Laurie Ellen Angus

WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR IDEAS?

From nature. I spent much of my childhood exploring and observing almost every nook and cranny of the outdoors and my fascination for the natural world has followed me into adulthood.

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE TO PUBLISH YOUR BOOKS?

From idea to publication, "Octopus Escapes Again!" took about 3 years-- a year and a half researching and creating the illustrations and text, and another year and a half collaborating with my publisher (vetting, more editing, polishing), then the publication process. "Paddle Perch Climb"  took about 2 years.

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU DEVOTE TO MAKING BOOKS?

I'm involved in the many facets of picture book making almost on a daily basis, either in my studio, or outdoors on the lookout for inspiration.  When in my studio, I prefer to work in the mornings, but sometimes become so fully absorbed with a project the entire day has passed by—I fondly call it the "black hole" because once I enter I may never be seen again! 

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO READ?

I've always been a huge fan of short story mysteries. This genre has had a strong
influence on my books.

ARE YOU WORKING ON ANY NEW BOOKS?

Yes! I am working on two new books. The first is about beneficial creatures in the garden. The second book is about venomous ocean creatures. 

WHAT TYPE OF MEDIUM DO YOU USE FOR YOUR ARTWORK?

My children's book illustrations are created from a paper collage technique. It's one of my favorite mediums and is conducive to the bold design and color that I am looking for. I use handmade papers from all around the world.

DO YOU PREFER TO ILLUSTRATE OR WRITE?

Although I enjoy both, I always visualize a story in pictures first. The words then follow.