Experimental Techniques for Picturebooks

Tell an original story using tempo, tension, and plot to create a wordless visual narrative from scratch

• Introduction
• The Stair - Starting From the Ground, Before Moving Up
• The Diving Board and The Trapeze - From Above, Before the Jump
• The Jump... and The Safety Net
• Final project

Picturebooks are a form of visual storytelling that act as an exercise in synthesis. Oftentimes, what you do see is as important as what you don’t. By considering each and every visual element of a picturebook, you can tell a memorable story that captures a reader’s attention and reflects on some of life’s most interesting moments. Discover the art of picturebooks and learn how to use color, texture, and composition to add plot and tension to your next visual narrative.

In this course, illustrator and author Catarina Sobral teaches you the fundamentals of visual storytelling for editorial projects like picturebooks. From conceptualizing your narrative to making first contact with a publisher, learn the essential steps for creating your own wordless picturebook. Continue to grow as an illustrator or author by exploring tempo and tension, experimenting with new techniques, and producing a printed mock-up of your final project.

• Introduction
• Influences
• What Will We Do in This Course?
• Picture Books: Definition and Mechanics
• Colour Theory
• Composition: Theory and Practice
• Text and Image Interplay
• Materials and Techniques 1
• Materials and Techniques 2
• Problem, Solution, Catharsis 1
• Problem, Solution, Catharsis 2
• Storyboard 1
• Storyboard 2
• Vocabulary and Grammar 1
• Vocabulary and Grammar 2
• Final Illustration 1
• Final Illustration 2
• Final Illustration 3
• Scanning and Retouching
• Mocking-up
• Children's Book Industry and Final Tips
• Experimental Techniques for Picturebooks