Way back in 2010-2011, I was given the opportunity to help develop and illustrate a children's book series for an independent author Chely Schwartz. It was a great learning experience for me, and was the first published work I was credited on. The first two books were done in a blend of watercolor, color pencil, and ink. 

I began developing a digital process for the third book to streamline the process, but had to shift away from the project at that time. I am glad I was able to help get the project going, and to see that the author continued the series. Looking back on the artwork I did for these books is endearing and serves as a great reminder of the many lessons I have learned along this journey as an artist. 

You can still purchase this book series. They are very cute. Visit the link below for more info about them and about the author. 
 
theadventuresoftandytheteddy.com

​With Love,
-NR

I have been making concerted effort lately to improve my linework and sketching ability on a Wacom tablet. I have found that the 12"-18" parallax from the tablet to the screen has led me to habits of avoiding doing linework in digital. I tend to default to broader strokes and painting methods instead of beginning with drawing fundamentals and linework. There is a huge difference to me between my line grace with physical mediums and digital. 

In an effort to improve my work and my processes, I have been returning to old sketches and adding to them with new iterations and expanded designs. These sketches are a blend of actual pencil and digital pencil done in Clip Studio Paint. I am hoping to develop the ability to blend the two mediums as seamlessly as I can for various approaches to the design process. 

I think these sets turned out really cool. I love woodland creatures and animal amalgamations. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do, and perhaps they will inspire you in some way. 

Be wise, be well.

-NR