The Finished Owl and Lemmings

Here's the final piece. I'm very pleased with the mood lighting I was able to create with the sun peaking through the trees. Now let's hope this owl gets the message to the right critter!

About portfolios

I am 5 months into my 1 year timeline of being ready to send out my work to publishers etc. I think I am making great progress and know I will be ready, (my one big dilemma for next year is  whether or not I will really have the time to dive into projects with my current family obligations...humm?) 

I am planning on attending the Miami conference in January to get feedback on my portfolio, but I first need to make enough WOW pieces to assemble it. Since the holiday season is starting to ramp up, I know I won't have much time at the end of the year. I have been doing some research on how to assemble a portfolio and what to include etc.

I wanted to share some links I found that may be helpful to others in a similar situation. Also, if you are a professional illustrator reading this and want to share some of your thoughts about assembly, or anecdotal experience, please leave a post below.

Some of the articles below were written recently and some a few years back, but I found that most had many similarities. Most agreed on showing small portfolios, dividing the work by styles if you show different styles, creating a logo for yourself, showing no more than 15 pieces, and the most important element....only show your best work!

I am also on the market for a good small portfolio case, if you have any suggestions please let me know! - What do you think of leather cases vs. aluminum cases?

• Heather Castles - How to build an illustration portfolio
  
• How to be a Children's Book Illustrator - Blog
• Art and Illustration Community  Creating a Portfolio by Ingmar Zahorsky
• Self-Promotion for Illustrators by Phyllis Pollema