My Creative Life for Artists and Creators

Hi Everyone, I had the opportunity to chat with Mikia Kopanski, Instructor of Graphic Design and Visual Storytelling. I met Mika in my motion media class and wanted to learn more about his thesis research and teaching higher education.

To see more of Mika's work visit:

Hi Everyone, I got an insightful question during a school visit asking how I handle anxiety and creating art. I wanted to share my perspective on it. I hope my fellow artists know you are not alone. I provided some tips and ways I look at things to keep making art.

Thanks for listening!

Hi Everyone, my guest today is Scott Boyd, video editor for Zealot Inc. Here is a bit about Scott. Scott Boyd Award-winning video editor working at Zealot Inc, creating trailers, TV spots, and digital content for high-profile clients, including Disney, Sony, Netflix, and HBO. 

To see Scott's work visit:

Hi Everyone! I'm talking today about the Pros and Cons of getting an MFA. I tell people to research what fits best for their situation and interests. I finished my MFA about 8 months ago, and I noticed I got asked by others about getting their MFA. 

Here are some other interviews that talk about it:

Hi Everyone, I have my lovely return guest TeMika Grooms, Illustrator. She is the illustrator of "Put Your Shoes On and Get Ready!" by Raphael G. Warnock. TeMika shares the recent NYC SCBWI Conference Event and her process for creating her illustrations.

To learn more about TeMika visit her website:

Hi Everyone, today, my special guest is Dr. Sarah Park Dahlen. She is an associate professor at the School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Her research addresses transracially adopted Koreans in children’s literature, Frank Carpenter and Frances Carpenter and their writings for children, and diversity in children’s literature and library education. 

To learn more about her work:

Hi Everyone, my special guest today is Laura Lacámara, award-winning children's book author and illustrator. Here is more about Laura. 

Cuban-born Laura Lacámara is the award-winning author and illustrator of Dalia’s Wondrous Hair / El cabello maravilloso de Dalia (Piñata Books), a bilingual picture book about a clever girl who transforms her unruly hair into a vibrant garden.

Laura also wrote Floating on Mama’s Song / Flotando en la canción de mamá, a bilingual picture book inspired by her mother, who was an opera singer in Havana. Illustrated by Yuyi Morales and published by HarperCollins, Floating on Mama’s Song was a Junior Library Guild Selection for Fall 2010 and was a Tejas Star Book Award Finalist for 2011-2012.

Laura illustrated the 2012 Tejas Star Book Award winner, The Runaway Piggy / El cochinito fugitivo (Piñata Books), as well as Alicia’s Fruity Drinks / Las aguas frescas de Alicia (Piñata Books).

Laura recently illustrated Mamá the Alien / Mamá la extraterrestre (Lee and Low Books, 2016), which received a starred review from Kirkus.

To see Laura's work, visit:

Hi Everyone!  I had the pleasure of speaking with Marsalis Eason, a Contemporary Film Photographer currently residing in Savannah, Georgia. He was kind enough to share his artistic journey and how he balances a full-time job and pushes the boundaries of storytelling through his photography.

See his work at:

 Hi Everyone, my special guest is Shirley Ng-Benitez, award-winning children's book author and illustrator. She was kind to share her experience of going out on sub with her manuscript and then to get the call that it had been acquired! Yeah!! Here is more about Shirley and her wonderful cause Awetober!

Shirley Ng-Benitez

Hi Everyone, today's guest is Lisa Low Stauffer, children's book author and co-regional advisor for the SCBWI Southern Breeze. This interview with Lisa was full of information on becoming a published children's book author. She read her lovely story Two by Two, and she talked about her path to publication. It was fantastic!

Here is more about Lisa:

Although I secretly longed to write fiction since childhood, first I wrote my way through journalism, marketing, consulting, travel writing, and poetry.

My work has appeared in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Miami Herald, Literary Mama, Stories for Children, and numerous business websites, brochures, newsletters, press releases and magazine articles.

Today, I write picture books for children. I live in Roswell, Georgia, which is near Atlanta, and I’m a volunteer (Co-Regional Advisor) with the Southern Breeze region of SCBWI.

Travel is one of my family’s chief hobbies, so don’t be surprised if my blog post sometimes becomes a travel blogging platform! Most recently we’re starting to have adventures with a little camper trailer.

I’m active on social media (especially Twitter), so if you want to follow my adventures–both writing and travel — you’ll find links at the top right of this page.

To learn more about Lisa's work visit:

Hi Everyone, my special guest today is Charise Harper, award-winning author and illustrator of picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, and comics. Here is more about Charise.

Award-winning author and illustrator Charise Mericle Harper delivers a fantastically funny picture book about doing the impossible: drawing a horse. A children's metafiction book about creativity and imaginative play centered around an art lesson, Harper cleverly shows readers how drawings are a collection of recognizable shapes put together to create something new.

Here is a link to her site: 

Hi Everyone, my guest today is Taryn Cozzy, Creative Director for the Superhero Project. She is also an animator and illustrator currently in NC. I was fortunate to have worked with Taryn on a poster for the Superhero Project. It was an honor, and I recommend any artists that like to give back please check out their site for more details.

Here is more about Taryn:

Born and raised in Vermont, Taryn now lives in Burbank as an animator and freelance illustrator. She's illustrated 7 children's books and loves hiking, eating new foods, watching movies, and singing.

Taryn's Website:

Hi Everyone, my guest today is Amanda Bennett, a Fibers Artist based out of Savannah, GA. Here is more about Amanda.

Amanda Bennett is an interdisciplinary artist based in Savannah, Georgia.  Her work investigates how biomaterials can act as a conduit for storytelling that reconnects us to nature and provides a more ecologically-responsible approach to material-making.

See her work at:

Hi Everyone, I have updates with Keith Lee and Broly Su on their art journey and getting an agent. Seeing how their careers have flourished since I last spoke with them was great. Both are award-winning illustrators and continue to pursue their passions in illustration. They cover the steps they went through to get signed by their agents. I hope this discussion is helpful for you when looking for an agent.

To see their work, visit:

Hi Everyone today, my guest is Benson Shum, Animator, Children's Book Author and Illustrator. Benson talks about his start in animation and how he went on to work on writing and illustrating his first picture book. He offers advice to young students wanting to start a career in animation. Here is more about Benson:

Benson Shum is a children's book author and illustrator. The idea that an image or painting can evoke emotions and movement is what brought him to the world of picture books and animation. Benson uses watercolor, ink and digital tools to create his illustrations.

His newest book, Anzu the Great Kaiju received a starred review from School Library Journal and was selected for the Kid's Indie Next List for Jan/Feb 2022 by American Booksellers Association.  Alex's Good Fortune was also selected for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library 2022.

Benson is also an Animator at the Walt Disney Animation Studios, where he was a part of such films as Frozen, Big Hero 6, Zootopia, Moana, Frozen 2, Raya and the Last Dragon and Encanto. Originally from Vancouver, BC, Benson now lives in sunny southern California.

To see his work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today my special guest is illustrator and mural artist, Dannie Niu. She is an award winning illustrator to boot! Here is more about Dannie: Dannie is a freelance illustrator based in Atlanta, and she received her M.F.A degree in illustration at Savannah College of Art and Design. Being influenced by classical romantic oil painting from early childhood, Dannie never likes to portray despair and fear in her work. Instead, Dannie's work is always full of hope and fantasy. Dannie always likes to add some luxury elements in her work, she wants her work to be serious and dignified, but at the same time, people can relate to the brightness and wistfulness in her work. 

Hi Everyone! I was so fortunate to interview one of my favorite children's book illustrators, Samantha Cotterill. She is an award-winning illustrator and author of the Little Senses Series. Here is more about Samantha.

Samantha Cotterill is an award winning picture book author and illustrator of many books for children. Samantha has been featured in The New York Times (as illustrator for Just Add Glitter, written by Angela Diterlizzi) and The Wall Street Journal for her art in The Jinx and The Doom Fight Crime! (written by Lisa Mantchev). She has recently launched a book series for kids on the Autism spectrum and/or with sensory issues entitled Little Senses, with This Beach Is Loud! chosen for Dolly Parton's 2020, 2021 and 2022 book list for The Imagination Library.  Samantha is represented by Kirsten Hall of Catbird, and works out of her studio in Upstate New York.

Hi Everyone! In the episode I have return guest and cohost Keith Lee. He had some exciting news to share with us today. Also to share his love of editorial concepts and ideation. His inspiration has been Craig Fraizer's The Illustrated Voice. It's no longer in print but you can buy a used copy from your favorite used book reseller.

To see Keith's work visit:

Keith Lee, editorial illustrator

Hi Everyone! Today my guest is Robin Johnson, and she is sharing tips for searching for that inhouse job and getting an interview. I thought Robin's tips were very practical. Here is more about Robin:

Robin Martéa is a Fine Artist and Illustrator whose clients range from CNN Style to the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Since grade school, she has been heavily involved in the visual arts and has since then, developed a strong foundation in mediums ranging from painting to photography. She earned her Bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and received her M.F.A. in Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! I had the pleasure of speaking with Laura Alderson a children's book illustrator based in Italy! So cool! Laura was kind enough to share her art journey with us today. Here is more about her:

I grew up in the southern US, with an imagination ready for travel. In middle school I started writing a book set in Italy and my librarian encouraged both my writing and illustrations. My interests shifted to modern art while attending the University of Georgia, but I did sneak in a summer in Italy.

After a few years designing offices in Atlanta, I started painting oil portraits, and then our family moved to NYC, where my daughter grew up.

In 2011 our family unexpectedly moved to—where else? Italy! Wanting to start a new career from abroad, I decided to return to my original love of children’s book illustration. By this time I was ready to make use of years of accumulated art skills and cultural experience, as well as digital tools.

I am now actively looking for representation to illustrate children’s books. I look forward to talking with you!

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone, there is no special new guest today, but a reflective talk about what it has been like starting my art business. I recorded this in Dec. 2022, six months after I finished my master's degree. I figured it was a good point to stop and think about what I've accomplished so far and mention the things I've done to get my work out there.

If you would like to see my illustration work visit:

Hi Everyone! Tried a panel discussion on marketing ourselves and some of the current art scams we have run into. I hope this episode is helpful to anyone starting their art journey. In this panel, we have Nancy So Miller, Robin Johnson, Allen Zhang, Via Li, and Keith Lee. We are all working towards building our freelance careers and getting things going. 

To see our work:

Nancy So Miller, children's book author and illustrator, art licensing

Hi Everyone, today my guest is Alyssa Ruby, an illustrator, and fibers artist. She has a wide range of skills from 2D to 3D fiber sculptures. I am amazed by Alyssa's work. Here is more about Alyssa:

​To see her work:

Hi Everyone! I'm excited to have my guest Lisa Hetrick today! She is a graphic designer, illustrator, and teacher. She has worn numerous hats and was kind enough to share her expertise in building her freelance business. Here is a bit about Lisa.

Lisa is the creator of Indigo Jade Art.  She creates art that brings more happiness and joy into the world.  During our conversation, Lisa shares why she decided to bring her art direct to the consumer and how she’s doing that successfully!

Hi Everyone! My special guest is Michael Allen, comic book creator of Melon Cat. Here is more about Michael:

Michael Allen has been drawing and writing stories since his birth in 1994. In 2016 he graduated from College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA with a Bachelor's of Arts degree in Studio Art with a Drawing and Digital Media focus. After wandering around the Northeast and Texas as a nomad, he went to Savannah, GA to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design where he received a Master's of Fine Arts in Sequential Art in 2022. Now, he continues his comics work while doing his best to explain why Medabots should be reintroduced to the U.S. to anyone who will listen.

Hi Everyone! Today's guest is Karen Torok, a freelance illustrator based in Nebraska. Karen Torok is a surface designer and freelance illustrator. Here is a partial list of her clients American Girl Inc., Mattel, Parragon Books, Pearson Learning, PepsiCo., Random House, Scholastic, and Sterling Publishing. 

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today's guest is Jessica Yoon, a children's book author. I was fortunate to get to know Jessica through our agent Tara Gonzalez. Here is more about Jessica. 

Jessica Yoon is a second generation Korean American kidlit writer. Her stories revolve around family, food, and being a child of multiple cultures. She is an active member of SCBWI, 12x12, and the Harrisburg Asian Writers Collective. She is passionate about representation in children's literature and has provided freelance sensitivity reader services to We Need Diverse Books.

To learn more about Jessica visit:

Hi Everyone! Sorry to all the listeners, I accidentally missed a Sunday because I got my dates off. My apologizes! Here is a new episode!

Today I spoke with Eric Clark, a professor of art and ceramic artist. He has taught for eleven years in higher education. Here is more about Eric: 

Eric B. Clark is an Associate Professor of Art at Savannah State University. Eric is a ceramic sculptor interested in combining multiple construction and finishing processes to create unique forms with an industrial aesthetic.

To see his work visit: 

Hi Everyone! Today I have return guest, Jennifer Greive. I came across her from some of the other lettering artist I follow. Her work is super cute, and professional! I feel very fortunate to have her on the podcast. Here is a little about Jennifer. She specializes in t-shirt design, logos and branding. Her personal brand Fueled By Letters was born from her love for Typography and Hand Lettering. Jennifer started out at a very young age doing illustration, leading to the world of Graphic Design. Anime got her into design. She attended Stark State College of Technology and The University of Akron, receiving both an Associates and Bachelors degree in Graphic Design. Jennifer is available for commissioned work or visit her Etsy store to purchase a digital print. She is currently a designer for American Greetings.

To see more of Jennifer's work visit:

Fueled by Lettters

Hi Everyone! My special guest is Becky Lance, a children's book author and illustrator. She is based out of Portland, Oregon, and is also the leader of my picture book critique group with Storytellers Academy.

To see Becky's work:

Hi Everyone! Today my special guest in Jime Wimmer, illustrator, and art educator. Jime was kind enough to share her career and art education experience. Here is more about Jime:

Jime Wimmer currently resides in Savannah and is a full-time ​Drawing Professor. She instructs all levels, from Freshmen through Seniors in Traditional and Digital Drawing and Drawing for Storyboard. She raised two sons while working through her BS in Art Education and earning her MFA in Illustration. She has taught HS for ten years and college for over six years.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! My guest is award-winning children's book author and food ethnographer June Jo Lee. She is the co-author of Chef Roy Choi and The Street Food Remix (Food Heroes Series). The book was a Robert F. Sibert Informational Award Honor Book and Texas Bluebonnet Award Master List, 2018-2019. She also co-authored with Jacqueline Briggs Martin, Sandor Katz and the Tiny Wild, released in June 2022. They are published by Readers to Eaters.

To purchase a copy of the book.

Hi Everyone! I had the opportunity to take Elizabeth Silver's Start Your Surface Pattern Business. I learned some great practical advice about getting my pattern designs out there. I got enough courage to ask her to be on the podcast. Here is more about Elizabeth and links to her website and social media.

Elizabeth Silver is a surface pattern designer with 18 years of industry experience and her freelance work has been featured in major retailers like Party City, Bed Bath & Beyond, Target, Five Below, and evite.com. She has also licensed her art with over 25 partners, including quilting fabric, greeting cards, home decor, and all types of gift products. She is also to teacher behind Start Your Surface Pattern Business.

Hi Everyone! I chatted today with Kailee Roark an in-house designer the gift market. Here is a bit about Kailee: 

I'm a Designer/Illustrator currently living and working in Atlanta, GA as a designer for International Greetings Design Group. I am proficient in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, and have experience in repeat patterns, designing for print, color theory, composition, and illustration for gift wrap, bags, stationery, and greeting cards. I also have experience in other fields, including background layout design for 2D animated films, children's book illustration, graphic novel/comic work, and screenprinting.

To see Kailee's work:

Hi Everyone! I spoke with Morgan Huff, a children's book author and illustrator, and she was kind enough to share her creative process and journey in this interview. She has such a wonderful heart and perspective about the work we create as artists. Here is a bit about Morgan:

Morgan is a children's book illustrator and author based in the Pacific Northwest. I write and illustrate picture books as well as graphic novels for middle-grade audiences. Her clients include; Dreamworks TV, Harper Collins, Little Brown Books for Young Readers, and Zondervan Kids.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! I had a lovely chat with Lauren Emmons today! She is delightful and such a great resource for information on children's book writing and illustrating. Here is a bit about Lauren:

Lauren Emmons is an illustrator based in the cold tundra of North Dakota. She completed her Master's degree in Children’s Book Illustration from the Cambridge School of Art at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, England. Her clients include S&S and Peachtree Publishing.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today I spoke with Brandon Sugiyama, award-winning motion media designer, and professor. He's done ton of work in his career with major clients. Here is more about him:

Brandon Sugiyama is a visual storyteller passionate about connecting people with the world around them. He is lead animator on the Emmy award winning Netflix show, Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj. A director, designer, animator, and editor, he has over 10 years of experience working with award-winning agencies including BigStar, Framestore, Eyeball, Trollbäck+Company, Stardust, and Questus.  Brandon has also worked directly with clients such as TED Conferences, The Documentary Group, The New York Times, and The U.S. Olympic Committee producing work for feature length documentary films and high profile events.

To see more of his work visit: 

Today my guest is Annalise Kristensen, a motion media designer that I had to opportunity to meet in my MOME class at SCAD. Annalise is a delightful person to chat with. Here is a little more about her.

Hello! I'm Annalise Kristensen and I'm a visual designer with a passion for motion, UX/UI and branding.

When I'm not working, I'm exploring the woods of New Jersey with my dog to find the perfect spot for a secret base or the next entrance to Narnia. Right now, the next item that I want to cross off my bucket list is to buy an old bus and turn it into a tiny house and travel the States. Hopefully, I'll make it to Alaska.

Hi Everyone! I interviewed James Yang, an award-winning editorial and children's book illustrator. His book, Bus! Stop! was selected as an outstanding picture book by The New York Times and the follow-up Stop! Bot! is the 2020 Geisel award winner for the most distinguished American book for beginning readers. His newest book, A Boy Named Isamu is the 2022 APALA Honor Award winner.

To see his work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today we have illustrator Maya Shakur with me today. My lovely co-host Tiffany Gordon. Here is more about Maya. 

Maya Eliisa Shakur is a children's book illustrator, designer, and lover of plants and animals. Maya has directed this energy into creating the company Studio Mai, and is currently based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she is surrounded by inspiration in the forms of nature, culture, and the arts. Studio Mai designs and illustrates with these beloved aspects of life, sustainability, and inclusivity in mind.

To see more of her work visit:

Hi Everyone! It is Nancy and Keith on this episode chatting with Kathleen Lynch a NY-based illustrator and art teacher. 

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! I have Keith Lee hosting today and the illustrator we talked with is Broly Su, an Atlanta-based illustrator! Great guy! I'm surrounded by award-winning illustrators!

Here is more about Broly:

Broly Su is an Atlanta-based illustrator and graphic designer, who is currently pursuing an MFA degree in Illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, GA. Broly creates most of his work digitally, taking inspiration from the knowledge and beliefs like positivity, integrity, perseverance, and justice that he has absorbed from hip-hop music, graffiti, and street culture throughout the years. Heavily influenced by artists like Keith Haring, Steven Harrington, and Verdy, Broly also works with traditional techniques, such as acrylic, Posca markers, and ballpoint pens, to achieve his bold-lined and graffiti-like style. With a BFA degree in Graphic Design, Broly expands his work in design with strong typography, layout, branding skills.

Hi Everyone! I have Justen here with me today in this interview, and he is such a nice guy! I had to ask him to be on the podcast and share his story. Here is more about Justen. 

Character Designer/Vis Dev
Children’s book illustrator of “This-MAMA”
Game dev behind “Jaeger Automata”

Check out his work:

Hi Everyone! I am here with Cindy Liu a fellow illustrator and she was kind enough to share her art journey and the ups and downs she has had. I appreciate her honesty and she has beautiful work. 

Cindy mentioned the artist that inspired her: Atsumiko Imamura

To see Cindy's work or hire her visit:

Hi Everyone! I interviewed Andrew Wiens, Development Director of Guided Discoveries. He answered my questions on the nature of sales and how artists can learn to sell their work to an audience. Great chat! Here is more about Andrew and where you can learn more about Guided Discoveries.

Andrew is a former Executive Salesperson, who decided to pursue passion and pivoted to non-profit development. Now it is about helping children experience exceptional STEM education outside the classroom.

Lots of experience working within a small business unit where you are expected to wear many hats as well as within a global organization requiring worldwide cooperation.

Hi Everyone! I'm really into collaborations these days, and I wanted to share some interviews with people that are doing that in a big way. Allan Meade is the founder of the Concept Factory Atlanta. Here is more about Allan and his company. 

Kim-Hoa Ung was kind enough to speak with me about her experience as a children's book author and illustrator. We met through the connection from the Erin Murphy Literary Agency.  Kim-Hoa spoke about her inspiration for writing and illustrating, and how she persevered to get her debut title A Gift for Nai Nai. published. Here is more about Kim-Hoa.

My name is Kim-Hoa and I am a picture book author/illustrator and an amigurumi artist.

My two children inspired me to become an author/illustrator. One day while reading, my daughter asked why there weren’t any characters like her. It made me think about how nice it would be for my little girl to be able to identify with a character similar to her. That’s how my dream of publishing a children’s book came about. I hope to achieve that someday and to be able to dedicate it to my little girl and others like her.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today I interviewed Nabeela Washington the Editor-in-Chief of Lucky Jefferson. Here is more information about the literary journal Lucky Jefferson. 

Founded in 2018, Lucky Jefferson is an award-winning literary journal that generates interactive conversations around poetry and art by reforming the way journals are produced and shared. Lucky Jefferson is proud to feature poets and writers who have never been published, marginalized perspectives, and those who sought to pursue writing later in life. We exist to create spaces for those who wish to see themselves represented more boldly in the world; we help those same few build an audience and reimagine joy for their work. You can enjoy our print publications quarterly or four times a year.

Hi Everyone! This is Nancy and Keith from My Creative Life, and today we have Allen Zhang a fellow graduate illustration student talking about his concept work. We also sidetracked and talked about the eastern versus western thought process of ideation. That was really interesting and I hope we do another chat in the future about it. Allen recommended looking at the work of Man Ba and Erak. 

Warning regarding the images on the site as they are not appropriate for all ages.

To view Allen's work visit:

Hi Everyone! I have Little Boat a fellow illustrator on this episode. She talks about her aspirations and her background that led her to studying illustration. Here is a link to the artist she mentioned in the interview:

Hi Everyone! Today we are introducing the My Creative Life Magazine that we are working on as a team. The goal of the print publication is the highlight emerging artists from a variety of cultural identities that are transitioning into art careers. They are new and they are trying to get things started. I feel it is important to share their journey because we have gone through some unprecedented times. I think their stories will resident with those starting out. 

Here are the links to the 

Hi Everyone! This is a special podcast today, it is my first video podcast! Yeah! I have guest Keith Lee, and he is talking about starting his illustration career and a demo with his favorite pen.

Here is more about Keith:

Keith Alexander Lee is an illustrator based in Hong Kong. After obtaining his Master of Fine Arts in illustration with Savannah College of Art and Design, he is now working as a freelance illustrator. He Incorporates traditional drawing elements into his digital illustrations to create his unique style. His conceptual illustrations are simple yet thought-provoking. His areas of expertise include editorial illustration, poster designs, advertising, and packaging. He is creative, organized, a great communicator, and works well with others.

Illustrated for: Tesla, SCAN Magazine

Hi Everyone! I'm excited to announce I have an agent!! My agent is Tara Gonzalez,  Erin Murphy Literary Agency. She was so kind to speak with me today and tell us about her background as an agent, and share what are things she's looking for in a submission! Here is more about Tara:

Today I am speaking with Jeff Hinchee, an illustrator I have admired for his stunning work in paper and 3D. He was kind enough to share his art journey with me today. Here is more about Jeff and his work:

Jeff Hinchee is an illustrator and set designer. Blending 2-D and 3-D, his illustrations are an assemblage of traditional drawing and painting, cut paper relief, meticulous models, and the odd found object. His clients include Penguin Random House, The New York Times, The Washington Post, This American Life, Disney Theatrical, and Interview Magazine.  His illustrations can be seen at JeffHinchee.com.

For television, Jeff has created special illustrations and featured graphics for "Little America", "Single Parents", "Search Party, and "Transparent", as well as for the European Games, and numerous live musical events such as “The Wiz Live!” and “Hairspray Live!” on NBC. His extensive theatrical work for Broadway, opera and ballet can be seen at JeffHincheeDesign.com.

“When pressed through the mind of Jeff Hinchee, theater, character, imagination and concept take flight in his fascinating and ebullient tableaus.” —Chance Magazine

Hi Everyone! Today I'm chatting with Via Li a fellow illustration student. Via creates lovely paintings and prints and draws inspiration from fine artists like Egon Schiele. My cohost is Robin Mallory today.

To see Via work visit:

Hi Everyone it is my 97 episode! Yeah! I have Kelly Kiviranna a professional surface designer that has done work for various resorts, hotels, and casinos with her designs. Robin is my cohost today!

To see more of her work visit:

Hi Everyone, on this episode of My Creative Life I have return guest Robin Martéa. She just finished her MFA in Illustration and shared some tips about searching for jobs in the current market. Here is more about Robin:

Robin Martéa is a visual artist, born and raised in Mobile, Alabama. Since grade school, she has been heavily involved in the visual arts and has since then, developed a strong foundation in mediums ranging from painting to photography. She earned her Bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is currently pursuing her M.F.A. degree in Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

“I like to think of my paintings as a window into my daydreams. Chasing my dreams is often done in the most unconventional way: through a brush and a canvas. My art, which is a direct reflection of my imagination, is illustrated through drawings that are grounded in hope. What motivates me are the works of artists and illustrators whose art tells a story in an imaginative way. When viewing my work, I’d like for the audience to bring all their aspirations to the table. Whether young or old, my hope is that they leave with their minds full of imagination and their hearts full of inspiration.”

Hi Everyone, I spoke with Jennifer Thornhill an illustrator I met via SVS Learn's Children's Book Pro. She speaks about her journey to becoming an illustrator. Here is more about Jennifer:

I did the first part of my growing up in Alberta, Canada, and the second part in Ontario, Canada. Most of my hobbies as a child were related to arts and crafts. If I was indoors, I was drawing or working with craft supplies. If I was outdoors I was building forts in the woods with my siblings and cousins. My favorite thing growing up was Christmas. My twin sister and I started getting ready for Christmas on the first chilly day of August and didn't give it up until long after January 1st.  Christmas is still one of my favorite things. My ideal illustration project is a beautiful Christmas book. 
I studied Art and English at Nipissing University in Bracebridge, Ontario. After living in Northern Ontario for most of my life, I moved to Grafton, Ontario- a small town on the north shore of Lake Ontario, where winters are much more manageable. I live here with my husband, three sons, two guinea pigs, and one really cranky cat. I spend a lot of my time drawing, but also enjoy baking, nature and wildlife photography, and volunteering for activities at our campground.

To see her work:

Hi Everyone, today I speak with Amelia Leicht, designer, and teacher about her art journey.  Here is a little more about Amelia.

Hello! I’m Amelia Leicht (that’s me in the hat!), a Grad Student at SCAD and Creative Director currently based in Dallas, Texas. I have extensive experience in Graphic Design, Brand Identity, and Content Strategy. I am passionate about data-driven creative and storytelling and developing brand identities and experiences that foster meaningful connections with audiences. 

My entire philosophy towards my career can be summed up with two simple phrases: I want to do great work, and I want my work to do great things. I’m looking for a position where I can grow my skill set with new challenges and problems to solve in an environment that fosters growth and collaboration.

To see her work:

Today I'm speaking with Kat Albert a fellow classmate from my thesis class. She talks about her thesis project and how she manages and finds time for all of her creative projects and stay healthy as an artist. Here is more about Kat:

I’m a Filipino-American illustrator who specializes in digital painting, traditional watercolor, and a combination of the two.

After completing a Bachelor's degree in Multimedia Arts, I took up a Master’s degree in Illustration at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).

I love to illustrate narrative situations, imaginative whimsical concepts, and little things in life that spark joy.

To see more of Kat's work visit:

Episode 101. I had the pleasure of speaking with Lu Pan, who is a classmate in my Fiber's class that is majoring in accessories design. Lu's work has appeared in the Global Footwear Awards and House and Home Magazine. He's the first person I've met with this major and I wanted to learn more about it. 

To see Lu's work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today I have Charlie Carter a fellow illustration student here with me today. She talks about her journey into fantasy art and how she stays focused.

Here is a bit about Charlie:

Illustration and character concept artist.

For work inquiries or commission info: DM or email! katelace1665@outlook.com

Hi Everyone! Today I spoke with Tara Garrigan, a fellow member of the Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators. She talked about her art journey and the 2 businesses she runs. Here is a bit about Tara:

Tara creates with the intent to mesmerize and inspire. Her art is generally whimsical, vibrant, imaginative, and always leaves the viewer with a story to contemplate. She works in all mediums but mainly creates in watercolor and ink. More than anything, Tara's work is inspired by her vivid dreams and the mysteries of the universe. She often finds that her most recurring themes are trees, aquatic life, imaginary creatures, and organically shaped buildings. She also enjoys finding inspiration from other artists around the globe while drinking tea and browsing magazines at the bookstore.

See her work at:

Hi Everyone! I spoke with Steph Calvert of Steph Calvert Art on my podcast. She talks about some amazing tips for illustrators on marketing and promoting their work. Fantastic advice on marketing!

Here is a bit about Steph:

Steph Calvert is a one-eyed artist with a boisterous laugh and a never-ending love for all things snacky. She lives with her hilarious family - husband Josh, mom-in-law Carole, and kids Phil and Joy. Steph's a big fan of going on adventures, binge-watching old episodes of 30 Rock, and being ridiculous for the sake of comedy. Steph is available for freelance

illustration projects including kids' art, editorial illustration, logo design, and surface pattern design.

To see Steph's Art:

Hi Everyone! Today I have Angela Shenk with me today, an author and illustrator, and fellow member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Here is a bit about Angela:

Angela makes paintings, ink works, and other things. She mostly creates with watercolor, but she also jumps at the chance to create with oil and wax pastels, gouache and colored pencils. Angela’s childhood in the South, comfort food, vintage knick-knacks, children’s books, movies, music and hockey inspire her art. She finds beauty in people and moments that are seen as commonplace and unworthy of regard. Angela is a member of the West Hartford Artists Emporium and frequently exhibits at Open Studio Hartford. Her art is in the homes of private collectors as well as The West Hartford Library Foundation. She works in her home studio with one of her cats and a view of her favorite willow tree.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! I have the guest Russell Barnes today with me talking about his extraordinary cut paper creations that he photographs. 

About Russell Barnes:

Hi Everyone! I had return guest Caroline Hanlon talk about graduating and also tips for finishing graduate school strong. Here is more about Caroline:

My name is Caroline Marie Hanlon. I was born in Washington, DC in 1995, and grew up in Maryland - where you can still find me happily exploring. I'm a Summa Cum Laude alumni from Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in Illustration and a focus in Animation, I'm currently studying for my Master's (also from Savannah College of Art and Design) in Illustration. I'm influenced by everyday life and the world surrounding me. My work is filled with whimsicalness, with a hint of an underlying reality. When I'm not illustrating, I'm usually eating vegan food or walking about.

To see her work visit:

I had a return guest today with Quinn Johnson the Creator of Elders of the Runestone comic series. It recently launched and I sat down and asked him some questions that reflected on the journey of creating the series. 

Here is a bit about Quinn:

Hi Everyone! I had an amazing chat with Will Terry. I've been a fan of his since Folio Academy. It's was amazing that he took the time to speak to me about his work as an illustrator and educator. Here's a bit about Will.

Hi Everyone! Today I spoke with Norma Black, a fellow student in the SVS Learn Children's Book Pro Class. She shared her reason for pursing her art journey and children's books. She is currently teaching watercolor classes on Skillshare.

You can see her work here:

Hi Everyone! Today I have return guest Gillian Mallory, and she will be sharing how she stays organized in her studio space. I've taken Robin's advice and it has helped me to have a better workflow in my art practice.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! It is about mid-August when I recorded this. I just finished the 2nd internship with award-winning children's book illustrator R. Gregory Christie. This interview is the importance of interning with a freelance illustrator. Here is more about Mr. Christie.

R. Gregory Christie is an award-winning children’s book illustrator and lecturer with a long track record of creating inspiring art. He is an NAACP Image award winner and was the artist for the United Postal Service's “Kwanzaa Stamp” in 2013. He has done everything from designing John Coltrane album covers to animating films on Netflix.

Christie’s lectures on art, diversity and literature are family-friendly. His educational programs are fun and engaging, allowing audiences to find a love for books. He has been a guest speaker at conferences and libraries and teaches after-school art programs all over the country.

Hi Everyone! In this episode I go into 4 things I feel like I learned from book illustration. These things aren't related to technique or making a book, but bigger lessons about my own pursuit of becoming a children's book illustrator and author. 

Thanks for listening!

Nancy Miller Illustration Social Media

Hi Everyone! Today I have a cohost Robin Mallory who I interviewed from season 6, and we interview Professor Brian Bowes from our Book Illustration class. Here is more about Professor Bowes:

Hi Everyone! I have Tiffany Gordon, a fellow illustration student with me today. Here is more about Tiffany:

Tiffany Gordon is an Atlanta-based artist. She creates illustrations that connect heavily with humor and storytelling. With her BFA in Painting and Drawing from the University of Georgia in 2017, she is currently pursuing her MFA in Illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Tiffany is passionate about communicating humor and optimism with her illustrations and concept designs.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today I have an interview with Isa Monell, a fellow graduate illustration student. Isa was kind enough to share lots of information on her art journey and marketing information. Here is more about Isa:

My name is Isabel Monell and I love creating unique pieces of art. I know that my talent was a gift given to me so I could create wonderful art to share with others is the fulfillment of my dream. I'm an artist and hold a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art from Old Dominion University. I love painting. I have several years of experience with painting pottery, as well as working with acrylic, oil, and watercolor creations. Because I love creating I'm always exploring different mediums and seeing where it leads me...

MONELLISA was established in 2010, a small online boutique selling stationery items, artwork, and more.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! I had return guest Robin Martéa, fine artist and illustrator talk about some of the new things she has been work on and marketing tips. Here is more about Robin:

Robin Martéa is an illustrator, born and raised in Mobile, Alabama. Since grade school, she has been heavily involved in the visual arts and has since then, developed a strong foundation in mediums ranging from painting to photography. She earned her Bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and received her M.F.A. in Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

“I like to think of my paintings as a window into my daydreams. Chasing my dreams is often done in the most unconventional way: through a brush and a canvas. My art, which is a direct reflection of my imagination, is illustrated through drawings that are grounded in hope. What motivates me are the works of artists and illustrators whose art tells a story in an imaginative way. When viewing my work, I’d like for the audience to bring all their aspirations to the table. Whether young or old, my hope is that they leave with their minds full of imagination and their hearts full of inspiration.”

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today I have Emma Shaw a fellow illustration graduate major and the SCAD GIC President. She was kind enough to speak with me about her creative journey. It was very inspiring and insightful. To view more of her work visit:

Hi Everyone! I had the pleasure of chatting with Madeleine Donahue a fellow illustrator from my book illustration class. Madeleine has some lovely watercolor work. Here is more about her:

I am a freelance illustrator from the Bay Area currently based in Qingdao, China. Along with drawing and playing with my pets, I spend my time exploring the local wildlife. I particularly enjoy bird watching and love to incorporate native flora and fauna as well as creatures from my hometown in Northern California into my work.

I received a BA in studio art from Kenyon College and am working on my MA at Savannah College of Art and Design.

My focus is book illustration, particularly picture books. I am also interested in children’s illustration, surface design and editorials, focusing on environmental and social justice issues.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! I met Ciana Malchione a talented cut paper illustrator from the SVS Learn Children's Book Pro course. I was love the textures and colors that she achieves in her illustrations. Here is more about Ciana:

Hi there! My name is Ciana Malchione. I'm an arts educator and aspiring picture book illustrator. I'm originally from the small town of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, the self-proclaimed "Mushroom Capital of the World." (Everyone's gotta be proud of something, right?) I now live in New York City, where I recently graduated from The Cooper Union. My signature geometric style is an ever-changing dance between pattern, texture, and shape.

To see her work visit:

Hi Everyone! Today I interviewed Keith Lee, a fellow illustration student. I really enjoyed getting to know Keth in my Book Illustration class. He does an amazing job with the concept and shared some great tips about improving your illustration skills. 

Hi Everyone! Today I got to speak with Emmlou Smith a fellow graduate illustration student in my Book Illustration class. She has lovely work and also teaches as a foundations professor. To see more of her work visit:

Hi Everyone! Justice Lanclos and I got to know each other during our time in Book Illustration. I'm glad to have gotten to chat with Justice further and talk about her illustration work today. 

To see more of her work visit: 

Hi Everyone! I have a special guest Diane Earley the Creative Director for Charlesbridge Publishing with me today! I got enough courage to ask her to be on the podcast to give listeners a chance to hear from a creative director what it's like working with illustrators and what she is looking for. It was very informative and I really enjoyed speaking with her. I learned a great deal from it.

Here is some more information about Charlesbridge Publishing. Charlesbridge Publishing is an independent publisher of high-quality books for children and young adults. Our books promote reading and discovery in the classroom, library, and home and reflect a belief in the power of knowledge and the value of story.

Hi Everyone! End of season 6, and I wanted to talk about the top 4 things I learned from taking an animation class. I was super nervous about being taking the animation class, but I'm so glad I did. In the episode, I talk about as an illustrator why you should explore animation. 

Thanks for listening!

Nancy Miller Illustration Social Media

Hi Everyone, it was a great pleasure to chat with Jeffrey and Ginger from ASIFA-South and Slotique. They are a fascinating couple! They are on the leadership for ASIFA-South and they run their own animation studio called Slotique. They talk about their experiences with ASIFA-South and building their own studio. 

To see more of their work visit: