For a month and a half, I had the opportunity to submit illustrations for a book competition. Whilst I was unsuccessful, I had learnt a lot of things during the process.
What follows are key points that I learnt along the way.
1. Follow your gut
Due to time constraints of my daily life (daddy-daughter days, family commitments and looking for work), I had to find a way to maximise my time. And whilst definitely planning a head was a key factor, my attitude of backing myself was critical.
What I mean is, to believe in your ideas and then move forward. So much of your efforts are underpinned by your beliefs. Beliefs like, can I do this!!! When I was developing thumbs for the story, I was constantly thinking if it was the right idea. And as much as ideas can definitely change, there comes a point where you need to just 'seal the deal' and back yourself.
I still believe that even after not successfully winning the competition, I did the best that I could with what I had done. This choice to follow your gut (back yourself), to me is critical.
2. Allow your art to breathe
This point definitely complements the previous, but what it does is allows you to see your art with fresh eyes. Been able to step away from your drawings, even for a day, a few hours, really helps to re-set your vision. Obstacles that came up, and there were many, are managed by simply having a break. Many times I had serendipitous moments where an idea had formed - away from the drawing board. Away from the pressures of not getting it right the first time. Which is a crazy way to think. But oh-boy, have I had to learn that the hard way.
Much of creativity flows organically. And not necessarily all in one shot, at your desk drawing. Take breaks, often. Breathe.
3. OneNote, your friend
Ok, so there was some intensive planning too. Plan to plan. The last two points mentioned above definitely aided in releasing levels of anxiety. Planning however is the 'how are we going to do this'. And thats where OneNote (Microsoft) comes in. Its just awesome.
Some examples of the awesomeness of OneNote.
- Ok, lets breakdown how many days I have to complete this competition, OneNote.
- Where do I find out how to best setup margins and crops for a dummy page. I need to make a note to remember this, OneNote.
- Must remember to re-read the script and then have it ready for dummy pages, OneNote.
- Don't forget to schedule for the rendered two page spread, OneNote.
Ok, hopefully you get the idea. Planning the project is critical. How to best plan, organise and just remember things, OneNote.
In closing, I really felt a sense of accomplishment at completing a submission for a story. Certainly if I had more time I would change things, but overall I was confident of what I had produced. And ultimately it has reassured me that I would love to continue working towards the children's book market. Who knows, maybe even sell my own children's book one day?
