Most times an illustration “illuminates” a story. Text comes first, illustration follows. But that is not always the case. In the creative process rules are meant to be broken, toyed with, and stretched. Sometimes a story appears simultaneously through words and images. Other times, an illustration serves as the starting point for a story.
A couple of years ago I created a series of Inktober drawings. – Inktober is a self-motivated creative challenge. The original idea (by Jay Parker) is to create one ink drawing a day during the month of October. The objective is to improve your drawing skills and to develop positive creative habits.
When I shared these ink drawings online, something unexpected happened… Spanish children’s book writer Niño Cactus felt compelled to write tiny stories to go with them. I couldn’t be happier! I love the way his words interact with my images, creating new meanings and possibilities.
I’m always in awe of other people’s creative energy. Don’t you think it’s fascinating to learn how artists or writers get their inspiration from? Well, I do! And I love that my art inspired someone else to create. Before I share the results of this unexpected collaboration, I want to dare you to do something:
This week, can you find inspiration in an unlikely place? What new unexpected things can you bring into your own creative process?
Stories by NIÑO CACTUS. Illustrations by Diana Toledano.
Part 2 of this collaboration coming next week.
Para preparar un desayuno al sol es necesario elegir una buena lectura y la mejor compañía. Me parece que hoy tengo mucho apetito.
For a sunny breakfast one needs good books and the best company. Today I'm hungrier than ever.
La señora Rana es muy hogareña. Sólo salimos a pasear los días de lluvia en los que el campo entero parece su charca.
Mrs. Frog loves her home so much that we only go out for walks on rainy days, when the whole field is her pool.
Nunca sé dónde me voy a despertar de la siesta. Hace dos días me levanté al borde mismo de una cascada de agua cantarina. Al principio daba un poco de miedo, pero fue emocionante. Y hoy…, ¿abro ya los ojos?
I never know where I'm going to wake up from my nap. Two days ago I woke up at the edge of a singing waterfall. It was scary at first, but exciting as well. And today... Should I open my eyes now?
Ayer por la noche olvidé cerrar la ventana. Creo que se me escapó algún sueño, porque hoy el jardín inventa flores nuevas.
Last night I forgot to close the window. I think some dreams escaped because today the garden is inventing new flowers.