Year of the Horse... and of the SCBWI Golden Kite Honor!
First, the big news: Lu and Ren's Guide to Geozoology was chosen as a SCBWI Golden Kite honoree!
Additional big news: The American Library Association also saw fit to include Lu and Ren in their ALA Best Graphic Novel for Children Reading List.
Lu and Ren have had quite the debut year journey. A heartfelt thanks to everyone who’s supported me on the way!
The Year of the (Draft) Horse
Since the previous Year of the Ox I've been making Geozoology-themed illustrations for the zodiac animals. This year marks the sixth year I've done these illustrations, which means I'm halfway through the series. You'll just have to stick around for another six years to see it completed. ;)
Equus zephyrus, more commonly known as the draft horse, frequently graces the skies above the Luvial Flats. Equus zephyrus herds are known for kicking up storms, leaving a thick blanket of nimbostratus clouds in their wake.
Though individual Equus zephyrus herds have well-defined ranges, their impulsive nature makes it nearly impossible to predict their movements. A sunny day in Equus zephyrus territory can suddenly and unexpectedly turn into an overcast one, or even a downpour.
I work mostly in the digital medium for the sake of efficiency and portability, and I'll use gouache in plein air studies, but every once in a while I'll make an illustration using gouache. It's a nice change of pace, even if I inadvertently find myself making the double-tap-to-undo gesture on the paper.
I've been missing the creatures something fierce while I've been traveling this month. In the meantime, I'll assuage my feelings by sharing with you this photo of Audrey and Babadook delivering a masterclass in that time-honored sibling game of I'm Not Touching You:
You can now get a copy of Lu and Ren's Guide to Geozoology wherever books are sold! I recommend getting it from Bookshop.org or directly from your local independent bookstore.
RESOURCES FOR OUR TIMES
As always, I urge everyone to inform themselves of their rights and their neighbors’ rights, and to be aware of what to do if you see someone being detained. Stay safe, and keep each other safe.
Migrant Solidarity Mutual Aid (DC-MD-VA area) - look into mutual aid groups in your own communities
SALUTE zines (covers many major metropolitan areas in the US)
ACLU’s Know Your Rights
5 Calls
Gaza Soup Kitchen
Your local food bank
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