SCBWI Summer Conference Portfolio Showcase: Open For Viewing!

The SCBWI Summer Conference Portfolio Showcase is now open for public viewing! According to TeMika Grooms, this year there are 154 portfolios from around the globe, and a "variety of styles and media used to create stellar pieces of art."

Even if you aren't an illustrator, I encourage you to browse some of the amazing art. You can also show your support for your fellow creators by helping to promote this showcase in your social media. When you do, be sure to use the conference hashtag #scbwiSummer24. Gentle reminder: Never scoop and share an illustrator's art in social media unless you have their permission, especially if the image you're sharing does not have their info included.

Speaking of illustrators, isn't Francesca Mahaney's conference art fantastic? Feel free to check out the pre-conference interview with this talented young illustrator about how she was invited to be the official conference illustrator, her creative process, and what kind of illustration work she's currently seeking.

If you're participating in this year's Showcase: CONGRATS for putting yourself out there, whether or not you end up winning a prize. Putting together a portfolio can be a valuable learning experience. Find inspiration from other creatives as you browse portfolios. Many, MANY publishing professionals will be seeing your work. Also, the SCBWI keeps a record of the illustrators who participate in Showcases and refers to the list throughout the year when they are looking for members to do SCBWI-commissioned work.

Curious about the history of the SCBWI Portfolio Showcase? Read this behind-the-scenes post.

As much fun as it is to browse portfolios in person, there are advantages to browsing a virtual portfolio showcase. Here are just a few:

1. You can take your time and enjoy the art from the comfort of your own home.

2. You can search by name or keyword.

3. It's easy to click through and find out more about the illustrator.

After you click on "full submission", click on the Member name to be taking to their SCBWI page.

Have fun browsing! I have a special fondness for the SCBWI Summer Conference Portfolio Showcase because it's the event that jumpstarted my career in children's book illustration.

The Portfolio Showcase Winners will be announced on Saturday.

Related: Index of 2024 SCBWI Summer Conference Posts, Portfolio Showcase Awards.