Aug. 19, 2025 - The Creative Process

Many years ago I created a series of watercolour paintings that represented tree elementals. One, Bruce the Spruce, is what I thought a wind swept Sitka spruce would look like if it had a spirit. This later became one of the characters that appears in both the children's picture book and the historical romantasy I wrote. Today, I worked on bringing this character to life as an illustration for A MOST CURIOUS MAGICAL TALE. It's still in a rough stage, but, I'm pleased to say, it's beginning to take shape. I hope to work on it more tomorrow. I'll share pictures as soon as he's presentable.

Today I spent the afternoon at the doctor's office. Looks like I'm going to need surgery - my right shoulder joint: a total replacement. That means I won't be able to draw for a couple of months, so the race is on to get these illustrations to a presentation stage. At least I'll still be able to work on my epic fantasy using a voice to text program.

I've also began to work on the final character's illustration. It's a little girl named Taylor. To be honest, I'm unsure how to tackle this last one. I'll have to give it some thought. In the meantime, back to the challenge of illustrating Bruce the Spruce! At least the colour pallet will be easy for this one. Wish me luck!

Best wishes always....

P.S. Welcome to my blog! My intention is to keep followers up to date on my latest writing adventures. My current focus is on fiction genres including children's picture books and YA/NA historical romanticies. I'm also preparing to write an epic fantasy for the young adult audience. As a debut author I face all the challenges of breaking into the traditional publishing market. I need your interest and support to do so! Please consider following me here and on other social media platforms, which you can access on the Home page of my author's web site. I'll be adding more in the weeks to come so please check back from time to time. Thank you so much, in advance, for following my blog. You are potentially helping me enrich the lives of future readers. I just need this break to attract my first agent representation! Your efforts will make all the difference! Thank you once again.

This is the original watercolour painting which is acting as the inspiration for the illustration.