Art Directors Panel: The Changing Landscape in Children's Publishing For Illustrators
Q: What is a recent book project that you've enjoyed working on?
A: Mela is specifically an illustrator agent, representing over 60 illustrators from all over the world. The last few projects that were fun to work on were some Little Golden Books, having worked on some sports biographies.
Q: On market trends: Are you seeing any trends?
A: On thinking about the type of projects coming in, Mela is seeing more diverse books/countries of origin but that may be almost ending. There are a lot of graphic novels coming from everybody, and a lot of biographical books to cater to more institutional markets since biographies have no shelf life.
Q: How do you normally find artists?
A: "Honestly, I find them everywhere!" Typically on social media, she follows artists to keep up-to-date with them and their work. She browses directory websites but most of the time, she asks her colleagues or other artists for recommendations/ referrals. Being in New York, Mela has found artists at school visits when she is invited to galleries. And of course, SCBWI!
Q: On Portfolios: What are some portfolio basics for you and what makes a portfolio stand out?
A:
Portfolio basics:
- Can you draw the human form?
- Body portions: Hands, and feet are extremely important to Mela.
- Body positioning: Making sure they don't look awkward and that they have a spacial voice in the piece.
- Facial expressions: Range of emotions, interaction between characters, can you tell a story with multiple characters within a scene?
Q: How are you receiving your submissions? Digital? Postcards?
A: Both, but most come through as digital queries. She definitely likes postcards even though we have moved to digital more.
Q: On Submissions: Are you accepting? How do you like to receive submissions?
A: Ideally, for Mela, digital works very well. You can send a website! She also loves short bios to give her an idea of who you are, and what you like to do. Cultural background is important as well, since it affects the illustrator's work and perspective. Always looking for new clients!
Q: On working with an illustrator: What other base skills, beyond being an artist, do you wish to see in your clients/potential clients?
A: Mela: Adaptability and openness to growth. As an artist, you cannot be stagnant. Things change every year and artists should evolve as well. If you don't adapt, you can get stuck. Being an illustrator, you have to try new things. You may fail, you might succeed but you have to try. If you stop growing, you're closing off creativity coming into your being.
Q: How often should illustrators update their portfolio?
A: To clarify, what Mela means by growing your portfolio is that you should see what is happening in the industry and incorporate it into your art. Don't change your work drastically but use your style to grow with the industry. You should have a well-rounded portfolio that is living; retire pieces as needed, build upon what speaks to you and your voice, and adapt as the industry grows.
Q: What can artists do while they are developing their portfolio/skills? Other streams of income?
A: If you're developing your portfolio, but are not yet ready, you can work in a creative field so it can give you inspiration and help cultivate work. Surround yourself with things that inspire you and dive into the industry so you can find what works best for you and your style. Keep a thumb on the pulse of what is happening to help you find and know your niche.
Q: How much are agents and editors involved in marketing illustrators?
A: As an illustrator agent, Mela finds that school visits are great, but as an agent, she has nothing to do with marketing. It is the illustrator's responsibility because they have to incorporate it into their life and schedule. Get creative! Definitely promote your books by going to libraries and bookstores, having readings in-person or even, digitally.
About
Mela Bolinao has a B.A. degree in Art History with a concentration in Visual Arts from Barnard College. She is the agent for MB Artists who represents illustrators whose work is primarily intended for the juvenile market in books, editorial publications, licensed merchandise, advertising, toys, game boards or other applications. The agency currently represents over 60 children's book illustrators in the United States, Columbia, Argentina, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Brazil, Singapore, Bulgaria, France, Canada, England, Malaysia, Japan, Mexico, Philippines, and Italy. The majority of the artists represented have many years of professional experience, while some are the emerging talents of tomorrow. All are dedicated to the art of illustrating for children.
No comments:
Post a Comment