Podcasts about illustrators

Matthew Wolf is the creator of the epic adventure-fantasy series The Ronin Saga. He is releasing the fifth book in the series, “Heart of Flesh.” In this episode, we explore how he transforms myth into vivid reality, with the Ronin—a once-legendary team of nine, each with specific powers—now returning over a thousand years later. Each volume introduces another of the Ronin as the series progresses. His introduction of the nine dragons in this fifth volume adds rich depth and sets the stage for an epic good-versus-evil showdown. Matthew discusses his secrets for crafting compelling novel arcs that seamlessly contribute to the overarching story, revealing his approach to pacing that keeps readers hooked. We also discuss the Writers & Illustrators of the Future Contests and the impact of past masters, such as L. Ron Hubbard, as inspiration for authors like Matthew. Follow Matthew at www.matthewwolfauthor.com.

In this episode, we dive into the world of artificial intelligence with Stone Sanchez, the publisher of Spare Oom Press and a passionate computer geek. Stone is not only a technologist but also an avid reader, writer, and musician. Join us as we explore the growing influence of computer intelligence and its implications for creatives. Stone shares his insights on the threats AI poses to writers and artists and offers practical solutions to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Roddy Taylor is a former high school science teacher, who decided to become a full-time artist and illustrator. He and his wife moved to Ellensburg six years ago after his son was born and fell in love with the place. Since deciding to go full-time with his art, he has developed his previous love for mythology, nature, and fantasy themes. His most recent accolades involve winning Best of Show at the Kittitas County Fair twice. His work has shown often at Gallery One in Ellensburg, including a solo show in the Fall of 2024. It was a fairly short wordcount bio. Find out more about Roddy at,… RoddyTaylorArt.com The Writers of the Future Contest judges include, Tim Powers (author of On Stranger Tides), Kevin J. Anderson and Brian Herbert (Dune prequel series), Robert J. Sawyer (The Oppenheimer Alternative), Brandon Sanderson (Mistborn series, The Stormlight Archive), Larry Niven (Ringworld), Orson Scott Card (Ender's Game), Nnedi Okorafor (Who Fears Death), Hugh Howey (Wool), and Katherine Kurtz (Deryni series) to name a few. HOLLYWOOD, CA - Tooele, Utah artist Ms. Karah Richardson is a winner in the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest earning her a trip to Hollywood for a week-long master-class workshop, an awards event and her illustration will be published in the international bestselling anthology, L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 42. The Writers of the Future Contest judges include, Tim Powers (author of On Stranger Tides), Kevin J. Anderson and Brian Herbert (Dune prequel series), Robert J. Sawyer (The Oppenheimer Alternative), Brandon Sanderson (Mistborn series, The Stormlight Archive), Larry Niven (Ringworld), Orson Scott Card (Ender's Game), Nnedi Okorafor (Who Fears Death), Hugh Howey (Wool), and Katherine Kurtz (Deryni series) to name a few. The Illustrators of the Future Contest judges include, Bob Eggleton (11 Chesley Awards and 9 Hugo Awards), Larry Elmore (Dungeons & Dragons book covers), Echo Chernik (graphic designs for major corporations including Celestial Seasonings tea packaging), Rob Prior (art for Spawn, Heavy Metal comics and Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Ciruelo (Eragon Coloring Book).

Craig Miller, the first Director of Fan Relations for Lucasfilm Ltd., played a pivotal role during the creation of Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back. As a publicist, writer, producer, and innovator, Craig crafted groundbreaking ways to engage and grow the Star Wars fanbase, helping cement its place as a cultural phenomenon. Beyond Star Wars, Craig has been a key figure in the Writers of the Future contest since its inception, and he shares insights from its early days. We also discuss Craig's book, Star Wars Memories: My Time in the (Death Star) Trenches, a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes stories from his time in the Star Wars universe. From accidental mishaps to industry-defining moments, Craig's tales are as entertaining as they are revealing. In this episode, we explore: 1. How Craig landed the dream job of Director of Fan Relations for Star Wars. 2. The scope of his role and what it meant to be the bridge between Lucasfilm and its passionate fans. 3. His favorite interviews with Star Wars legends like Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford. 4. Memorable filming locations and what made them stand out. 5. The hilarious and chaotic story of how Craig accidentally shut down the state of Illinois' telephone system. 6. The epic saga of Kenner vs. Hasbro and the licensing misstep that rivals publishers rejecting Harry Potter. 7. The impact and legacy of the Star Wars comics.

Author : Stephannie Tallent Narrator : Katie Gill Host : Denise Sudell Audio Producer : Jeremy Carter First published in Writers and Illustrators of the Future Vol 40, April 2024 Domestic Violence. Mention of past attempted rape. Life and Death and Love in the Bayou by Stephannie Tallent It was the February the rain fell […] Source

Vanessa Stoilova's story is one every illustrator needs to hear. From mobile games to children's books and surface design, she has built a thriving career by learning what works and what definitely doesn't. Too many artists unknowingly sabotage their own success, and Vanessa lays out the five biggest mistakes she sees over and over again. You'll walk away from this conversation with practical, doable steps to start getting hired for the kind of work you dream about. In this episode, you'll… Learn why specializing is more powerful than trying to do it all Create a follow-up system that opens doors to real opportunities Find out how to align your art with the needs of your market For full show notes, go to schulmanart.com/374

Award-winning graphic novelist Stan Yan joins me to talk about his debut late middle-grade graphic novel, The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang (out September 30, 2025). We dig into his creative journey, the highs and lows of publishing, and what it really takes to bring a graphic novel to life.Stan also shares how embracing authenticity fuels his storytelling—and why representation matters. Plus, parents, librarians, and educators won't want to miss the giveaway at the end: a chance to win a school visit from Stan himself.Episode Timestamps 00:19 Welcome to Write It Scared Podcast 01:29 Introducing Stan Yan: Background and Journey 03:22 The Many Misfortunes of Eugene Wang 07:22 Challenges and Inspirations in Writing 17:49 The Writing and Illustrating Process 25:07 Pressure Testing Your Story Idea 25:19 Outlining and Collaborating on Your Pitch 26:22 Knowing If Your Idea Works as a Graphic Novel 27:29 The Role of Illustrators in Graphic Novels 31:10 Starting Small with Graphic Novels 32:14 The Long Journey of Creating a Graphic Novel 34:32 Representation in Graphic Novels 37:41 Fighting Imposter Syndrome 39:43 Creating for Yourself First 42:47 Upcoming Projects and How to Connect 45:22 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLinks and Contact info: JOIN THE STREET TEAM WIN SWAG! →  TEAM MISFORTUNEStan YanGraphic Novelist, Caricature Artist & InstructorRepresented by Ann Rose at Tobias AgencyBook me for an author visit at The Booking Tree2022 SCBWI Florida Portfolio Excellence Award WinnerKidlit art instructor at The Cuddlefish AcademyAuthor/Illustrator of 2025 JLG Selection, THE MANY MISFORTUNES OF EUGENIA WANG (Atheneum (S&S), Coming September 2025)Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

With her thought-provoking novels, Nancy Kress, acclaimed science fiction author and winner of six Nebulas, two Hugos, a Sturgeon, and the John W. Campbell Memorial Award, blends cutting-edge science with profound human questions. In this episode, we dive into her celebrated works, starting with “Beggars in Spain,” a gripping exploration of bioengineering, and “Tomorrow's Kin,” where complex scientific concepts challenge readers to expand their vocabulary and imagination. We discuss how Nancy masterfully weaves real science into her narratives, her approach to tackling humanity's response to intelligent extraterrestrial life, and the craft of writing compelling science fiction that resonates with both heart and mind. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, this episode offers a fascinating look at what it takes to create authentic, thought-provoking sci-fi. nancykress.com/

Join Jake Parker, Lee White, and Anthony Wheeler for a discussion about Google's AI storybook app, a recently rediscovered N.C. Wyeth mural, and a children's book that can detect color blindness.  3 Point Perspective Podcast is sponsored by SVSLearn.com, the place where becoming a great illustrator starts!Click here for this episode's links and show notes.

Today's guest is Wulf Moon, who many of you already know from any of our past three interviews since he was on as a Writer winner in Volume 35 back in 2019 with his short story “Super Duper Moongirl and the Amazing Moon Dawdler.” Wulf Moon won his first writing award at the age of 15 and has now won over 60 awards in writing and 30 in public speaking. He remains one the biggest supporters and promoters of Writers of the Future. As you can deduce from the title of this episode, we discuss tools you can use to raise the bar of your storytelling to new lofty heights. You can find him at driftweave.com/

Join us as Nev March, the first Indian-born winner of the Minotaur Books/Mystery Writers of America Award for a First Crime Novel and 2024 NY Chapter chair, shares her journey into murder mystery. A departure from our usual SF&F, we explore new genres, as top authors recommend reading broadly.

It's time for an update! Samantha Cotterill, Lee White, and Anthony Wheeler share what they're working on and the lessons they're learning in the process. Tune in to discover how to listen to your creative voice and maintain play in your illustration practice. 3 Point Perspective Podcast is sponsored by SVSLearn.com, the place where becoming a great illustrator starts!Click here for this episode's links and show notes.

Why this sector also has back-of-house roles that call for talents from all walks of life. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Find out why job seekers should not just think of front-facing guest roles in this sector, as host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Ms Adeline Phua, managing lyf partner and vice-president for business development at Ascott, the lodging business of CapitaLand Investment. You may have come across lyf (pronounced life) properties, that are creatively designed. It is known for its appeal to young travellers and inventive activities for guests. Ms Phua argues why hospitality is something Singaporeans should look deeper into, beyond just traditional or stereotypical job roles associated with the sector. Do you have to be an extrovert to work in hospitality? No. Not everyone has to be interacting with guests on the frontline, with a surfeit of meaningful roles behind the scenes in areas including facilities management, designing and sustainability. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:23 Kombucha-brewing classes, world record attempts and other memorable guest activities 6:10 Hospitality roles in SG: Is there room to improvise? 13:23 The range of roles and skills needed at a company like lyf 16:54 Wanted: Ex-kindergarten teachers, ex-zoo professionals, illustrators, content creators? 20:49 How’s the sector holding up in this current economy? Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim & Natasha Liew Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Writers & Illustrators of the Future Podcast, Lydia Sherrer, L. Ron Hubbard 341. Lydia Sherrer Writing Urban Fantasy with Snarky Humor by UFO Paranormal Radio

Nicole “NV” Haskell was a Writers of the Future winner in Volume 38 with her fantasy short story, “The Mystical Farrago.” Her recent novel, “The Malice of Moons and Mages,” is an epic fantasy novel, first in a series, where Nicole creates a world filled with magic but with special rules and laws. In this episode, we discuss how to world-build a magical realm and the importance of staying true to the system you have created. We also discuss Nicole's special journey as an author, including her Writers of the Future win and subsequent workshop in Hollywood. Learn more about Nicole at nvhaskell.com.

Is your website looking dusty? Jake Parker, Sam Cotterill, and Lee White discuss the proper care and feeding of your portfolio site. 3 Point Perspective Podcast is sponsored by SVSLearn.com, the place where becoming a great illustrator starts!Click here for this episode's links and show notes.

Send us a textIn a time when stories are under siege, especially those that center queer characters and themes, we're seeing a rise in book bans and legislative efforts aimed at erasing LGBTQ+ experiences from classrooms and libraries. Just last month, The U.S. Supreme Court handed a victory to Montgomery County parents who object, for religious reasons, to the school system's use of LGBTQ+ themed books in classrooms, saying parents should be allowed to opt their children out of such classes. Today In the Den, Sara is joined by Lee Wind, advocate, educator, and author whose work helps fill the shelves with stories LGBTQ+ youth so deeply need. Special Guest: Lee WindLee Wind's superpower is stories – true and fictional – that center marginalized kids and teens and celebrate their power to change the world. Closeted until his 20s, Lee writes the books that would have changed his life as a young gay kid. His Masters Degree from Harvard didn't include blueprints for a time machine to go back and tell these stories to himself, so Lee pays it forward with a popular blog with over 3 million page views (I'm Here. I'm Queer. What The Hell Do I Read?) and books for kids and teens.His latest book is Red and Green and Blue and White, a picture book illustrated by Caldecott-winning illustrator Paul O. Zelinsky (Levine Querido.) It has received five starred trade reviews and the New York Times called it “beautiful.” Lee's middle grade nonfiction No Way, They Were Gay? Hidden Lives and Secret Loves (Lerner Publishing Group/Zest Books), was honored as a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection and was selected for the Chicago Public Library's 2021 Best of the Best Books list. He is also the author of the crowd-funded YA novel Queer as a Five-Dollar Bill, featured as a Publishers Weekly Indie Success Story, and one of Publishers Weekly's Top Five Independently Published Middle Grade and Young Adult Books of 2018. With day jobs for the Independent Book Publishers Association (as their director of education and programs) and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (as their official blogger), Lee's superhero job is storytelling to empower readers to shine with their own light. Links from the Show: Lee's website: https://www.leewind.org/ Lee's books: https://bookshop.org/beta-search?keywords=lee+wind  Subscribe to Lee's newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/fc7b55fc0636/leewindsignup Join Mama Dragons today: www.mamadragons.org In the Den is made possible by generous donors like you. Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today at www.mamadragons.orgSupport the showConnect with Mama Dragons:WebsiteInstagramFacebookDonate to this podcast

Laurence O'Bryan is an author and the Founder of the International Dublin Writers' Festival and BooksGoSocial. In this episode, we discuss how BooksGoSocial provides personalized book promotion with expert feedback, Amazon ad optimization, and extensive social media reach to boost sales. Galaxy Press uses this service, and we want to make this known to other creatives who want to realize more success in book sales. Learn more at bgsauthors.com/

Django Degree is the founder and CEO of Focus on Words, a book platform that gives authors full ownership of their work, royalties, and audience. He's also the author of “I Hope You Wake Up” and “They Lied To You,” books that dive deep into truth, identity, and how we break free from the systems that shape us. His mission is clear: help authors reclaim their voice, rebuild broken systems, and eventually use the success of that work to fund a city for foster youth and orphans across the country.

Craig Martelle is an international bestselling author of thrillers and science fiction. His nonfiction book, Wit and Wisdom, provides incredible advice to authors. His first podcast interview was based on his thriller Ian Bragg Series. This interview is built around his book—a must-read for writers wishing to improve their game. He founded IASFA (Independent Association of Science Fiction & Fantasy Authors), which we also discuss in this interview. If you are a science fiction or fantasy writer, this is a great group to join. Learn more here: iasfa.org/

What do you want to do when you grow up?One day my best friendSaid to meWho in the worldDo you wanna be?I thought and thoughtAnd thought and saidMaybe a firemanCuz their trucks are red?That's not a great reason—but there are dozens of other possibilities in this lyrical, illustrated story. It's an affirming book written for diverse kids aged 4-8 and their parents, but it just might appeal to anyone who isn't sure what they want to do for work. (And, really, who is?)With large color illustrations on just about every page and rhymes throughout, it's a great gift for any young kid. We're contributing ten percent of the book's revenue to The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.This color, fixed-layout Kindle edition is best viewed on color tablets, laptops and desktop computers—and even cellphones.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ingrid Sanchez, also known as CreativeIngrid, is a Mexican-British artist based in London. Celebrated for her vibrant, nature-inspired paintings, Ingrid uses her art to explore the connection between the natural world and the human spirit. Her work reflects a deep appreciation for color, movement, and the organic beauty of flowers, foliage, and celestial motifs.Ingrid primarily works with watercolors, inks, and acrylics on paper, using bold, expressive brushstrokes to bring her vision to life. Through constant experimentation, she reinterprets the elements found in gardens and forests, creating artwork that invites viewers to see the world from a fresh perspective—one where nature and spirit converge.Since 2016, Ingrid has been painting professionally, selling her original artworks to collectors worldwide and licensing her designs for a wide range of products. Her watercolors have been featured in art prints, stationery, home décor, textiles, and more, with collaborations including brands like Tervis, The Happy Planner, Makers Collective, and Moonpig.Ingrid has led workshops in the USA, Mexico, and Europe, sharing her unique approach to watercolors and mixed media. In addition, her published works include contributions to Watercolor Techniques for Artists & Illustrators (2019) and her own book, DIY Watercolor Christmas (2021). Her dynamic style has been spotlighted in leading publications, including Artists & Illustrators Magazinehttps://ingridsanchez.com/Online school: https://watercolorfoundations.com/@creativeingrid on InstagramWe talked about:Her childhood experiences of creativity – and magic.Her techniques including brush dancingCreative evolution and the different media she works inHer passion for the moonWomen's circlesMagic, intuition and playfulnessTeaching and learning – and how one often becomes the otherIntention and ritual at every part of the creative and selling process.In the Extended Episode just $3/ month on www.patreon.com/lucyhpearce we dive deeper into:Watercolour technique and her innovative use of masking fluidWater as a living thing and how she infuses the magic of water into her paintingsHer experience creating a bookWe mentioned:Burning WomanCreatrix: she who makesDr Masuro Emoto – The Hidden Messages in WaterFull Circle HealthGather: A Celebration of Women's CirclesCyanotype Sun print paperDIY Watercolor ChristmasThe Beat of Your Own Drum Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

APRIL SOLOMON Artist & Illustrators of the Future Winner – Biography April Solomon was born in 1983 and raised in Laguna Beach, California. Since she was a small child, April has had a talent for drawing and painting. She would draw anything and everything that came into her imagination. Of all things, she drew dragons the most! Thankfully, her loving and encouraging family inspired her to embrace her love for the arts. She grew up around art. Her father's art studio was filled with all the delights a child could indulge. His bookshelves held stacks of art books containing illustrations from the old masters, the golden age illustrators, and even some fantasy art from the TSRs Dungeons and Dragons. Inspiration came in many forms. Fortunately it was everywhere! and so her career as a young artist began. Today April is an illustrator and fine artist who has earned her bachelor's degree in illustration at the Laguna College of Art and Design. April's passion for learning the old masterful techniques of traditional drawing and painting are precisely what inspires her work. Among her love for the fine arts is her unique appreciation for whimsical fantasy, which adorns every image of her portfolio. April's meticulous creature designs aim for what is known as “fantastic realism.” A clever, concise understanding of anatomy, plants, and mysterious textures weave their way into her illustrations, leaving the viewer guessing at origins, influences, and ancestry. April's work allows the viewer to dive imaginatively deeper, and reconsider whether dragons might be real or whether werewolves exist to stalk the streets at night. When not illustrating, April attends garage sales to unearth buried treasures, runs and lifts weights, or braves as many haunted attractions as possible during the month of October. Find out more about April here,... AprilSolomonArt.com

Brittany “Bea” Jackson illustrated the New York Times bestselling picture books, “Parker Looks Up,” about America's First Lady, and LeBron James's “We Are Family,” and her own “Lilly's Dream,” which she both wrote and illustrated. She is a former grand prize winner of the Illustrators of the Future Contest and was published in “L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 24.” She has been a judge since 2021. We discuss how she developed her style as a self-taught artist, having begun as a fan fiction artist. We also discussed how she was discovered by a major publisher finding her through social pages. Visit www.beagifted.com/

Brittany “Bea” Jackson illustrated the New York Times bestselling picture books, “Parker Looks Up,” about America's First Lady, and LeBron James's “We Are Family,” and her own “Lilly's Dream,” which she both wrote and illustrated. She is a former grand prize winner of the Illustrators of the Future Contest and was published in “L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 24.” She has been a judge since 2021. We discuss how she developed her style as a self-taught artist, having begun as a fan fiction artist. We also discussed how she was discovered by a major publisher finding her through social pages. Visit www.beagifted.com/

Stephanie Bearce is an award-winning author of over 40 traditionally published books, including The Secret of Moonrise Manor (2025) and its sequel, The Curse of the Lost Cave (2026). She is the author of several nonfiction series, including The Top-Secret Files of History, Twisted True Tales from Science, and Awesome Disgusting History. Her books have been awarded the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award and recognized by the National Science Teachers Association's Notable Book List. Stephanie is a certified life and author coach and co-hosts the Way-Word Writers podcast, where she and her co-hosts provide practical advice and inspiration for writers navigating storytelling and publishing. She is a member of the Nonfiction Ninjas and the founder of NF Fest, an annual online event that educates and celebrates writers of nonfiction.Website: www.stephaniebearce.comFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.m.bearceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemowrybearce/Mentioned in the Podcast:Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators: https://www.scbwi.org/Way-Word Podcast: https://way-wordwriters.com/podcast/*****************About SinCSisters in Crime (SinC) was founded in 1986 to promote the ongoing advancement, recognition and professional development of women crime writers. Through advocacy, programming and leadership, SinC empowers and supports all crime writers regardless of genre or place on their career trajectory.www.SistersinCrime.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sincnational/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sincnational.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@sincnationalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sistersincrimeTikTok:: https://www.tiktok.com/@sincnationalThe SinC Writers' Podcast is produced by Julian Crocamo https://www.juliancrocamo.com/

From the ruins of war to the pages of Marvel and DC, Croatian artists have built stories as powerful as the ones they illustrate. They have now built a reputation within the popular world of comic books. Few fans are aware that some of these iconic characters originate from a small Balkan nation with a limited comic book market of its own. For years, Croatian illustrators have quietly made their mark at top publishers like Marvel and DC Comics, crafting the visual worlds of heroes known and loved by millions. It's an unlikely success story born not in flashy studios, but amid the upheaval of war and economic uncertainty. Before the breakup of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, comics were a staple of youth culture in the region. From that era emerged a generation of Croatian artists who would later earn international acclaim in an industry far from home. “We've always had great talent. But as the market declined significantly in our country, these talented individuals—thanks to their skill and excellence—were forced to seek opportunities abroad. … There's no secret to their success, these are simply top-notch cartoonists,” explains Marko Šunjić, founder of Fibra, a Croatian comic book publisher. Dalibor Talajić, a former clarinet teacher, traded music for illustration and never looked back. Today, his résumé includes titles such as Deadpool, X-Men, Avengers, and The Hulk. “Ever since I was a kid, I was dreaming about superhero comics, about doing superhero comics. Marvel, DC, that was eventual goal. Unless you're a genius, which I'm not, you start small. So, I was firstly published in a couple of small publishers, but I was persistent… And it took me, let's say, 15 years to break the ice, to appear in the foreign market, in the American market. But after that, only two years, it took to get to Marvel,” says Talajić. Being a comic book artist, he says, is a dream come true—a rewarding but extremely demanding job. Behind every issue are weeks or even months of work, sleepless nights, and a constant run with deadlines. This article was provided by The Associated Press.

Writers & Illustrators of the Future Podcast Tom Wood is a fantasy art illustrator among the best-selling poster artists in the US and Canada. We met at the Dragon Con in Atlanta 10 years ago, where he exhibited at a booth next to ours. We became friends, then great friends. We also appreciated his desire to help other artists. We invited him and he has been an Illustrators of the Future judge since 2021. In “Writers of the Future Volume 41,” he wrote an article titled “An Artist's Path,” describing his journey from very humble beginnings to being one of the most successful poster artists in North America, which we discuss in this episode. Learn more about Tom and his art at tomwoodfantasyart.com/

Tom Wood is a fantasy art illustrator among the best-selling poster artists in the US and Canada. We met at the Dragon Con in Atlanta 10 years ago, where he exhibited at a booth next to ours. We became friends, then great friends. We also appreciated his desire to help other artists. We invited him and he has been an Illustrators of the Future judge since 2021. In “Writers of the Future Volume 41,” he wrote an article titled “An Artist's Path,” describing his journey from very humble beginnings to being one of the most successful poster artists in North America, which we discuss in this episode. Learn more about Tom and his art at tomwoodfantasyart.com/

Press the link to find out about the FREE Second Annual Look Who's Reading Book Festival, Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 11am to 5pm, at the Thibodaux Civic Center, 310 North Canal Blvd in Thibodaux.  For more information, email triparishorganizers@gmail.com Something for everyone. Free School Supplies and much more. Authors, Illustrators, Songwriters, Podcasters, Journalists, Playwrights, Wellness Support, Workshops, Performances, Storytime and so much more. #bookfestival #reading #childrensbooks

Robert J. Sawyer entered Writers of the Future and won three Honorable Mentions before disqualifying himself by selling professionally. We met 20 years ago at Torcon III, where he won his first Hugo award. The following year, he was invited to Hollywood to attend the Gala and subsequently invited to be a judge. He agreed and has been a judge for 20 years as of this interview. Find him at www.sfwriter.com/

Andrew Jackson started writing and illustrating since age twelve and never gave up the former but (thankfully for his readers) has stopped the latter! One of his earliest memories is of watching Star Trek with his dad and falling in love with the speeding ships, bizarre aliens, and the diamond glitter of myriad stars in that eternal blackness. Even now, as he explores the strange new worlds of family, fatherhood, and a career in retail, he's never lost his love for the stars. Counting authors such as Stephen King, Iain M. Banks, and Alastair Reynolds amongst his literary influences, he revels both in reading and writing rich, tangible worlds other than our own. Born too late to watch the Apollo missions but too early for interstellar travel he must content himself with dreams and the sad knowledge that he may never know what's out there. Is there anybody out there? Why aren't they talking? On walks down leafy lanes of his native Surrey, Andrew examines these questions. He likes to think he looked at a particular tree one time and pondered its age and almost otherworldly summer greenness and so was born his winning short story, Code L1. The story itself is an exploration of the Fermi Paradox –- the hypothesis that, if we have galactic neighbours, they should have called by now. Perhaps they've seen the darker sides of humanity and they're afraid of us coming out into the stars. Or perhaps, if they could, they'd tell us why they've been so quiet. Perhaps, it's best not to know… The Contest, one of the most prestigious writing and illustrating competitions in the world, is currently in its 42nd year and is judged by some of the premier names in speculative fiction HOLLYWOOD - Mullica Hill, New Jersey author Sandra Skalski is a winner in Sandra lives with her husband in suburban New Jersey. She recently retired from a career in chemical engineering, leaving her with actual time to write. When she's not writing, you can find her in the butterfly garden or traveling with her husband. Her greatest joy is spending time with her daughter, son-in-law, and her two beautiful grandchildren. HOLLYWOOD - Savannah, Georgia artist and Savannah College of Art and Design student Ms. HeatherAnne Lee is a winner in the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest and was honored along with ten other artists and twelve writers at the Taglyan Complex in Hollywood, California on April 10th. Her art is published along with the other writers' and illustrators' stories and art in the international bestselling anthology, L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 41 which was officially released on April 22nd 2025. HeatherAnne Lee was born in 2004 in Federal Way, Washington, and has lived across the US from Hawaii to New York and Vermont. HeatherAnne, or “Heather” to her friends, now resides in Savannah, Georgia, pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Heather started drawing as soon as she could hold a crayon and never stopped, graduating from crayon to graphite to paint, and now primarily works digitally. Despite working on a screen, Heather holds to her painting knowledge, layering colors and textures on her drawing tablet, emulating traditional painting techniques in a digital medium. Heather takes much of her inspiration from the world around her, translating reality into epics and stories of dragons and knights. Heather always strives to push her work to the limit, working with clients to bring their stories to life through her illustrations. The Illustrators of the Future Contest judges include, Bob Eggleton (11 Chesley Awards and 9 Hugo Awards), Larry Elmore (Dungeons & Dragons book covers), Echo Chernik (graphic designs for major corporations including Celestial Seasonings tea packaging), Rob Prior (art for Spawn, Heavy Metal comics and Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Ciruelo (Eragon Coloring Book).

Sean Williams was a Writers of the Future winner in 1992 and published in Volume 9. He became a judge in 2003. He is a NYT bestselling author of 60 books and over 120 short stories for adults, young adults, and children. Sean wrote the cover story based on Craig Elliot's cover art for “L. Ron Hubbard Presents Volume 41” titled “Under False Colours.” In this episode, we discuss his journey as a writer, which is an inspiration in and of itself to the amateur, and the importance of short stories in establishing oneself as an author. Sean is one of the nicest people you will ever know, and this episode will provide some insight into why. Learn more about Sean at seanwilliams.com/

Tim Powers is a three-time World Fantasy Award winner and Writers of the Future Contest judge and instructor. In this podcast, we discuss why fantasy has to be believable...and how to make that happen!

Besides being a stalwart of The Habit Membership for Writers, Meredith Davis is the founder of the Austin Texas chapter of The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. And she’s the author of the middle-grade novel series, The Amazing Adventures of Noah Minor. The Minor Miracle was published in 2024; The Minor Rescue was published earlier this year. In this episode, Meredith speaks with Jonathan Rogers about her long road to publication, as well as her longstanding practice of hospitality to other writers.Support the show: https://therabbitroom.givingfuel.com/memberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HOLLYWOOD - Rosemead, California artist Haileigh Eriquez is a winner in the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest and was honored along with ten other artists and twelve writers at the Taglyan Complex in Hollywood, California on April 10th. Her art is published along with the other writers' and illustrators' stories and art in the international bestselling anthology, L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 41 which will be officially released on April 22nd 2025. Haileigh Enriquez was born in 1996 and is a Los Angeles–born artist with a mix of Mexican/Yaqui Native American and Salvadorian roots. Growing up in Rosemead, California, a predominantly Asian/Hispanic community, deeply shaped her identity. She immersed herself in drawing and comic books from an early age and fostered a fascination for character design and storytelling. What started as an escape, turned into a passion. Originally on a path toward a career in the medical field, a personal loss led Haileigh to reevaluate her future and embrace her true passion: art. With the encouragement of her family and mentors, she shifted her focus and enrolled at Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD), where she refined her technique and explored her own personal style. Her work blends fantastical realism, bold colors, and dynamic lines, drawing heavily from her love for comic book art and Mesoamerican mythology. Driven by a desire to create characters that celebrate cultural diversity, Haileigh's work is a joyful exploration of identity, imagination, and resilience. As a traditional artist turned digital creator, she combines realism with imaginative storytelling, crafting unique characters that reflect her identity and the worlds she dreams of. HOLLYWOOD - Mullica Hill, New Jersey author Sandra Skalski is a winner in the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest and was honored along with eleven other writers and eleven artists at the Taglyan Complex in Hollywood, California on April 10th. Her story, "Slip Stone," is published along with the other writers' and illustrators' stories and art in the international bestselling anthology, L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 41 which was officially released on April 22nd 2025. Sandra Skalski's love of fantasy ignited when her kindergarten teacher read Ozma of Oz to the class. Growing up, she spent most of her allowance in the Bookmobile. During the summer, she walked nearly two miles to the nearest library to devour every fantasy and science fiction book she could find. She wrote her first SF story when she was thirteen. It wasn't very good, but she was determined to keep writing. Attending Viable Paradise workshop helped improve her craft. The first time she got the courage to hit submit, it was to the Writers of the Future Contest. Her stories have appeared in Factor Four Magazine, Wyld Flash, Ruth and Ann's Guide to Time Travel Anthology Vol. 2 and 100-Foot Crow. Sandra lives with her husband in suburban New Jersey. She recently retired from a career in chemical engineering, leaving her with actual time to write. When she's not writing, you can find her in the butterfly garden or traveling with her husband. Her greatest joy is spending time with her daughter, son-in-law, and her two beautiful grandchildren. The Contest, one of the most prestigious writing and illustrating competitions in the world, is currently in its 42nd year and is judged by some of the premier names in speculative fiction.

Giuseppe Castellano talks to Terry Brown, former director of The Society of Illustrators, about his time at the Society; what's behind the Society's disparity between men and women award-winners; how life is made up of many different but connected chapters; and more.Learn more about The Society of Illustrators by visiting societyillustrators.org.Artists mentioned in this episode include: Bob Peak, Norman Rockwell, Charles Dana Gibson, Steve Brodner, Anita Kunz, Yuko Shimizu, Bernie Fuchs, Al Hirschfeld, Robert Weaver, Murray Tinkelman, Joe Ciardiello, Mark English, Roger Kastel, Diane Dillon, Violet Oakley, Jessie Willcox Smith, Elizabeth Shippen Green, Florence Scovel Shinn, May Wilson Preston, E. Simms Campbell, Reynold Ruffins, and Rube Goldberg If you find value in this podcast, you can support it by subscribing to our best-selling publication, Notes On Illustration, on Substack. Among other benefits, you will gain access to bonus episodes we call “Extra Credit”. | Visit illustrationdept.com for offerings like mentorships and portfolio reviews, testimonials, our alumni showcase, and more. | Music for the podcast was created by Oatmello.

In this episode Mark interviews Jacob from the JJ McFaull is collaboration children's book Where Pumpkins Go After Halloween. Prior to the interview, Mark shares a personal update and a word about this episode's sponsor. This episode is sponsored by the new book The Podcast Guest Playbook co-authored by Mark and Matty Dalrymple. Check out the book here: https://books2read.com/podcastguestplaybook In the interview, Mark and Jacob talk about: Mark and Jacob talk about: How even as a kid, Jacob was making up stories Getting involved in the book industry in 2024 after initially trying to get his children's book published The organization CANSCAPE (Canadian Society of Children's Authors, Illustrators and Performers) which is a great resource for creators The title for his book which incites the right questions in people Seeing pumpkins left on the curb after Halloween, which is what inspired the story Collaborating with his father James and working as an author/illustrator duo under the name JJ McFaull (JJ being short for Jacob and James) How Jacob's father has been an illustrator his entire life The origin of how the book got conceived and published An important design element Jacob would recommend for children's book authors to consider Some of the challenges with the quality of POD children's books ordered from Amazon Selling books at in person fairs and other locales How having the book tied in to a specific holiday (Halloween) can be really beneficial How farmers markets were a great place for Jacob to set up for selling his books in person The way that having a pre-illustrated book on submission to a publisher can actually work against an author A little bit about the YA book that Jacob is working on right now The Christmas themed picture book that JJ McFaull will be releasing in the fall of 2025 Advice Jacob would offer to other writers And more... After the interview Mark reflects on the unique father-and-son collaboration as well as on the importance of recognizing where additional talent needs to be brought in on a project.    Links of Interest: JJ McFaull's Website JJ McFaull Instagram The Indy Author Podcast - Episode 291: The Podcast Guest Playbook with Mark Leslie Lefebvre Manuscript Report (Mark's affiliate link) Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections Mark's YouTube channel Mark's Stark Reflections on Writing & Publishing Newsletter (Signup) An Author's Guide to Working With Bookstores and Libraries The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon Hex and the City Only Monsters in the Building The Canadian Mounted: A Trivia Guide to Planes, Trains and Automobiles Yippee Ki-Yay Motherf*cker: A Trivia Guide to Die Hard Merry Christmas! Shitter Was Full!: A Trivia Guide to National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation   JJ McFaull is the author/illustrator of Where Pumpkins Go After Halloween, a debut picture book released in September 2024. Under the pen name JJ McFaull, Jacob (the author) and James (his father and illustrator) combine their passions for storytelling and art to create memorable books for young readers. The second book in their holiday series is scheduled to release this fall.   The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast (“Laser Groove”) was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Four Illustrators of the Future winners: CL Fors, illustrator of "A World of Repetitions"; Tremani Sutcliffe, illustrator of "Ascii"; Breanda Petsch, illustrator of "Karma Birds"; and Daniel Montifar, illustrator of "The Boy from Elsewhen." We discuss their journeys as artists, Illustrator Workshop week, illustration, and the Illustrators of the Future Forum. Sign up on the forum at writersofthefuture.com/forum/.

Four Illustrators of the Future winners: CL Fors, illustrator of "A World of Repetitions"; Tremani Sutcliffe, illustrator of "Ascii"; Breanda Petsch, illustrator of "Karma Birds"; and Daniel Montifar, illustrator of "The Boy from Elsewhen." We discuss their journeys as artists, Illustrator Workshop week, illustration, and the Illustrators of the Future Forum. Sign up on the forum at https://writersofthefuture.com/forum/.

These eight winners from year 41 at the Writers & Illustrators of the Future workshop and awards gala: Seth Atwater, Jr., author of "A World of Repetitions," Jefferson Snow, author of "The Rune Witch," Joel C. Scoberg, author of "The Stench of Freedom," Sandra Skalski, author of "Slip Stone," T.R. Naus, author of "Storm Damage," Haileigh Enriquez, illustrator of "Storm Damage" and "Slip Stone," HeatherAnne Lee, illustrator of "Code L1," and Andrew Jackson, author of "Code L1." We discuss their journey as creative individuals and what makes the workshop so special for them and what Writers and Illustrators of the Future means to them and to the genre.

These eight winners from year 41 at the Writers & Illustrators of the Future workshop and awards gala: Seth Atwater, Jr., author of "A World of Repetitions," Jefferson Snow, author of "The Rune Witch," Joel C. Scoberg, author of "The Stench of Freedom," Sandra Skalski, author of "Slip Stone," T.R. Naus, author of "Storm Damage," Haileigh Enriquez, illustrator of "Storm Damage" and "Slip Stone," HeatherAnne Lee, illustrator of "Code L1," and Andrew Jackson, author of "Code L1." We discuss their journey as creative individuals and what makes the workshop so special for them and what Writers and Illustrators of the Future means to them and to the genre.

Illustration Award Winner Tremani Sutcliffe Episode 27: November 16, 2024 Join Echo as she interviews Tremani Sutcliffe after her Illustrators of the Future award. Tremani challenges traditional concepts of fantasy art, bringing new perspectives, styles, and narratives to the genre. Learn ways to use creativity and innovation fuel your work, from unconventional techniques to reimagining familiar fantasy themes, and showcase your humanity in your art. About Tremani Sutcliffe Tremani Sutcliffe is an award-winning illustrator who is developing her own Tabletop Role-Playing IP. Tremani Sutcliffe Links: Portfolio: https://www.decisiveart.myportfolio.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alteration_games Echo Chernik Links: Website: https://www.EchoChernik.com Illustration: https://www.echo-x.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/echoxartist Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/echochernik Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thexcaliberproject Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/echox/created

HOLLYWOOD - Broomall, Pennsylvania artist David Hoffrichter is a winner in the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest and was honored along with ten other artists and twelve writers at the Taglyan Complex in Hollywood, California on April 10th. His art is published along with the other writers' and illustrators' stories and art in the international bestselling anthology, L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 41 which will be officially released on April 22nd 2025. David grew up in Broomall PA, right outside of Philadelphia and not too far from several museums that would direct his love of illustration for the rest of his life. David was raised on adventure stories, magical tales of Lions, Dwarves, Elves, and heroes of all ages. The one thing these stories had in common were amazing pictures illustrated by artists who lived very close to where David first learned to love art. From N.C. Wyeth, Howard Pyle, and Jessie Wilcox Smith, to the artistic legends who are alive today. Still brightening the world with every brushstroke they make, David revels in his appreciation of art and how it has shaped his foundation from an early age. David loves to create narrative paintings that tell the stories between the lines. There is a mystery to be found in his works, that represents who he is as an artist, and how he sees the world. He cannot wait to share his world with you. The Illustrators of the Future Contest judges include, Bob Eggleton (11 Chesley Awards and 9 Hugo Awards), Larry Elmore (Dungeons & Dragons book covers), Echo Chernik (graphic designs for major corporations including Celestial Seasonings tea packaging), Rob Prior (art for Spawn, Heavy Metal comics and Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Ciruelo (Eragon Coloring Book). devil can ever be justified. “The Rune Witch” is Jefferson's first sale. He hopes you enjoy it. The Contest, one of the most prestigious writing and illustrating competitions in the world, is currently in its 42nd year and is judged by some of the premier names in speculative fiction. The Writers of the Future Contest judges include, Tim Powers (author of On Stranger Tides), Kevin J. Anderson and Brian Herbert (Dune prequel series), Robert J. Sawyer (The Oppenheimer Alternative), Brandon Sanderson (Mistborn series, The Stormlight Archive), Larry Niven (Ringworld), Orson Scott Card (Ender's Game), Nnedi Okorafor (Who Fears Death), Hugh Howey (Wool), and Katherine Kurtz (Deryni series) to name a few. The Illustrators of the Future Contest judges include, Bob Eggleton (11 Chesley Awards and 9 Hugo Awards), Larry Elmore (Dungeons & Dragons book covers), Echo Chernik (graphic designs for major corporations including Celestial Seasonings tea packaging), Rob Prior (art for Spawn, Heavy Metal comics and Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Ciruelo (Eragon Coloring Book). Following the 1982 release of his internationally acclaimed bestselling science fiction novel, Battlefield Earth, written in celebration of 50 years as a professional writer, L. Ron Hubbard created the Writers of the Future (writersofthefuture.com) in 1983 to provide a means for aspiring writers of speculative fiction to get that much-needed break. Due to the success of the Writers of the Future Contest, the companion Illustrators of the Future Contest was inaugurated five years later. In the 41 years of the Writers of the Future Contest, there have been 571 winners and published finalists. The past winners of the Writing Contest have published 2,000 novels and nearly 6,300 short stories. They have produced 36 New York Times bestsellers, and their works have sold over 60 million copies. In the 36 years of the Illustrators of the Future Contest, there have been 418 winners. T

These four winners from year 41 at the Writers & Illustrators of the Future workshop and awards gala: David Hoffrichter, illustrator of "The Rune Witch"; Lauren McGuire, author of "Karma Birds"; Barlow Crassmont, author of "The Boy from Elsewhen"; and, Patrick MacPhee, author of "Thirty Minutes or It's a Paradox."

In this episode Mark interviews author and artist C L Fors about her recent award win with Writers of the Future and her life in writing and illustration. Prior to the interview, Mark shares comments from recent episodes, a personal update, and a word about this episode's sponsor. This episode is sponsored by an affiliate link to Manuscript Report. Use code MARK5 at checkout and save $5.00 off your own personalized report. In the interview, Mark and Cherrie talk about: Cherrie's recent win as an illustrator for Writers and Illustrators of the Future for Volume 41 of the annual anthology Entering the contest as both a writer and an illustrator every quarter since 2016 How Cherrie can be creative in both writing and illustrating based on the same spark of inspiration. Sometimes it comes out first as a story and then later as an illustration, sometimes vice versa The process of how illustrator winners of Writers and Illustrators of the Future are "teamed up" with a writer winner Cherrie's four-book epic science fiction series - which is a story about people re-claiming self-determination The graphic novel Cherrie is working on which, at first, she wasn't sure what medium it was going to emerge into How a lot of the skills that Cherrie initially learned about art was self-taught, before she received more formal instruction Learning the right time to make that creative jump as a creator How when she is in the midst of the process of creating, regardless of whether it is writing or art, Cherrie feels most alive Taking a step back to understand if she's taking realistic stock of her time and energy The challenge of getting sucked in to social media Ensuring that you're not being too hard on yourself How Cherrie cannot remember a time when she was not doing both art and writing Publishing her first work (a magazine that had her stories, poetry and art) and selling copies of it door-to-door when she was 9 years old in order to earn money to make a purchase Getting her Masters in Publishing at Western Colorado University and continuing the program in Genre fiction to get her MFA Seeing and representing herself as BOTH a writer and an illustrator Using C L Fors for both her art and her writing Learning that she has to "go with the flow" and use the time she has to approach her various tasks as an author, an illustrator, a wife, and a mother Advice that Cherrie would give her younger self How rejection is just a lesson What is next for Cherrie And more . . . After the interview Mark reflects on a few things that were discussed including Cherrie's advice on continuing to do something once you find the thing that you love.   Links of Interest: CL Fors Author CL Fors Illustrator Writers of the Future The Podcast Guest Playbook (co-authored with Matty Dalrymple) Writers' Federation of New Brunswick: WordSpring 2025 Episodes with Kathy Mac The Lefebvre Monument Manuscript Report (Mark's affiliate link) Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections Mark's YouTube channel Mark's Stark Reflections on Writing & Publishing Newsletter (Signup) An Author's Guide to Working With Bookstores and Libraries The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon Hex and the City Only Monsters in the Building The Canadian Mounted: A Trivia Guide to Planes, Trains and Automobiles Yippee Ki-Yay Motherf*cker: A Trivia Guide to Die Hard Merry Christmas! Shitter Was Full!: A Trivia Guide to National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation   CL Fors lives and breathes stories in multiple mediums: the written word, illustration in watercolor, acrylic, digital, and ink, and the creation of custom jewelry and other artifacts of story. She is an artist with a myriad of interests and experiences that inform and flavor her writing and illustrating. A multipotentialite, mother, author, and adventurer, CL is a science and science-fiction enthusiast with a passion for research based sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction in general. She has at various times in her life been a film actor, military intelligence linguist in the Arabic language, a doula, childbirth educator, and student midwife for birthing, as well as a bellydancer. Cherrie and her husband, Jason P. Crawford, founded the indie publishing house Epitome Press and together bring the work of talented authors out of the brambles and into the light of day. CL's  debut novel, Progeny is the first installment of the Primogenitor series.The second installment, Breach of Mars is available on Amazon as are the third and fourth books in the series, Crowning of Mars and Futures of Mars.   The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast (“Laser Groove”) was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0  

These four winners from year 41 at the Writers & Illustrators of the Future workshop and awards gala: Robert Lowell, author of "Kill Switch"; Jordan Smajstrla, illustrator of "Kill Switch"; CL "Cherrie" Fors, illustrator of "A World of Repetitions"; Ian Keith, author of "Blackbird Stone." We discuss their journey as creative individuals and what makes the workshop so special for them and what Writers and Illustrators of the Future means to them and to the genre.

In the world of children's literature, the Hans Christian Andersen Award is the highest international distinction awarded to authors and illustrators of children's books. Canadian illustrator Sydney Smith is one of those people. He describes his work as a controlled mess.

As our centennial series continues, Liza Donnelly, writer and cartoonist at The New Yorker and the author of Very Funny Ladies: The New Yorker's Women Cartoonists, 1925-2021 (Prometheus, 2022) and the Substack "Seeing Things", talks about the evolution of the "New Yorker cartoon" now on display in an exhibit at the Society of Illustrators.=>See Drawn From The New Yorker: A Centennial Celebration curated by Liza Donnelly at The Society of Illustrators, 128 East 63rd Street, through May 3.=>To see the cartoons, check out the slideshows here: https://societyillustrators.org/event/the-history-of-the-new-yorker-a-conversation-with-liza-donnelly-and-michael-maslin/ https://societyillustrators.org/event/drawn-from-the-new-yorker-a-centennial-celebration/https://www.newyorker.com/gallery/a-centenary-cartoon-collection 

Giuseppe Castellano talks to Arabelle Liepold, Executive Director of The Society of Illustrators, about the past, present, and future of the Society; why illustrators should consider becoming members; what the Society can be for… society; and more.To learn more about the Society, visit societyillustrators.org.Artists mentioned in this episode include: Norman Rockwell, Dean Cornwell, Charles Dana Gibson, Liza Donnelly, Edel Rodriguez, and Steve Brodner If you find value in this podcast, consider supporting it via Substack or Patreon. Among other benefits, you will gain access to bonus episodes we call “Extra Credit”. | Visit illustrationdept.com for offerings like mentorships and portfolio reviews, testimonials, our alumni showcase, our best-selling Substack, and more. | Music for the podcast was created by Oatmello.