Friday, October 10, 2008

Day 4 interview- Dani Jones

Interview Day 4







Roz Fulcher:
What did you learn from this great project that has helped you on the
assignments you are currently working on?


Dani:
I was still struggling stylistically when I received Mariachi. The book was on my desk for about a year, and I learned a lot in that time period. I did quite a bit of experimenting with textures and methods. I worked a lot on character and composition. Nowadays I feel a lot more comfortable with my work, and I think this book has been pivotal in helping me get to that point.

PBJ’s: What advice would you give other illustrators interested in illustrating picture books?

Dani:
I see a lot of artists who can produce great pictures, but struggle with some of the most basic skills for picture books - fun characters, consistency, pacing, action, layout, storytelling, sense of humor, etc. If you want to get into this business, your portfolio has to show more than just one painting after another - you have to convince the editors and art directors that you have the capabilities they are looking for, which involves a lot more than skills with a paintbrush.


Dani, thanks so much for taking the time to share your experience with us. We just love your work and all you do to help fellow illustrators grow and learn in this field. We wish you continued success!

See you on Sunday, when the winner will be annouced to the drawing of a free signed copy of Mariachi! (Have you submitted your answer for a chance to win? What are you waiting for, join in the fun!)



Book Giveaway Question:

"In what Mexican state did mariachi music originate?"


A. Sonora
B. Jalisco
C. Durango



(Please leave your anwer in the comments section.)

6 comments:

Dani said...

You're welcome. I've enjoyed my time here with the PB Junkies!

Alicia Padrón said...

Wow Dani, I have to say this has been an amazing interview. I loved reading your honest and helpful answers to our questions. Thanks so much for sharing this with us! :o)

Unknown said...

How is it that a junkie like me is just now finding this blog? The answer is B. I looked it up.

Debbie Meyer said...

Thanks PBJ ladies for a super fun interview with Dani. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Here's a little mood music I found on Youtube to help celebrate Dani's new book. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvKf6-fSM08

Congratulations, Dani! I love it!

Deb

(It's B, Jalisco!!! How do you say "Pick me!" in Spanish???)

Alicia Padrón said...

Escójeme a a mi!!

Thanks Debbie! :o)

Gina Perry said...

As always, sound advice and insight from Dani. Thank you so much for doing the interview and sharing a book with a PBJ reader. Congratulations on Mariachi's release - I can't wait to get my own copy!