I used to want to be a children's book illustrator. I love the various styles used by artists who so colorfully tell a story. But I didn't feel I had the right style or ability to put on paper what others wanted to see.
I'm still really drawn to children's book illustration, and especially to illustrators who paint -- watercolor, acrylic, oils...
For some reason I really wanted to paint yesterday, so I drug out some of my acrylics and brushes and went to work on this little bird and sunflower design. It's nothing fancy, simple lines and colors, but I like it! =) Maybe I'll tack it up on the wall!
The painting is 9x12.

You need to quit your day job and get yourself out their as an artist and illustrator. You could be making zillions, that is if you're not already! You are sooo super talented I can't stand it!
Posted by: michelle | May 31, 2007 at 03:48 PM
Ok, so why aren't you selling these paintings? I totally see this as a book jacket for a children's book, a self-help book, or even a general story book. Have you ever read "All I really need to know I learned in kindergarten."? That guy writes really great and funny stuff (sorry, I'm blanking on his name) and you could paint his next book cover. I see it now...coffee mugs, bookmarks, keychains. Just kidding about the keychains. :) Seriously, you are so very talented. Thank you for sharing it with us and for inspiring me every single day.
Posted by: Missy from Indiana | May 30, 2007 at 03:52 PM
Splendid!! TFS,
Posted by: Juanita | May 30, 2007 at 01:57 PM
I love the "simple lines". It is adorable. It has the "look" that catches my eye. You do awsome work!!
Posted by: happy_stamper_Nancy | May 30, 2007 at 09:27 AM
Love it emmensely!
Posted by: Beth | May 30, 2007 at 08:21 AM
ANNA!!! I think this must be meant for me! Hellooooooo....SUNFLOWER! Now I'm thinking I should commission something from you for my craft room...we're gonna have to talk about this!
Posted by: Leigh O'Brien | May 30, 2007 at 04:53 AM
This is such a fun illustration. It would be perfect in a kids book!
Posted by: Amy Nichols | May 30, 2007 at 01:42 AM
I admire all of your talents! I think you would make a wonderful illustrator!
Posted by: Michele | May 29, 2007 at 08:00 PM
Anna this is wonderful! I love his cute little face! Carrying his little heart!
Posted by: kim | May 29, 2007 at 07:53 PM
Wow! This is just GREAT! You MUST frame it and hang it up, I love it! Can't wait to see MORE!!! :)
Posted by: diane mcvey | May 29, 2007 at 06:07 PM
Anna, that is wonderful!
If I ever write a children's book ... I'll sure know who to contact to be my illustrator! :)
Posted by: Sarah Vrolyk | May 29, 2007 at 05:20 PM
Anna, that is wonderful!
If I ever write a children's book ... I'll sure know who to contact to be my illustrator! :)
Posted by: Sarah Vrolyk | May 29, 2007 at 05:20 PM
Anna, that is wonderful!
If I ever write a children's book ... I'll sure know who to contact to be my illustrator! :)
Posted by: Sarah Vrolyk | May 29, 2007 at 05:19 PM
I know what you mean about finding your own style. There are several artists I admire and I tell myself that would be my style if they weren't already using it! :) But, I've seen your cards here and at SCS and you DO have an identifable style, so be inspired by your own card and stamp designs and go for it!
Posted by: cheryl robinson | May 29, 2007 at 03:25 PM
this is just wonderful - sweet and i love the graphic quality. bold and colorful. nice simple designs. beauteous :-)
More please :-)
Posted by: Tracy | May 29, 2007 at 03:11 PM
I meant "excellent if you ASK me." Sorry.
Posted by: donnalayton | May 29, 2007 at 02:57 PM
This is absolutely adorable. Excellent if you as me. I think you're a painter!
Posted by: donnalayton | May 29, 2007 at 02:55 PM
wow, I think children would be very drawn to these vibrant colors and the simple shapes kids love! You are truly an amazing artist in so many ways! TFS!
Posted by: Sherrie | May 29, 2007 at 01:33 PM
You should have been a children's book illustrator. This is wonderful, and it looks like something off of a child's book. It kind of reminds me of the book with the Goose and the old woman on the cover that had all of the nursery rhymes in it. I have you added to my reader, I can't wait to see more of your art!! :)
Posted by: Trisha | May 29, 2007 at 10:54 AM
You just ooze talent! This picture is great -- I think you'd be a FABULOUS illustrator :) ~Jenn
Posted by: jkincolorado | May 29, 2007 at 10:00 AM
Oh Anna,
I think you'd be surprised at what people want to see. Your artwork has always inspired me. Honestly, what have you got to lose?
Chris
Posted by: Chris Hauck | May 29, 2007 at 09:03 AM