Hear are a few sketches from the SCBWI New York Lucky 13 Conference. One of the most valuable break out sessions was with Cathy L., Goldsmith from Random House. I didn’t do a sketch of her. I was too busy taking notes. She gave great information for the illustrator. A few tidbits she shared were put your best samples up front in your portfolio and to front load it. She also said to have children and small animals in your portfolio. It was great to get valuable information directly from the creative director. It was also great to see Laurent Linn do such a great job of moderating the Book Makers Dozen. The SCBWI Conference expands your scope from where you are and sends you off in a direction with more knowledge than you had before. It also connects you with other writers and illustrators from around the country which become friends and a part of your network. It was a great thing to participate in.
Fabulous. You nailed it, Sherry — the sketches AND the great thing about conferences!