Creative Visions, Up Close and Personal

In this interview, Kelly reflects on the challenges of balancing parenthood and education as she continues to push her creative boundaries.

Q: Becoming a parent was a turning point for you. Can you share how motherhood inspired you to return to drawing and explore illustration in a deeper way?

Absolutely! It all started with a song. I sang to my son every day before he was born, and after his arrival, I continued this practice. Singing was the most effective way to soothe him, and it became a special bonding ritual for us. Eventually, I wrote a song specifically for him, filled with positive affirmations. This inspired me to consider creating a children’s book, and I began to think about all the things I wanted to write for him, including things I wished I had been told as a child.

With each line, I could envision its accompanying image; it felt like watching a movie play out in my head. However, I lacked the skills to bring these ideas into reality. I’ve always enjoyed drawing, but I never progressed beyond a basic level, which is what led me to search for an online art school so that I could develop the skills to bring my vision to life.

Q: You’ve spoken about wanting to create empowering children’s books. What kinds of stories or messages are most important for you to share through your work?

I want to emphasize the importance of setting boundaries. It’s essential for children to understand that it’s okay to say no and to advocate for themselves. Additionally, I believe in the power of speaking up and using one’s voice. Children should learn that their opinions matter and that they have the right to express how they feel.

Another crucial theme is self-love and worthiness. I want to share stories that teach children to appreciate themselves and recognize their value, regardless of external circumstances. Ultimately, I aim to create narratives that inspire confidence, resilience, and empathy, helping children navigate their world with strength and compassion.

Q: How has your experience with vision impairment influenced your artistic process or perspective as a visual storyteller?

As someone who is legally blind, I perceive the world differently from those with typical vision. This limitation leads me to get very “up close and personal” with my subjects, whether I’m working from direct observation or zooming in when creating digital art. While there are certainly challenges that come with my visual impairment, I’ve found that it allows me to cultivate a heightened awareness of the finer details around me. Embracing these limitations has encouraged a profound appreciation for the subtleties in life.

Q: What has it been like developing your creative voice and illustration style in an online program?

Developing my creative voice in an online program has been quite interesting. I’m learning about topics I didn’t even realize were connected to art, and I’ve discovered numerous mediums and styles. I’m still trying to pinpoint my personal style, but at the very least, I now know what I like and what I don’t like. I’ve also found new things that I’m drawn to, so I think I’m starting to get an idea of who I want to be as an artist.

“I believe in the power of speaking up and using one’s voice.”

Q: What kind of support or feedback have you received from instructors that’s helped shape your work or build your confidence?

I’ve received a wealth of constructive feedback from my instructors. Their insights have ranged from specific suggestions on how to enhance my work to a simple “job well done”, which always boosts my confidence.

One instructor who stands out to me is my Cartooning Course Instructor, Bill Drastal. He takes his commitment to teaching a step further by providing personalized video mini-lessons. They not only clarify his feedback but also demonstrate techniques and concepts in a way that resonates with my visual learning style. This has also made the learning process more engaging and enjoyable. Overall, the constructive criticism and personalized support I’ve received have been invaluable in my artistic development.

Q: Can you describe a moment in your studies when you felt proud of what you created, or felt like you were really finding your voice?

Not to toot my own horn because it took me a while to reach this point, but I can honestly say that I am often proud of myself and the work I create.

I’m particularly proud of some of my charcoal portraits and pieces created in Illustrator. Two particular pieces that come to mind are a recent portrait of my late uncle and the product label design for motor oil that I developed in my Illustrator II course. I spent many hours perfecting it, and both the instructor and some of my classmates loved it. I received a lot of positive feedback on it when I shared it for critique. It was one of my first pieces to be featured in the student gallery, and I thought that was just the coolest thing.

Q: As someone balancing parenthood and creative study, what advice would you give to other students who are navigating multiple roles?

First, I’d say that organization and working ahead have been key for me in meeting deadlines. At the start of each semester, I take advantage of the lighter workload. Once I complete my initial assignments, I use that extra time to start on the upcoming weeks’ tasks. I keep a dedicated notebook where I write out each week’s assignments. This allows me to determine their order of importance and identify which tasks will require more time and effort.

“The constructive criticism and personalized support I’ve received have been invaluable.”

By tackling the less time-consuming work first, I free up time to focus on more complex and time-consuming assignments. This strategy not only helps me stay ahead but also reduces stress as deadlines approach.

Second, I recommend just breathing. Things can get overwhelming at times, especially if you have children. They become increasingly needy, and while it’s our responsibility to attend to their needs—something that should never be neglected—it’s crucial, during stressful times, to step back and reevaluate the situation. Take a moment to step away and decompress. Always remember what or who you are doing this for, and don’t lose sight of the bigger picture.

Q: What are your hopes or goals for your career as an illustrator and author—where do you dream of seeing your work?

Since starting at Sessions, my goals have shifted slightly. The field of illustration is much larger than I anticipated, and I’ve discovered a passion for painting. I am considering pursuing a career as a freelance artist. Meanwhile, I would continue working on my books. Ultimately, I would love to see my books in libraries, stores, and elementary schools. I’d also love to donate them to child psychologists/therapists, as well as have my artwork featured in magazines, advertisements, and displayed in the homes of art collectors.

To find out our more about degree and certificate programs in illustration at Sessions College, visit our Illustration learning hub and check out our Student Gallery.