The following are essays written originally for conference presentations about illustration, writing and reading, as well as some interviews. These may be of interest to students, teachers and librarians (and possibly other illustrators). For further comment on particular books, refer to the ‘books page’ and also the ‘frequently asked questions’ page. Please excuse the fact that I probably repeat many of the same points across all these different essays!
IBBY Keynote, London 2012: 'Strange Migrations'
– A paper delivered at a conference of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), speaking to the theme of 'crossing boundaries, migration and translation.'
PICTURE BOOKS: Who Are They For? (2002)
– my reaction to the common assumption that illustrated stories are only for children.
SUBURBAN ODYSSEY: (2012)
– Excerpt from a catalogue introduction / interview for an exhibition of landscape paintings and illustrations at Fremantle Arts Centre, Perth.
WORDS & PICTURES, AN INTIMATE DISTANCE (2010)
– An essay about the visual language of illustration, originally written for ABC Radio National's Lingua Franca.
ORIGINALITY AND CREATIVITY (2002)
– some general remarks about creative process, and the question of what originality is.
THE RABBITS - AN INTERVIEW (1998)
– a discussion about this picture book, shortly following publication in 1998.
ADVICE FOR A NEW ILLUSTRATOR (2011)
– An extended list of general tips on working as a professional freelance illustrator based on my own experience.