For too many children's books, the illustrator is the unsung hero. While the writer basks in the adulation of fans-parents, children, and teachers alike-whenever a new book is launched or celebrated, often they forget to acknowledge their partner illustrator. And this is sad, considering that it is the critical relationship between text and illustration that makes a book a picture book.
FROM TEXT-BASED LITERACY TO VISUAL LITERACYIn an ever-evolving digital world, there is, increasingly, a blurring of boundaries between disciplines, particularly in the creative and media industries. The constant emergence of new media and, consequently, new visual language, are continually providing the public with opportunities to read, not only books and magazines, but also film, internet content, apps, TV shows. To be able to respond to these critically, and understand their context and impact, the reader needs to develop visual literacy from a young age. The role of the Illustrator is thus critical in bringing this about. From being mere page decorator, the Illustrator is now challenged into taking a bigger role in defining the final product, by adding a second layer of meaning to the text. The role of the Illustrator in picture book-making is now increasingly evolved and redefined to be co-author of content.
ILLUSTRATORS AS CONTENT CREATORSPicture books and children's book apps offer possibly the most significant co-authorship opportunities for the illustrator. Like the author, an illustrator's personal beliefs inevitably find their way into the public space in the form of a book. Their work allows them to draw from their life experiences and circumstances, and weave their values, beliefs, and advocacies into their work. Thus, content is not the monopoly of the writer. The conventional value placed on text-based literacy often excludes the illustrator from authorship. In a world that is becoming increasingly visual, however, the concept of authorship is being redefined.
THE ILLUSTRATOR'S MANY HATSAn Illustrator may wear several hats, depending on the book project they're working on. These roles may be classified into three basic job descriptions: problem-solvers, conceptualizers, and storytellers.
Illustrators are problem-solvers. To be a good illustrator requires doing a lot of homework for every project.
Like the writer they are teamed with, the illustrator is required to do research to be able to have a good grasp and a deep understanding of the topic and subject they are illustrating. Working with a writer, it is the Illustrator's responsibility how to present visuals to complement and explain the text.
Illustrators are conceptualizers.
Sometimes, however, for certain kinds of picture books, words are too awkward, or sometimes, they can be too much. Good illustrators come up with brilliant imagery and put it to work where words may sometimes fail. A good illustrator can plant the seed of an idea in the mind of the reader.
A good illustrator tells a good story - visually. Devoid of words, a page with just pictures can tell a story and engage the reader.
For all the hard work and value they put into every children's book, it's about time for illustrators to get the recognition they deserve.
