We are approaching the end of September and everyone is progressing nicely with character and background studies.  Some are further allow than others but all in all everyone is doing well so far.   Now we start towards the next phase of the picture book process.  This step is generally called the "dummy book" (I didn't name it, the industry did).  It's the sequential layout of the interior pages done with loose thumbnail sketches.  This helps get an idea of how the book may look.  Some ideas may work, other may have to be reworked but the purpose is to create the best picture book possible.


For Monday's class - 9/25

Bring in your loose thumbnail sketches of the interior pages only.  You should have 6 thumbnail drawings for each page.  Really push yourself to do six for each page - The more ideas you put on paper the more you can choose from.  Ideas for some pages will be easier than other. If you're hitting a creative wall go to a bookstore, library, comic book store,  wherever you can find picture books.  Maybe you can see an idea that inspires you, maybe pick up ideas from other artists.   No cover or spot art, just interior images.

Your drawings don't have to be overly detailed, highly rendered.  Write down notes, any interesting thoughts that pop into your head.  Right now focus on interesting compositions.  Stay loose and relaxed.


Here are some good examples of thumbnail sketches.

Time management is very important so please be prepared with all the work required.  Being absent is not an excuse either, you can email your work by 5pm Monday.