Anyone Can Be An Illustrator

One teacher in particular said of a student from a previous year: “I can’t believe that girl enrolled. She can’t draw and she certainly can’t write. And she never gets her work done on time.” Melton discovered she had a marvelous flair for color and design. She proved very receptive to the program and constructed a first draft that was very well written. Her excitement for her work and her finished product was obvious. She seemed to communicate to her unbelieving teacher: “I am more than you could ever see!”

Understanding the relationship between the creative and the academic brains is key to the success of Melton’s program. It can certainly be key to encouraging the creative spirit and artistic nature in each of us. Additionally, I believe the practical application of the finished product – the illustrated book – is a huge motivator for each of these students. Why write a dull “what I did this summer” essay when you can do a “write the editor” project on a topic you are passionate about? The prospect of seeing your letter published in the newspaper will do more for encouraging a good finished product than any series of lectures.

Resources

Melton, David. “Written and Illustrated By. . .” Landmark Editions: Kansas City, 1985.

Additional Resources

Ten Steps for Boosting Creativity

As businesses realize they need to foster creativity and innovativeness in their workplace to stay viable and competitive, there are countless companies offering consulting services to boost employees’ creative energies and capabilities. The suggestions listed below were offered on the Web site for JPB Creative Co, Ltd., a software company with offices in Bangkok and Brussels that is “changing the way people think.”

1. Listen to music by Johann Sebastian Bach. If Bach doesn't make you more creative, you should probably see your doctor - or your brain surgeon if you are also troubled by headaches, hallucinations, or strange urges in the middle of the night.

2. Brainstorm. If properly carried out, brainstorming can help you not only come up with sacks full of new ideas, but can help you decide which is best.

3. Always carry a small notebook and a pen or pencil around with you. That way, if you are struck by an idea, you can quickly note it down. Upon rereading your notes, you may discover about 90% of your ideas are daft. Don't worry, that's normal. What's important are the 10% that are brilliant.