“Deep Dive: Crafting Compelling Characters” with Rashad Doucet
In this dynamic, hands-on workshop, award-winning cartoonist Rashad Doucet will guide participants through the essential connection between storytelling and character design. Rashad will share tips and techniques on how a character’s narrative — their background, personality, and role — should directly influence their shape-language, costume choices, and overall design. The session will include two interactive drawing exercises: First, participants will complete a fun character generation assignment prompt, focusing on quick-thinking and creative storytelling through design. Next, participants will refine their characters by working with simplified shapes to create body variety, distinct silhouettes, and strong visual identities.
“Deep Dive: Designing Captivating Covers in the KidLit Market” with Mike Wimmer
Explore the art and strategy behind creating unforgettable book covers with Mike Wimmer, whose powerful imagery has defined numerous acclaimed publications. In this focused session, participants will closely examine how to conceptualize, design, and execute compelling cover art that resonates with today's picture book and YA covers.
“Deep Dive: Using Storyboarding POV’s to Improve Story Pacing with Emotion” with Jime Wimmer
Discover the essential role in how storyboarding “point of view shots” play in shaping the rhythm and emotional arc of a narrative. In this hands-on workshop, Jime Wimmer will guide participants through the principles of a visualization exercise that leads into point of view shot analysis, visual pacing, and composition techniques that elevate storytelling. Whether working on a picture book, illustration or graphic novel, attendees will learn practical strategies to tighten narrative flow and enhance reader engagement.