Writer/artist collaboration
RussDalton
From: russd...@aol.com (RussDalton)
Date: 4/16/01 11:38 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Message-id: <20010416113847...@ng-fz1.aol.com>
There seems to be an interesting disconnect between the way comics and
children's books handle collaboration between writers and artists.
obMarveluniverse: I get the impression that, since the "Marvel style" came into
being, comic book
creators are quick to realize that comic books are a visual medium and
collaboration between writer and artist is encouraged. Since there are
elements of the story that are visual and not put into words, it helps if the
author explains to the artist what she or he has in mind, even if it does not
show up in the script. Likewise, the artist may have some insight into how to
tell a visual story that effects the script. So collaboration makes for a
better story.
On the other hand, if an author is submitting text for a children's picture
book, they are advised that they should not presume to suggest anything about
what the illustrations may look like or even what is to be illustrated.
"Writer's market" books advise you that suggesting visuals is a sure way to
turn off a submissions editor. A friend of mine has illustrated several
children's books, and says that her editor strongly discourages her from having
any direct content with the author of the book she is illustrating.
Any thoughts or insights on why this is the common practice in children's
literature?
Russ Dalton