Illustrators Critique Group

One of the lovely things about being back in the US is reconnecting with illustrator friends. As the Illustrator Coordinator for the Southern chapter for over six years, I missed the camaraderie of like-minded peeps in love with picture books and knowledgeable about the industry in the US. So, I was thrilled to recently attend the Carolina's Picture Book Illustration Critique Group at the Barnes & Noble in South Park - an area in Charlotte, North Carolina. New friends awaited me.We met at 9:00am just as the doors to this friendly store opened and folks poured in. Once gathered at what will become a familiar spot to me, we took turns sharing recent works. Ashley Beloteshared her portfolio that she's putting together for the upcoming regional conference. Dy English shared character studies from a story she's working on. Johnathan Rosenbaum shared two graphic novels-in-progress. Leigh Anne Carter wanted help with perspective on a piece she was working on. And Chris Doehling (from Rock Hill!) shared some of his recent work, some very cool new watercolors he recently got...and a very cool book his wife (?) recently purchased in Germany.The book is in 3D and comes with its very own 3D glasses!When you look at the artwork through the glasses, it all comes out at you!Afterwards, Ashley, John and I went to a funny restaurant called The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar. It was a bizarre fusion of sushi and sliders, but very good! Of course, we gabbed and gabbed about children's books the entire time, and played with our drawing tablets.The waiter was quite taken with us and asked for references to find our books - too funny! Afterward, since we were right at the mall anyway, Ashley and I went to do a bit of shopping. (After four years in Scotland, I'm good on winter gear, but not so much on these mid-season needs!) It was so fun to just hang out and be silly - Ashley and I have decided to make a tradition of it... which we will when we all get together again next month. I can't wait!