Behind the Brush: The Magic of Storytelling Through Art
This Lea from one of my best selling books in Belgium by author: Nadine De Graeve Available for purchase here on my website.
Every Picture Tells a Story
Have you ever noticed how children’s eyes light up when they flip through a beautifully illustrated book? It’s not just the words that captivate them; it’s the world those words create—brought to life through art. As an illustrator, my goal is to take a story and make it visually unforgettable, creating images that resonate with readers of all ages.
This blog entry serves as an outline of what you can expect from the full content behind the paywall in the Studio blog. Here, we'll touch on some basic concepts and provide a framework for gathering more in-depth information. Dive in to get a taste of what awaits, and if you're eager for the complete exploration, consider subscribing for full access to all the juicy details!
From “Lea Goes Bang” beautifuly written in Dutch by Author Nadine De Graeve, this depicts the harrowing experance of her family during WWI, as they escaped pursicution and death to a Dutch Farm.
Illustrations in children’s books do more than decorate the page—they tell a story of their own. They set the mood, convey emotion, and spark imagination, often saying things that words alone cannot. It’s this magic that drew me to this career, and it’s what I strive to create with every stroke of the brush (or tablet pen!).
The Power of Visual Storytelling
Three blind mice created in water color
A child’s first encounter with a story is often through the pictures. Long before they learn to read, they “read” the images, absorbing the narrative through the expressions of the characters and the details of the setting. An illustrator’s job is to guide this journey, ensuring every page captures the spirit of the story.
The Little Witch. A story of a witch who’s hair grew everytiime she did magic. Created digitally
For instance, think about a bedtime story with a gentle, comforting tone. The illustrations might feature soft, muted colors and rounded shapes to evoke calmness. In contrast, a tale of adventure calls for bold, dynamic compositions and vibrant hues to create excitement. These decisions go beyond art—they’re about understanding how children connect with stories on a deeper level.
From Sketch to Storybook
Every illustration begins with a blank page and a question: What does this story need? Here’s how I approach the creative process:
1. Understanding the Story: I immerse myself in the text, noting key emotions, themes, and moments that need to shine.
2. Sketching Ideas: Using those insights, I create rough sketches, experimenting with character designs, layouts, and compositions.
3. Adding the Magic: Once the sketches are finalized, I bring them to life with colors, textures, and details that enhance the story’s world.
One of the most rewarding moments in this process is when the author sees their story come alive visually—when their words and my art combine to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Why Illustrations Matter
1Illustrations can transform a good story into a cherished memory. They’re the reason kids beg to read their favorite book again and again. They spark curiosity and foster creativity, helping children see the world not just as it is, but as it could be.
Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together
Whether you’re an author dreaming of your story in print or a parent seeking inspiration for your child, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Stay tuned for the next post in this series, where I’ll share how I bring characters to life—from their very first sketch to their final form.
Share your thoughts! What’s your favorite illustrated children’s book and why? Let’s celebrate the art of storytelling together!
