I decided that I would like some peer review from fellow writers and illustrators.
I wasn't expecting much as this is the first initial concept drawing created by my illustrator.
I began the process of placing his drawing on several media platforms. I belong to several Children's books and illustrators groups. These groups have been very supportive in helping me explore ideas.
I placed the drawing in the group a few days ago and attained some great feedback, which I have collected below.
The drawing was only on for a few hours and the feedback was mainly positive. There were a couple of individuals who had issue with me placing the illustrators work on there. One I had explained the project, they seemed to be more understanding. It does raise this certain ethics for my project; what can I share with others? Who will this effect?
As you will see from the feedback below, most thought the drawing were:
"Beautiful" and "kind and quirky".
"She suits the age group".
"Perfect age group".
Facial expressions, seemed a little harsh
"Seems rough around the edges".
"Bright and upbeat".
"Cute".
"Great eyes".
"Open, honest and sweet"
"The expression is showing surprise".
"Darling!".
I was very pleased with these comments, however I was dissecting every word to explore and thoughts that might push the project further. There were some in the groups that found characteristics of the face a little bit creepy and scary. In truth, I tend to agree with them, however I do believe with slight tweaking that this can be corrected.
With the comments below, I began to feel very defensive to the illustrators work but there were more than a few that didn't like the chin! (I concur).
"The face isn't friendly".
"The joint circles could be erased and her chin too".
Consider a "more subtle style for such deep and serious topics".
"The eyes could use more sensitivity".
"A softer, sweeter character would be more befitting".
"Creepy and clown scary face".
Most people said that emotion is crucial. This is something I will work on with the illustrator. My initial first thoughts were that the image was almost too comical.
Overall, there is a lot of love for this character and everyone that has seen this illustration has said her hair should be red!
Self reflection
This has been a great opportunity for me to get an insight into what these industry specialists believe will work with the style and tone of the book. At this point it is important for me to get this validation from people who have been through the process. I'm very much looking forward to what the next iteration brings.
The next step is to meet with the illustrator and discuss this feedback in more depth. We have already decided that the nose should be more rounded and after this feedback we will definitely use lighter tones for all of the visuals. I'm excited as to where it goes next as I've learnt so much over the past few months. This new knowledge has enabled me to begin to understand the professional expectations that are required, if I intend to make this project have a successful outcome .
Of course so far, this is a simple pencil drawing and there will be many changes I'm sure until I am happy withe outcome, (or as near as happy). The one point the stuck out for me was someone commenting that "Softer tones could suit the sensitive theme of the book." This will be key in bringing to life not only the character but making sure I deliver the intended themes. It will be a fine line but a line that I will enjoy walking.
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