I’ve had an idea floating around in my brain for ages. It is starting to take shape. This is just the beginning.

The lovely Colleen Jones kindly invited me to be the featured member for this spring. I was truly honoured to be asked and really enjoyed the interview process! Thank you Colleen!

You can read the interview by clicking on the link below.

http://ireland.scbwi.org/2016/05/31/spring-2016-featured-member-illustratorauthor-abigail-hicks/

I recently finished the dummy for a story that I’ve been working. As a little treat for myself I decided to do the colour on one of the sketches. It’s not finished yet but I am happy with the way it is progressing. I love these characters so much!

My first conference, my first portfolio showcase! What a trip! It was an overwhelming but inspiring experience. I feel energised and eager to revise and create and be bolder in my choices. I hope that the momentum of the conference is something that I can maintain now that I am back home.

This is my entry for the 2016 Tomie de Paola award. I submitted it back in early December but as the competition was anonymous, I’m only posting it now. I really enjoyed creating this piece. I decided to make it a contemporary version of the classic Red Riding Hood story so I added some backstory. I tried to represent Red as a spunky, energetic child in need of a “job” to occupy her. My Red is an older sibling in a household with an overworked mother with a small baby in need of a bit of a break. I didn’t win but I’m pleased with how this piece came together.

Entry for 2016 Tomie de Paola award

I’ve finished my piece for the scbwi “draw this” new monthly art prompt. Here it is:

It was done with watercolour and acrylic. No retouching once I scanned it in, although it was hard to resist!