ILLUSTRATOR noun il·​lus·​tra·​tor ˈiləˌstrātə(r) -ātə- also ə̇ˈləˌs- plural -s : one that illustrates specifically : an artist that makes illustrations (as for books, magazines, advertising copy), "YES, I AM WHAT I AM..."

I've been a children's book illustrator for a while now. There's been so many changes through the years; evolving from traditional media to digital art, competing with stock imagery and now we're looking at you, Artificial Intelligence! Books need to compete with screens, organized activities and a world of choices to win over a kid's heart these days.

I used to use my own children for photo reference. Now they're grown and I see the world through my grandchildren's eyes. So life goes on, some things change, some stay the same.

Below are some images from books in the works; chapter books, picture books and board books. I still love all aspects of illustrating children's books, despite the challenges. Creating books for kids is the best life!

Luna Loves Space, written by Tracy Blom, book 2 in Wonderlens Friends Series

Jericho the Painted Pony, You're Not Alone, written by Edward H. Cooke

Wilma's Worm, written by Nancy Oswald, (looking for a publisher...)

Good Night Fireflies, written by Tammy Wilson

Please drop by the Denver Botanical Gardens on April 19, 2026 from noon to 3pm. I'll be there along with Brittany Cicchese, Jolene Gutierrez and Carmela LaVigna Coyle, all local children's book creators.

Meet Authors and Illustrators at Rooted in Reading | Denver Botanic Gardens

 We'll have story time, family activities, book signings and more. It'll be fun!

Thanks for taking the time to scroll through my  Studio With A View Blog. 

You can click on an image for more information or to enlarge for viewing details. 

Cathy