I was contacted in Fall of 2007 by fellow SCBWI member, Linda Leaf-Bolin, with a query about illustrating a children's picture book. Linda had written a lovely manuscript interpreting the Lord's prayer through Native America eyes. She wanted to use the picture book as part of her Native American Culture presentations, where she speaks to civic and religious organizations.

Linda had seen some of the Native American illustrations that I had completed for an interactive children's display at the Kentucky History Museum. Based upon that she asked if I'd be interested in painting the illustrations for her book. I told her that I would only consider doing it if she would in turn, during the process, teach me more about Native American culture. The strength of my illustrations comes from learning about what I'm drawing, and expressing that understanding in paint.

Contrary to a normal picture book illustration project, where the illustrator is under contract with a publisher, and does the illustrations all together, this book was done over a year and a half, page by page. It was a great opportunity for me to learn more about Native American culture and imagery. Linda Leaf-Bolin, as a Native American cultural presenter and storyteller was a fantastic guide to have in painting the picture book illustrations. Her text is a lovely blend of prose and teaching.

Below are a couple of my favorite double page spreads from the book.

Working on the illustrations for this book has been a wonderful learning experience. With such a patient and communicative Elder, such as Linda Leaf-Bolin guiding my paintbrush, I've truly enjoyed working on this project, and I'm very proud of the outcome.

You can order the books by going to http://www.leaf-publications.com/site/?page_id=11 or contacting Linda Leaf-Bolin at leaf7@cox.net

Please click on the link to see more about Linda's Native American Cultural presentations.

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