I created my book Dream Snow after a two year “sabbatical” from making picture books. During this time away, I created abstract art out of my painted tissue papers. I also used other materials such as silk fabric, plate glass, aluminum foil, and plastic sheathing. When I started making books again, I created Dream Snow, the story of a farmer and his animals, and a celebration of Christmas. You might have noticed that instead of a white background the animals in this book are set in front of bright colorful swatches of painted tissue papers as background.
This was a change from my previous way of working. My time away making abstract art was influencing my book art.
I had always been reluctant about making a Christmas book, but when the idea for my book Dream Snow came to me it seemed impossible to resist.
Thanks for your insight. I hope the holidays are merry and bright for you and yours.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! I particularly love the horse and the colorful ground he's standing on.
ReplyDeleteabsolutely beautful!
ReplyDeleteThe images are amazing! I love the abstract influences found in your art.
ReplyDeleteI love it
ReplyDeleteWe first read this book with my 2 year old daughter this past summer. She LOVED it. Now whenever I ask her, "What did you dream about last night?" She says, 'SNOW!' Thank you for writing it and creating such beautiful pictures to go with it.
ReplyDeleteWe read this story all year long. . .my boys love to uncover the animals and say "night night pig!" "night night horsie!"
ReplyDeleteAround our house we're awfully glad you didn't resist. We enjoy it immensely. Thank you also for sharing some insight into your making it. It's fun to share with my older boys. They still enjoy it but it's much easier for them to say they're re-reading a picture book to see how the author's art has progressed. :)
ReplyDeleteAround our house we're awfully glad you didn't resist. We enjoy it immensely. Thank you also for sharing some insight into your making it. It's fun to share with my older boys. They still enjoy it but it's much easier for them to say they're re-reading a picture book to see how the author's art has progressed. :)
ReplyDeleteI have added this book to my son's Christmas list - it's his first Christmas so I know he's a bit young (will be just over a month) but I believe it's never too early to start reading to your child.
ReplyDeleteSarah Butland
www.SarahButland.com
I teach Kindergarten and First Grade in Greensboro and my children are so excited to learn about you! They will be even more excited when they discover you have your own blog just like our class does. If you have a chance, check out some of our excitement for learning!
ReplyDeletewww.mrmjsblog.edublogs.org
HO thrilled I was to see you have a blog, Eric. I am a music teacher who uses your books in class. Better yet, my 3 year old daughter in Maine sent me a video of herself reading "Brown Bear, Brown Bear" Timeless!Naturally I'm sharing "Dream Snow" with her.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! ur books and illustration way is always inspiring and amzingly unique.Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.Wish you a very happy holidays and a prosperous healthy new year.
ReplyDeleteSeema Ibrahim
I am amazed at your art! I love that you have chosen to use a medium such as tissue paper to create - it is so fun to share with preschoolers and let them try too!
ReplyDeleteI've loved your books & on Monday (Dec. 21st) I read "Dream Snow" to a first grade English class at the Catholic School in Tartu, Estonia. They loved it. Thank you for all your wonderful books.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you were able to take a little break to inspire your creativity. I think as artist's we all need that from time to time. I really like the new technique, and the wonderful, vivid colors!
ReplyDeleteHappy Holidays and Cheers in the New Year!
With a New Year 2011, Hope it has brought many good new ventures for you. Also happy surprises. May God Bless you! you are a treasure to us and especially to children. I would love to hear more about your latest
ReplyDeleteHello Eric,
ReplyDeleteCongrats for this book, is wonderful!
Thanks again.