Illustration Inspiration: Lindsay Ward, Author-Illustrator of The Importance of Being Three
The Children’s Book Review | April 14
Born and raised in California, Lindsay M. Ward received her BA from Syracuse University. She is now a cut-paper artist living and working in Lakewood, Ohio.
Latest published book …
The Importance of Being Three, published by Dial Books for Young Readers.
Inspired by …
The idea for this book came from a project I was given while I was applying to graduate school. We were given three prompts, one of which was actually the number three. Although The Importance of Being Three is different from my original concept, I would never have created the book had it not been for that initial idea. From there the book developed into the concept of what it’s like to be a certain age, the type of milestones associated with that age, as well as the challenges. I’ve always been interested in patterns, and loved the idea of merging being three-years-old and things that come in threes.
Art medium used …
Cut paper, pencil, and ink.
Artistic process …
First I write, then I draw. Always. I work much better with an initial narrative. Many times the story changes while I draw as I piece together what is needed in the text vs. the illustrations. Sketching is an editing process for my writing in many ways. Once I have solid thumbnails worked out I graduate to full-scale drawings on tracing paper. The tracing paper allows me to transfer my sketches to the various papers I use for the finished art. I collect vintage, found, and recycled paper to create my illustrations, most of which would end up in the garbage otherwise. I feel that it adds dimension to my work, as you can look at the illustrations as a whole and then upon closer inspection see various details hidden within the paper itself. All of my illustrations are created traditionally, although I have been tempted to compile my collages digitally, I’ve never done it. I love the tangible feel of a finished piece of artwork too much.
Favorite place to create & illustrate …
My studio in the third-floor attic of my hundred-year-old house.
Most used art supply or tool …
Definitely scissors. I’ve used the same pair on every single book. I’m a bit superstitious about them.
Illustrator idols …
I’m partial to the Brits…John Burningham, Mini Grey, Polly Dunbar, Lauren Child, Emily Gravett, and Helen Oxenbury. I also adore anything illustrated by Suzy Lee, Oliver Jeffers, Erin Stead, and Ezra Jack Keats. My all-time-favorite is Mary Blair. She was truly fabulous!
All-time favorite children’s book you didn’t illustrate…
I Can Fly by Ruth Krauss, Illustrated by Mary Blair
A literary character to create art with …
Eloise. I think she would be so much fun to paint with.
Currently working on …
Two new picture books, BRO-BARIANS and DON’T FORGET DEXTER, which will come out with Two Lions in 2017 and 2018.
Connect with Lindsay Ward …
www.lindsaymward.com | Twitter
The Importance of Being Three
Written and Illustrated by Lindsay Ward
Publisher’s Synopsis: The perfect present for three-year-olds, this picture book is a celebration of all things three!
All the best things come in threes, not one, not two, but three, like the three-year-olds in this sweet picture book. As all parents know, three is a big year. Follow along as three friends learn new things in threes—from tricycles to triangles—take a dip in the pool, and play in the park with their friends! Of course, it’s not all fun and games. There’s a tantrum and then hugs all around as the three kids head to bed.
This adorable picture book celebrating important life events is the perfect gift for third birthdays. Kids will love pointing out all the activities they can do now that they are three years old.
Ages 1-3 | Publisher: Dial Books | 2016 | ISBN-13: 978-0525428695
Available Here:
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