So normally I interview other people, but in September last year (2024) I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Tibo Torelli. Tibo is a lovely guy, who writes hilarious books, and we met at the monthly SCBWI Picture Book Crit Group. He is also the co-Network Organiser of the Scottish branch of the Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). Long-time readers might recall me writing about what it was like to go to the first of the SCBWI annual conferences that I attended – SCBWI British Isles Conference 2023 Review.

He asked me how I got into illustration, and what my influences, tools, and process were. We talked about my studio space. He also asked me (me!) for advice. He asked what I recommend people do when they get stuck on a project and for general advice for artists who are just starting out.

It felt really strange to be asked offer advice. That might sound odd considering that I teach, but here we are. Oliver Jeffers said that his advice was essentially what he would have said to his younger self. So I took that approach and suggest you bear that in mind when reading it, or, really, any other advice you come across. It’s not all going to fit you (and that’s okay). Dig out the hidden gems and treasures from the pile and leave the rest.

If you’re curious, here’s my view own “Artist Interview: Shelley Skail” on the SCBWI website – From the Studio of Shelley Skail