Featured Illustrator

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Sheryl recently shared some tips about building a strong portfolio that she’s learned along the way in a Q&A session with illustrator Polina Gorman for her blog/newsletter. Here’s a recap: 

- What are the top three things you keep in mind when selecting images to add to your portfolio? 

I always keep in mind that the main purpose of my portfolio is to showcase storytelling. I'm looking for images that clearly show emotion, either internally in a single character or between two characters. A fantastic portfolio will also show a full range of emotions across all the pieces. I also select pieces that tell a visual narrative - having a few sequential illustrations in your portfolio shows both your ability to develop the storyline and maintain character consistency. Lastly, I hope my portfolio feels inclusive. I'm committed to the idea that kids of all races, shapes, and abilities should be able to see themselves and their families in books. 

- What advice do you have for aspiring illustrators when it comes to creating a strong portfolio and maintaining a consistent unique voice?

It pays to listen to your inner instincts. Don't compare yourself to what others are doing on social media or develop work just because it's a style that's trending. The things that make your work uniquely yours is the truest expression, and that's something that will be recognized by others. Also don't be afraid to change things up in terms of experimenting with materials, as long as the key elements that identify your style carry over.

- What are the things that you, as an established children's book illustrator, wish you had known when you were first starting to build your portfolio? 

A big challenge that I had to work through when first developing my style for children's books was to consider the intent. My early portfolio pieces received lots of approval for their fine art sensibilities and strong sense of design but those same stylistic elements were overshadowing the narrative and stopping the reader from getting to know the characters and draw them into the story. It took multiple professionals telling me the same thing in different ways before that registered for me, resulting in an "aha" moment (as well as a forehead smacking "doh!").  

Never stop listening and learning. Go to conferences and workshops. Examine work you favor on social media or in books and ask yourself what it is that you are responding to in it. Join a critique group that will challenge you. And don't give up! 

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