Brigid Malloy
Children's Illustrator
Who or what made you want to become an illustrator?
When I was little, I originally wanted to become an animator so I practiced drawing characters from different angles with different poses and expressions. It wasn't until high school when I discovered how much I enjoyed painting. This made me decide on becoming an illustrator because I still utilize that drawing skillset I practiced when I was younger and now can combine it with my newer love for painting.
Talk us through the process of creating one of your latest illustrations or books.
When I illustrate a spread, I begin with a rough sketch to layout the major shapes and objects to get the general feel for the compostion. At that point it could look like a bunch of squiggly lines. I'll then scan my rough sketch and open it in photoshop where I'll trace over with a tighter sketch. When the tight sketch is done and printed, I'll place it on my light table and trace the sketch onto my watercolor paper. Then it's ready for painting! Once the painting is completed, I'll scan it again and (depending on the project) finish it in photoshop.
What is your favourite children’s book and why?
My favorite children's book growing up was Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel. I love humor and I think that book had a major influence on me as an illustrator.
Animals feature heavily in children’s books – do you have a pet?
I have a cat named Pippin. He is a very fluffy boy and I draw him from time to time.
