As mentioned in previous postings, I was really working the craigslist angle. Casting digital nets in the internet sea was producing responses but I was just not able to catch that fish that I felt could express my Magic Reindeer.
My brother in law is a talented landscape artist who was using ETSY to post and sell his artwork online. As I was navigating through that site to look at his paintings, my eye was caught by a drawing of an owl. This owl was curiously yet sharply drawn with captivating detail. Equally captivating was the vivid colors used to create this visual beauty.
I clicked on this owl and studied it a bit more with child-like curiosity. I then followed the links to the artists' site and saw more animals of equal grace, sharpness, color and exactness. Wolves, dogs, peacocks and many more. It did not take long for me to visualize this style in the form of ... a reindeer!
The style of this work was captivating. I spent a good amount of time looking at each work, admiring the amazing detail and splendor of each one. It seemed the art took on a quality of craftsmanship to it as well, much like a Faberge Egg. I could not think of anything more than how this artistic style would be such a great match to express the emotions of the book I wanted to create.
Fortunately, there was a 'contact' link on the page. I began my dialogue with this artist who was going by the name, 'OLA', by sending an email that read, " I have been looking for an artist to illustrate a children's book" and continuing by asking, "would you be interested?"
The response was, "yes"! With that response, I began the process of telling this story, which is similar to selling this story of a magic reindeer. This is not an easy task by way of email. I had no idea who this person was, what country they were from, did they even speak english? It is difficult to tell a story not knowing who your audience is, what they look like, not seeing any reaction as you tell your story, almost feeling like Helen Keller I suppose.
I am happy to say we got off to a great start and the story must be a good one because OLA seemed interested by it.
-JH Kindt
