting projects underway, and interesting people to meet.
What qualities do you admire most in picture book illustrations?
I love artwork with a strong sense of personal observation and connectedness. Edward Ardizzone is a favourite. When I look at his work, I feel the presence of the artist at his characters’ side. Diana and Her Rhinoceros is one of my favourite picture books from childhood.
I also respond to illustrations that speak to the pleasure of their making. I've always loved John Burningham’s Come Away from the Water, Shirley --it's inventive in a direct and physical way. More recently I've discovered Kaya Doi's Chirri & Chirra In the Tall Grass--I admire the personal sense of creative joy she expresses.
What is your process for developing illustrations for a picture book?
Illustrating a story has much in common with mounting a production of a play. The page is a stage; the illustrated story is a performance unfolding. As an illustrator, you get to have your hand in everything—casting, sets, costumes, lighting, blocking. What could be better?
When I prepare illustrations for a picture book, I spend a lot of time gathering materials. For me this involves sketching—people, poses, settings, animals, plants, furniture, props--anything that might go into a picture. I sketch a lot!
Where do you work?
I work in my home studio in Hamilton, Ontario. Hamilton is an old industrial centre, and a place of great natural beauty. For an artist, it offers an incredibly wide range of visual possibilities.
Why do you love picture books?
Picture books are a special gift in a child’s life. The best books awaken the life of the imagination.
In our wired, complex world, picture books are a simple technology. They are a cover with pages inside, pictures and text. Simple things are beautiful.