by Greg Pizzoli
Last year I was super busy illustrating a book with a pretty quick turnaround. I think I got the offer in September, and the book was due January 1. So after sketches were approved and everything, I had a little less than three months to do the final artwork for a forty page book (plus covers). It was doable, but just. I wasn’t going have time for anything else. No screenprinting. No writing. Nothing.
Except . . . I had this opportunity. There was an offset printing class with an opening at the university where I teach part-time, and my department head offered me a chance to audit the class and make a book. The whole idea of the class is that you spend half a semester designing a single-sheet book to be printed on an offset press. The second half of the semester you make films, mix inks, and (under the guidance of the Master Printer) assist in printing the book.
I love offset printing and I love making books. I had worked on this press before so the learning curve wasn’t too bad. And the opportunity to make something on my own was just too appealing to pass up. So I signed up for the course and got to work on a project that had been brewing in my sketchbooks for a few years. It was pretty weird, and kind of dark, and I felt certain no publisher would ever be interested in it, so I decided to make a zine. Just an exercise in putting text and images together, simply made for the sake of making it.
Several times I almost dropped the class because of my other commitments. I was too busy to make the art for the zine the way I normally would, and I was nervous about it looking terrible when we went to print. My teacher encouraged me to stick with the class, but to simplify the art so I could produce it faster. She reminded me that I was making this just for me, not for anyone else. The idea that I wasn’t making this zine for publication freed me up considerably, and working on it was really refreshing—it was influenced much more by my design and comics interests, and it just felt different than my other work.
I printed the zine and mailed some out to some people I had worked with or hoped to work with someday. Not pitching the idea—but really just saying—“I love making this stuff! Here’s this weird thing I know you’d never publish that I made!”—excited to share it, but no expectations.
You might guess where this is going—within a month of sending it out, I had a two-book deal with Viking Children’s Books—both dream projects for me. I’ve been researching, writing, and drawing, and a greatly expanded version of that little pamphlet-stitch zine will be an actual picture book in stores next winter! It’s totally different than anything else I have done—and that’s exactly what made it so appealing to my new publisher.
So, looking back on that time last year I guess two things are apparent:
1) Sometimes limitations (meaning your time, or maybe the number of colors/words/pages you can use) will force you to be creative in unexpected ways and 2) Doing the work that you feel driven to do (as opposed to guessing what publishers will want) can produce work you might not expect—and even if you think no one could ever publish it—you might be wrong.
Good luck this month!
Greg Pizzoli is an author, illustrator and screen printer from Philadelphia.
His first picture book, The Watermelon Seed, was published by Disney*Hyperion Books in 2013 and Publisher’s Weekly called it “an expert debut” in their starred review. Greg has more books in the works with Disney*Hyperion, Viking, Candlewick, and FSG.
Greg’s work has been featured in Communication Arts, 3×3 Illustration Annuals and he’s won two Portfolio Honor Awards from the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.
After college, Greg spent two years as a full-time volunteer in AmeriCORPS from 2005-2006. In 2009, he received his MFA from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he now teaches.
He recently gave up drinking (as much) coffee.
His screenprinted works have been exhibited in the United States, Canada, Spain and The Netherlands. His hand-printed artist books are in various collections throughout the country, including The Rare Book Department of the Free Library of Philadelphia.
See more of his work at GregPizzoli.com and GregPizzoli.blogspot.com. Follow him @GregPizzoli on Twitter.
Greg will send a random commenter a pair of hand screenprinted blank cards!
This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
345 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 3, 2013 at 9:10 am
rnewman504
Congratulations Greg! Wonderful post!
November 3, 2013 at 9:12 am
Valerie McPherson
Love to be under demand like this! Good for you!
November 3, 2013 at 9:13 am
mochamusing
Wow. That’s a great story.
November 3, 2013 at 9:13 am
supermario6
Can’t wait to read this book! Rosemary Basham
November 3, 2013 at 9:14 am
Anne Bielby
Inspiring!
November 3, 2013 at 9:15 am
Kari Twedt
What an amazing class! It is great that you have such a caring support group around you! Thanks for sharing!
November 3, 2013 at 9:16 am
Angela De Groot
Funny that – you think there’s no possible way you could squeeze any more into your day and then, when you really have to, you find a way. I like your advice about doing it for yourself – it’s so much more fun that way and it REALLY takes the pressure off. More conducive to creativity.
November 3, 2013 at 9:20 am
storyfairy
That’s awesome!
November 3, 2013 at 9:22 am
Peyton Leung
I can see how limitations might lead to creative solutions. I wonder if self-imposed limitations might work for this as well. Maybe something to try this month!
Thanks, Greg, and thanks Tara for your words and inspiration.
November 3, 2013 at 9:23 am
heylookawriterfellow
I love your story just as much as I love your illustrations. That is to say A LOT.
November 3, 2013 at 9:23 am
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
I like your perspective and feel that it is amazing what we can accomplish! Thanks for your post!
November 3, 2013 at 9:25 am
Susie Sawyer
Gah! I love these lessons and they’re SO true! Having time constraints so often pushes me to write without overthinking and good stuff comes out! 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 9:27 am
taracreel
Tricky Vic looks awesome! I know my boys will love it 😉
November 3, 2013 at 9:27 am
lindaschueler
Two great pieces of advice. Sometimes I feel that I am most creative and productive when I have a deadline looming. Other times I think that I just need to forget what everyone else says and just write for myself.
November 3, 2013 at 9:29 am
Kit Umscheid
I love that you made the zine just for you and that made all the difference…especially since you had so much going on already. Inspiring! Congratulations that this exploration will be published as well.
November 3, 2013 at 9:30 am
Debra Daugherty
Greg: I enjoyed your story. I, too, find the less time I have to do a project, the more I get done.
November 3, 2013 at 9:30 am
Courtenay Schurman
Love this, Greg! As Nike puts it, “Just Do It!” If it’s meant to be it will happen, but you have to show up!
November 3, 2013 at 9:31 am
Vera Lisa Smetzer
Greg, how wonderful to have hooked into “dream projects” when you were in the flow of the work that you felt “driven to do.” May it happen over and over again! Thank you for the inspiring story to keep on keeping on!
November 3, 2013 at 9:34 am
Lisa Connors
Love your art. Congratulations! Freeing your creativity has turned your hope into reality.
November 3, 2013 at 9:34 am
Michele N Miller
Greg, how inspiring! I get bogged down with things I need to do and forget the things I want to do. Thanks for reminding not to forget!
Michele
November 3, 2013 at 9:37 am
Nancy Churnin
Greg, my junior reviewer, Ian Kiefer, 3, on my Dallas Moms Blog, LOVED The Watermelon Seed. You can see his review here: https://www.facebook.com/DallasMoms. How cool that that was your first book and now we have more to anticipate. As someone who never has enough time, I find your story about making time for your passion incredibly encouraging. Also, I love hearing about the wonderful reception you received for creating something you love with no expectations. Your post is an important reminder to listen to and trust our own voice and the joy we feel when we let go of what we think others want and write what we love.
November 3, 2013 at 9:37 am
Kathy Doherty
Thanks, Greg. I now know what a zine is!
November 3, 2013 at 9:37 am
aliciaminor
It only proved to show that hard work and dedication always pays off. You followed what your heart and mind dictate and you succeed. Good for you and we applaud you. Thanks for sharing your story.
November 3, 2013 at 9:39 am
Pia Garneau
What a great reminder that if you do what you love, great things will come from it. Congrats on getting your dream projects!
November 3, 2013 at 9:39 am
Jewel Sample
Indeed we never know what the squeeze of time will produce…I am glad you had the fortitude to take the class. Your choice came with a positive outcome. This inspires me to keep going even in the midst of having several irons in the fire. thank you for your post.
November 3, 2013 at 9:39 am
Sue Poduska
Great story, Greg. Thanks for sharing!
November 3, 2013 at 9:43 am
Mary Kate O'Keefe
A fellow Philadelphian!!
November 3, 2013 at 9:44 am
Susan Cabael
A wonderful reminder to work from your heart instead of for the market. It’s so true that when you’re pushed to capacity (like I feel I am now) you never know what greatness can come from it–thanks for the motivation! Can’t wait to read your new, dark book.
November 3, 2013 at 9:44 am
Pat Haapaniemi
Congratulations, Greg! Great post. Love your advice!
November 3, 2013 at 9:47 am
Alexa Kaufhold
Perfect parting thoughts Greg. Will be looking for your work!
November 3, 2013 at 9:47 am
jackiewellington21
This is amazing. One of my biggest regrets is that I am artistically challenged when it comes to drawing. However, my creativity runs deep. I can create stories and come from a long line of story tellers.
Growing up on a small Caribbean island, we had black-outs a lot, especially after hurricanes and thunderstorms. My great-grandmother would tell us ghost stories and Anansi stories in the dark. I remembered, in middle school here in the states, I had to illustrate my favorite stories of all time. So I attempted to draw a picture of Anansi the spider. When I was done, the teacher pat me on my back and said, “Good job on the green eggs and ham twist. I liked how you made the egg black instead of green.” I just shook my head and took the ‘D’ for effort. I never tried to draw anything else except for the triangles and quadrilateral I had to draw to teach math.
Thanks for the inspiring post. This was great!
November 3, 2013 at 9:50 am
katmaz2012
Thank for making realize I need to do a project that I didn’t think I had time for, but that REALLY wanted to do!
November 3, 2013 at 9:53 am
kathalsey
Love your work and this post. This line really resonated w/me: “Sometimes limitations (meaning your time, or maybe the number of colors/words/pages you can use) will force you to be creative in unexpected way” Thanks for telling us to believe in what we really want to do/write/draw! Cheers to your new book!
November 3, 2013 at 9:55 am
DianeKHower
Live the dream and follow your passion, this is another great story to inspire.
Thanks Greg!
November 3, 2013 at 10:00 am
Suzy Leopold
So much inspiration. So important to go with you heart. Thank you for sharing your experience and thoughts. ~Suzy Leopold
November 3, 2013 at 10:01 am
Denice R. Gilb
Great story .. something we all need to remember!
November 3, 2013 at 10:02 am
Elizabeth Metz
I am raising my morning coffee cup to the spirit of experimentation and the surprises that come with it. Thanks for sharing! Cheers!
November 3, 2013 at 10:04 am
Genevieve Petrillo
Great success story! I always use the word ZINE in Words With Friends. I was surprised it was a real word the first time I randomly used it to get my Z where I wanted it. Now it’s the star of the story. Yay for the zine. Congratulations, Greg!
November 3, 2013 at 10:04 am
Julie Falatko
Ohhh, I love this story. But at this point I’m pretty sure Greg could post some dryer lint and a weird thing from his pocket and I’d be like, “I’M SENDING YOU $20 FOR THIS ORIGINAL PIECE OF ART. ALSO PRE-ORDERING FUTURE DRYER LINT.”
November 3, 2013 at 10:05 am
Tracey M. Cox
Thanks for the post Gregg.
I totally get time restraints. I started writing when I had 3 small children. I learned to take my writing in snipets. During nap time when they were younger, at practices has they grew. You would think that now 2 are grown (chef & army man) I would have more time. Nope, my husband has had unexpected sicknesses lately. So I take care of him.
Still, I push through. I have a need to write. I love the process. I’m glad you shared one if your hectic moments. Thanks for thee inspiration!
Onward How!
November 3, 2013 at 10:08 am
Beth Gallagher
What a great post, and congratulations on your 2 book deal, Gregg! Seems like success comes when we are making something that we love. I love to make books too, but usually handstitched, artbound tomes. Now that I have two wonderful daughters at the age of full social and sports schedules, time is short for my own stuff. You’ve inspired me, though, to carve out a bit of time for myself and will dive back into what I love to do. Thanks!
November 3, 2013 at 10:09 am
Laurie Young
Thank you so much for your inspritational blog…. I too have second guessed myself in what I write or draw to please the publishers. I know go with my heart and have 2 published children’s picture books . It is with a small publishing company but doesnt’ feel any less exciting…. Thanks again… I truly loved your story of perserverence and dedication and of course… being you!!!!
November 3, 2013 at 10:10 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Great post – also enjoyed your blog post about the Watermelon Seed book, congrats on your success with that too!
November 3, 2013 at 10:12 am
Lori Dubbin
Thank you for sharing how and why you made your zine. The best part of the story is that someone convinced you to do it just for you and you did. Thanks for showing us that limits can be creative forces. I can’t wait to read it when it comes out.
November 3, 2013 at 10:12 am
Alisa Harris-Norico
Great reminder that time restraints can be a good thing. Best of luck with your future projects, Greg!
November 3, 2013 at 10:14 am
Laura Zimmermann
Great post!
November 3, 2013 at 10:15 am
nicole snitselaar
Very interesting year !
November 3, 2013 at 10:16 am
Heather Greene
Love your work. Thanks for the inspiration! Love your timeless style. Your website is so nicely streamlined to the visual.
November 3, 2013 at 10:16 am
Margaret Master
I remind myself to be creative just because. It’s interesting how if you take a drawing class, or say you sketch sometimes people think it’s cool. If say you enjoy writing they want to know if you’re trying to get something published. We might play basketball every Sunday because it feels good and it’s good for us, why shouldn’t our creativity be the same!
Off to do my idea of the day 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 10:17 am
yetteejo
I like surprise ending. Thank you for your story.
November 3, 2013 at 10:18 am
Laura Purdie Salas
Congratulations! And thanks for sharing. I love hearing from illustrators even though I’m not one.
November 3, 2013 at 10:19 am
Freckled Daisy Creations
This is just what I needed this blah Sunday morning! Thank you! Here’s to expanding our limitations!
November 3, 2013 at 10:25 am
cherylsec
How exciting! Congratulations! Your words are inspiring. Thank you!
November 3, 2013 at 10:28 am
kevanjatt
What an opportunity!
November 3, 2013 at 10:29 am
Sandy Perlic
Loved the takeaway from this: write what we want to, without worrying so much about what other people “want.” Thanks for sharing your success story!
November 3, 2013 at 10:31 am
Kathy Moncrief
So cool. I am not worthy.
November 3, 2013 at 10:33 am
Pam Jones
Really wonderful post and so true!
November 3, 2013 at 10:34 am
Camilla
That is fantastic! Wow.
November 3, 2013 at 10:40 am
Tracy Molitors
Greg, thanks for the encouragement to view our constraints as opportunities! Also the reminder to do what you love!!
November 3, 2013 at 10:40 am
Rachel Smoka-Richardson
Thank you for sharing your story! I agree that sometimes limiting yourself can create amazing, unexpected art.
November 3, 2013 at 10:45 am
Lori Mozdzierz
Time restraints can be our biggest ally – at times!
Inspiring story, Greg!
Congrats on The Watermelon Seed and upcoming projects 😀
November 3, 2013 at 10:47 am
teresamis
“…doing the work you feel driven to do….” It all has a place 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 10:48 am
Jill Edmonds
I absolutely adore this story. Goes to show that if you follow your creativity and do work for **you**, sometimes good things can come from it. 😉
November 3, 2013 at 10:50 am
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
Thank you for such an inspiring post and congrats on your upcoming project with Viking. 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 10:52 am
Sue Heavenrich
Greg confirms the old saw: if you want something done, give it to a busy person. Busy people prioritize and organize and manage to get more done in a day than some folks get done in a week. Congrats, Greg, on the book!
November 3, 2013 at 10:54 am
Andrea
This is so inspiring! Thank you for sharing. I just experienced something similar on a much smaller scale when I entered Susanna Leonard Hill’s Halloweensie contest and had to write a story in 100 words. It really can force you to be creative or take a different perspective when you have some limitations.
November 3, 2013 at 10:57 am
RaChelle Lisiecki
Scary and dark doesn’t have to mean “un-doable”. Thanks, Greg, as I have a manuscript that is a little on the dark side. My boys LOVE when I read it to them. Sometimes, the stars line up and I’m happy yours did.
November 3, 2013 at 10:58 am
skeerswriter
Interesting post! I get more done the busier I am and the shorter the deadline. It takes courage to grab those opportunities, especially if they’re a bit scary!
November 3, 2013 at 10:59 am
Buffy Silverman
Love the look of Tricky Vic–congratulations!
November 3, 2013 at 11:00 am
Lynn Ann Carol
Congratulations on your second book. I’ll be watching for it. Doing art just for the arts sake is always the best with me. Thanks for the post.
BTW I loved THE WATERMELLOW SEED. What a great way to handle the fear all children have at some point.
Again, congrats,
Lynn
November 3, 2013 at 11:00 am
Laurie J. Edwards
A great reminder not to let the “to do” list or other commitments prevent us from doing what our heart is leading us to do.
November 3, 2013 at 11:02 am
danacarey1
No expectations, limited time + curiousity = great results!
Inspirational.
November 3, 2013 at 11:04 am
Jessica
I like this advice. It reminds me of when writers say to write the story you are compelled to write. Don’t worry about where it might fit in the market or how to categorize it. Just write what needs to be written.
November 3, 2013 at 11:14 am
shirleyngbenitez
So incredibly inspiring! Thank you for this wonderful post.
November 3, 2013 at 11:15 am
Kari Allen
Love this story. Do what you love!
November 3, 2013 at 11:15 am
danielledufayet
Great story and reminder to focus on our calling. Thank you!
November 3, 2013 at 11:23 am
Linda Knoll
Awesome! There is nothing more satisfying than going through the entire production process yourself.
November 3, 2013 at 11:26 am
Susan Halko
I love PiBoIdMo!! Thanks for inspiring us with your story, Greg, and congratulations on all of your projects!
November 3, 2013 at 11:30 am
Debra
I liked his comment about creating for yourself and not thinking about writing for the editor or what you think the publisher might want.
November 3, 2013 at 11:30 am
The Ink Pond
Love this! Being true to our work and pushing our limitations is both satisfying and has potential for amazing return! Thank you for the encouraging post!
~Tia
November 3, 2013 at 11:31 am
Hayley Barrett
What a wonderful testament to prioritizing creativity. Thanks, Greg!
November 3, 2013 at 11:31 am
beckylevine
I loved THE WATERMELON SEED! Great post, too.
November 3, 2013 at 11:34 am
Jennifer Kaap
Awesome story! Thanks 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 11:34 am
Larry Brimner
As I read Greg’s post, it occurred to me that, although I have three books under contract, the reason I much prefer to write without a contract is because it frees me up to write what I want, how I want without the pressure of deadlines or editorial whims. Bravo to you, Greg, on your projects, and many thanks for reminding me of what I need to do to restore my love of writing.
November 3, 2013 at 11:35 am
Patricia Holloway
I loved hearing about your creative process. Sometimes it is especially important to create without influences of time constraints, deadlines and the end product. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
November 3, 2013 at 11:44 am
viviankirkfield
They say that when you need something done you should find the busiest person and ask them…they will find a way.:) Point proved with you, Greg.:) Thanks for sharing your inspirational story – and congrats on the awesome book deals!
I truly believe that when we follow our passion, we are on the right path.
November 3, 2013 at 11:45 am
Jessie Oliveros
Limitations do push you, don’t they?! Thank you for sharing the story, that’s pretty amazing!
November 3, 2013 at 11:48 am
amievc
The photos you selected for this post are beautiful and inspiring. Seeing your Tricky Vic book at various stages gives us a great insight to that magical process. Thank you so much for sharing your work and advice!
November 3, 2013 at 11:49 am
Heather Gale
Greg, love the fact you shared with us photo’s of your artistic techniques along with the story behind the story.
November 3, 2013 at 11:50 am
Stephanie Shaw
“and even if you think no one could ever publish it—you might be wrong.”
So true! Thank you, Greg. Your post (and the work you do) is inspiring.
November 3, 2013 at 11:52 am
Ingrid Koller
Thank you for the ironic reminder that limitations can be freeing.
November 3, 2013 at 11:52 am
Mary Jo
As practically my entire professional existence is driven by deadline, I agree that the lack of one can be wonderfully refreshing. But I also find that the deadline also keeps me on task so I need to feel that I have one – even self-imposed – in order to produce anything!
November 3, 2013 at 11:53 am
Lori Alexander
Congrats on the 2-book deal–I love a happy ending!
November 3, 2013 at 11:57 am
Lynn
This is such a great take-a-chance success story, and a very hopeful and encouraging one. Thanks for sharing it with us, and I wish you continued success.
November 3, 2013 at 11:59 am
Lynn A. Davidson
Sorry, my full name didn’t come up that time.
November 3, 2013 at 11:58 am
Noel Csermak
Makes me feel like I should take on more to boost some creativity!
November 3, 2013 at 12:06 pm
Sylvia Liu
I love this post. What an inspiring story. When you did what you loved under time and other constraints, you produced awesome work.
November 3, 2013 at 12:07 pm
Teresa Daffern
Wow! Thank you for sharing that Greg. I love how certain opportunities or commitments can sometimes take us on an unexpected path. I also love how your freedom to create took off when there were no outside expectations. Sometimes we just need to create for ourselves!
-Teresa Daffern
November 3, 2013 at 12:14 pm
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
Love this: “Sometimes limitations… will force you to be creative in unexpected ways” and the reminder that we should be open to change.
November 3, 2013 at 12:18 pm
Bridey Mendoza-Moore
Great inspiration. I love how things often turn out differently than one expects if you let them. A hard thing for me to do, but outside constraints have often helped! Thank you!
November 3, 2013 at 12:23 pm
Sally Spratt
Thanks Greg. I always work better when I have too much on my plate. I get lazy otherwise.
November 3, 2013 at 12:23 pm
Jacki Morris
the note about doing this for yourself being “freeing” was inspiring – thanks!
November 3, 2013 at 12:25 pm
Micah Clarke
Biting off more than you can chew can be delicious. Cheers!
November 3, 2013 at 12:25 pm
tammi sauer
Greg is my hero.
November 3, 2013 at 12:28 pm
Susan Nicholas
I like how you took a project that you enjoyed and found a way to make others enjoy it too! Thanks for the inspiration.
November 3, 2013 at 12:30 pm
pbgirl1
Thank you for sharing your process. Wow! to illustrate an entire pb in a few months? Talk about pressure.
November 3, 2013 at 12:31 pm
Louann Brown
Can’t wait to see the finished product!
November 3, 2013 at 12:46 pm
LeeAnn Jensen
Thanks you so much for your insights!
November 3, 2013 at 12:51 pm
Patrick Waldron
Greg, how does this apply to coming up with picture books? Was that zine a picture book? Were the people who have told me not to send off-the-wall-stuff to editors and agents wrong?
November 3, 2013 at 12:53 pm
kirsticall
What a wonderful success story!
November 3, 2013 at 12:54 pm
Sarah Kilfoil
Thank you for the positive spin on limitations! Rather than being discouraged by my daily juggling act of being mom, wife, employee, sister, daughter etc, I am embracing those roles and fitting my snippets of writing into my day!
November 3, 2013 at 12:58 pm
Janie Reinart
Congratulations Greg! When we free ourselves up magic happens. My favorite quote is:What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?”
Thanks for your post!
November 3, 2013 at 1:01 pm
Ellen Mott
Greg, you are inspiring! Makes me wish I could draw more than stick figures. Thanks so much for your blog.
November 3, 2013 at 1:08 pm
LovableLobo
Very inspiring! Thanks for sharing.
November 3, 2013 at 1:11 pm
Joanne Sher
VERY cool – love your story. Need that release – freeing for sure. Thanks for the encouragement!
November 3, 2013 at 1:20 pm
Lauri
Wow! Actually making a book sounds like so much fun. Thanks for the interesting post, and congratulations on all of your forthcoming books!
November 3, 2013 at 1:26 pm
abrianc
I am not a screenprinter (though I have done it before) but I am an illustrator and a bookbinder so I can relate very well to the thrill of making your own book even when there are other things on the docket! Great post 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 1:29 pm
Jim Hill (@heyjimhill)
Great story with the best kind of happy ending. Loved the Watermelon Seed and the illustration techniques you use. Looking forward to all the rest.
November 3, 2013 at 1:40 pm
tpierce
Thanks, Greg! Such great advice to embrace what comes before you and listen to your instincts (rather than try to figure out what publishers want).
November 3, 2013 at 1:47 pm
theitaliancob
Inspiring story, lovely art!
November 3, 2013 at 1:47 pm
wendymyersart
It does seem like the more I push myself and push the boundaries the more I come up with creatively. Thanks for the encouraging post.
November 3, 2013 at 1:51 pm
Linda Gammon
These are encouraging words. Thanks. Linda Gammon
November 3, 2013 at 1:55 pm
Sherry Walz
Thanks, Greg, for the inspiration. On days when I’m feeling I can’t write because I have too much on my plate, I’ll try to remember this story that you shared with us.
November 3, 2013 at 1:59 pm
Therese Nagi
Greg you have given me a challenge to see deadlines as opportunites to work creatively. It’s so easy to find excuses but that looming deadline can spur me to be a more committed.
November 3, 2013 at 2:09 pm
Erin Fennell
What an exciting story!
November 3, 2013 at 2:12 pm
Gabriel Patten
Fantastic story and I love the art! this is very inspiring. Thanks Greg!
November 3, 2013 at 2:14 pm
Catherine Johnson
Wow, that is very inspiring! Congrats, Greg!
November 3, 2013 at 2:18 pm
Eleanor rubin
Great post about simplifying and getting work done that is close to your heart. Thank you
November 3, 2013 at 2:21 pm
Iris Diamond
Congratulations Greg, and thank you for the great reminder to do the work for ourselves and not with an eye on possible publications :).
November 3, 2013 at 2:25 pm
phinnum
That’s really awesome advice, and very useful for me right now, since I’m working on a ton of different projects all at once and sometimes I worry I won’t be able to finish them all or put quality and effort into each one. Thanks for the great tips.
November 3, 2013 at 2:26 pm
Pam Brunskill (@PamBrunskill)
Congrats on your success, Greg! It just goes to show you to stick with things you love, even if you don’t think it will sell initially. And, by the way, I love The Watermelon Seed.
November 3, 2013 at 2:29 pm
writersideup
Greg, although I’m not doing PiBoIdMo, I’m thoroughly enjoying the guest blogs each day. This was great to read, and it’s definitely a good message! I recently had a similar experience in which an opportunity for a rare, short window of submission opened up. It pushed me to take an idea I had (from last year) that I had no intention of focusing on, developing new characters for and ended up with a whole new “series.” It ultimately got rejected because I don’t think it fit the editor’s taste or needs. I don’t think the editor actually read it, and made a quick decision based on the characters and content on the cover. I believe this since something specific on the last pages was left untouched.) But what’s positive about it is I now have an additional series I can start submitting 😀 So, yes, when we do work we are pushed to do that we may not have thought to do otherwise, it can possibly become an unexpected, good thing in the end. I’m still hopeful 🙂
Looking forward to seeing what you’ve done 🙂 Thanks!
November 3, 2013 at 2:31 pm
heatherj
Thanks, Greg. What an inspiring story of focus and fun.
November 3, 2013 at 2:32 pm
Scott Ralph
Very inspiring, thanks for sharing that story! I love writing just for myself…it’s the freedom that does it for me. 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 2:32 pm
Melanie Vickers
I know very little about zines. Your web page showed me what a zine looks like. Thanks
November 3, 2013 at 2:33 pm
Mary Flynn
I agree Greg its always best to be true to yourself rather than trying to guess what other will like
November 3, 2013 at 2:35 pm
Crystal McIntyre
Wow this is such an inspiration! Thanks Greg!
November 3, 2013 at 2:40 pm
nancydrewit
Cool story wit a very happy ending–thank you for sharing!
November 3, 2013 at 2:41 pm
Maria Gianferrari
Thanks for your inspirational post, Greg! How true–when we let our passions and interests drive our projects, the market will follow 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 2:41 pm
Debra Shumaker
What a great story!
November 3, 2013 at 2:45 pm
Rena Traxel
What an inspirational story. True.
November 3, 2013 at 2:51 pm
Anne Bromley
What a great and inspiring story about “being true to your school.” Thank you, Greg, for showing us how following your own interests can lead, indeed, to success.
November 3, 2013 at 2:54 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks for the inspiring story about following your passion.
November 3, 2013 at 3:06 pm
Zach Roush
Love the simple color palette! How many times did it normally take you to get the print the way you wanted it for the book?
November 3, 2013 at 3:06 pm
cathy john biggerstaff
Thanks for sharing these thoughts with us, Greg! I like the look of screen-printing so I’ll be checking out your books for my brands. Blessings to you and yours.
November 3, 2013 at 3:07 pm
Stella Jane Stauffer
Greg.. You are now on my #1 spot of, “illustrators-I-Love.”
Thank you for the great post. What you did with the art you created from the heart is something I have been trying to talk myself into for the longest time.
My inner critic won each time and I went back to the bad habit of giving the publishers what I thought they wanted.
Thanks for the kick-in-the-pants.
Onward!
November 3, 2013 at 3:08 pm
Donna Black
This makes me rethink how much I can get done. Thank you.
November 3, 2013 at 3:12 pm
Sheri Roloff
I’ve heard if you want to get something done, ask the busiest person you know. Sounds like you are living proof of that! I appreciate your inspiring words on limitations and doing work you feel driven to do. Thanks!
November 3, 2013 at 3:16 pm
Kjersten Hayes
That is an awesome looking zine! Thanks for sharing.
November 3, 2013 at 3:23 pm
writeknit
It is amazing when doing what you love turns out to be profitable also 🙂 A bit of coffee never hurts the process.
November 3, 2013 at 3:27 pm
cheryllovestoread
Can’t wait to see it on the shelves! Then I’ll say, “I knew this book as a little screen print project. My how it’s grown!”
November 3, 2013 at 3:32 pm
Yvonne Mes
Oh, now I am inspired to do a printing class one day. That looks gorgeous, and I love the message. Thank you!
November 3, 2013 at 3:36 pm
Barbara Messinger
Zinetastic! Great advice and story!
November 3, 2013 at 3:46 pm
Mary McClellan
Proof positive of the wonderful things that happen when we allow ourselves to do something for the joy of doing it.
November 3, 2013 at 3:51 pm
bnkupetz
I enjoyed your post and I think it really resonates with writers. So often we look at our idea, our great title, our finished product and say, “No one will ever thing what I have done is anything special.” I think many of us talk ourselves out of loving something we have poured our heart and soul into or stop short of taking the next step with it. I know I have a few of those projects sitting in the filing cabinet. Let’s hope we all can believe in the ideas we come up with this month and maybe even get a few of those in the filing cabinet out again. Although we always hope to learn and improve, let’s remember to take pride in and have confidence in our work! You just never know. I think you made a great point, “Even if you think no one could ever publish it—you might be wrong.”
November 3, 2013 at 3:52 pm
svaisnoras
Love Watermelon Seed. I also like your comment to write the book you are driven to as oppose to what you think the publisher wants.
November 3, 2013 at 3:52 pm
Danielle Heitmuller
I love the sentiment of the post, and I love the printing! It looks so beautiful, graphic yet rich. Thanks for the contribution!
November 3, 2013 at 3:53 pm
Kimberly Vogel
Thanks for your inspiration! Let’s keep doing what we love. Just because!
November 3, 2013 at 3:54 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Great inspiration and great story!!
November 3, 2013 at 3:55 pm
Russ Hogle
Thanks for the inspiration.
November 3, 2013 at 3:56 pm
rlkurstedt
How exciting and beautiful. Thanks for the reminder to continue to learn and do that which feeds our creativity.
November 3, 2013 at 3:57 pm
Marcy P.
Oh, this was lovely encouragement!!! What a GREATstory- and it’s TRUE! Thanks for sharing it. Now I’m off to writing every book I KNOW publishers will never want to publish! Okay, just kidding… but I AM off to writing the books I want to write. Bless you!
November 3, 2013 at 3:57 pm
cat jones
You’re so right. As I get more work I seem to manage to write more…
November 3, 2013 at 3:57 pm
Colleen Jensen
Fun reminder to step back from the pressures and focus on what you enjoy. I like it!
November 3, 2013 at 3:58 pm
laurazarrin
I love Greg’s work and this post came at a time when I’m experimenting a bit. It’s great encouragement! Thank you.
November 3, 2013 at 4:00 pm
Denise Bowman
Congratulations! Thank you for the reminder that opportunities often show up in unexpected places.
November 3, 2013 at 4:02 pm
sherry alexander
Love the book, and it appears to be a favorite with my grandson. Thanks for the inspiration.
November 3, 2013 at 4:10 pm
ellenramsey
Thanks, Greg. This is an inspirational post–and I’m eager and curious to see the finished book.
November 3, 2013 at 4:11 pm
Matthew C. Winner
Greg, you are amazing! Thanks for putting awesome art into the world and for pouring into it your passion for beauty, simplicity, and fun! I know you know what a big fan my toddler and I are of the Watermelon Seed. Looking forward to all to come from you!
November 3, 2013 at 4:12 pm
Angie Karcher
What a great story! Love Greg’s work!
November 3, 2013 at 4:12 pm
Joanne Roberts
Thanks Tara. Congratulations, Greg. I find it so interesting that you courageously sent this zine out into the world. Regardless of the expectation, how many of us have that kind of courage? Thanks.
November 3, 2013 at 4:26 pm
Suzanne kaufman
Greg great post. Now I am onto sign up for class like you did. Thanks keep on rocking.
November 3, 2013 at 4:31 pm
bangersnmashdesign
It is so great that from your passion came a creative work that was also publishable. But to me, it seems like a no brainer, of course your passion would produce something that was worthy of publication. It’s finding your passion that is the hard part. You’ve inspired me to keep looking for mine.
November 3, 2013 at 4:41 pm
janejpark
This was really delightfully inspirational. I too am excited to see the new book that came from this purely for passion work. 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 4:42 pm
mbeaversillustration
Thanks for sharing this wonderful story! I just love when following your passion leads to bigger and better opportunities. Congrats, you’re work is wonderful!
November 3, 2013 at 4:45 pm
Gretchen Haertsch
Very nice post, Greg. It’s really an inspiring story. I was just at the SCBWI Fall Fest yesterday and heard Bryan Collier speak about finding that same passion. As a fellow Philadelphian (I teach part time at Arcadia) and a current MFA student, I salute your creative work.
November 3, 2013 at 4:59 pm
Cindy Schumerth
Thanks for this article. Make you think about stepping out of the comfort box and trying what is really something you’d just love to do.
November 3, 2013 at 5:00 pm
Jennifer Ali
What a wonderful bit of luck, and hard work to back it up! After reading this post I looked for classes at the NJ Printmaking Council. Thanks!
November 3, 2013 at 5:19 pm
Karen Mae Zoccoli
What a great story, Greg, and inspiration in reminding us that sometimes its better to focus on doing what we love, and not so much the expectation of it. The results can be amazing, as you have shown us. Thanks so much!
November 3, 2013 at 5:20 pm
Penny
Wonderful to see how pressure, and the determination to do what you love, provided so many opportunities!
Makes the cramming of PiBoIdMo into an already full schedule seems not so ludicrous! 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 5:26 pm
Kelly Ramsdell Fineman
This post made my day. So inspiring and uplifting!
November 3, 2013 at 5:27 pm
Jill Siegel
Lovely. All the best with your new books!
November 3, 2013 at 5:29 pm
melaniebellsworth3
I loved reading this post, Greg. I’ve often found that a writing prompt I wouldn’t normally work with constricts me and therefore gives me a different structure to work within, and that can help me think outside my own box. I like the reminder to do work you love, and maybe that is exactly what makes it interesting and fresh in the publishing world.
November 3, 2013 at 5:32 pm
Lisa Thompson
Such an encouraging post! Thank you.
November 3, 2013 at 5:36 pm
Shanda McCloskey
I love stories like this! Make what you’re made to make, and good can come of it 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 5:36 pm
Amy Smith
Love this Greg. Thank you, and congratulations!
November 3, 2013 at 5:38 pm
Alan Stacy
Thanks for the interesting view of your working method. Haven’t seen screenprinting since my college days. Wondering about your screen print book: how long did it take you to do “X” number of copies?
November 3, 2013 at 5:39 pm
Jennifer Young (@ItsJennyYoung)
I like your thoughts on the work based on what you think publishers might like verses “work that you feel driven to do.” I sometimes struggle with that. Congratulations Greg!
November 3, 2013 at 5:42 pm
Clare welsh
How funny, I’ve had a smilar experience where I was forced to finish a project because of time. I wasn’t that happy with it And its turned out to be my best yet. Thank you for the advice
November 3, 2013 at 5:49 pm
lindamartinandersen
Greg, I loved the story of how your art took off.
November 3, 2013 at 5:59 pm
tinamcho
Great success story, Greg! Thanks for sharing! And congratulations on all these new contracts!
November 3, 2013 at 6:01 pm
kpbock
Congrats on your book deal – that is wonderful! I am someone who hates time constraints but really needs them. Otherwise I will just procrastinate and never get anything done.
November 3, 2013 at 6:06 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
Inspiring! Thanks, Greg, and wish you continued success.
November 3, 2013 at 6:12 pm
Gaye Kick
I enjoyed reading your story, even though I have no idea what a zine is. I’ll have to google it. I appreciated your insight.
November 3, 2013 at 6:18 pm
Lisa Kahn Schnell
I know this–yay for frustrating limitations! break out of the usual! make time for the things you really love–but it’s so easy to forget and so great to be reminded. Thanks for the terrific story.
November 3, 2013 at 6:20 pm
Alicia van Thiel
Thanks for sharing your story…”researching, writing, and drawing” love the combination and your advice ” Doing the work that you feel driven to do”!
November 3, 2013 at 6:25 pm
Sophia Mallonée (@SophiaMallonee)
I love this! I’m a huge offset printing fan, but would never have thought to combine it with picture books. This is so great! Thanks for inspiring us all to hold on to what what love and to think outside of the box!
November 3, 2013 at 6:28 pm
Rob McClurkan
I really enjoyed the post. A great reminder to push through to the other side. You never know what’s waiting.
November 3, 2013 at 6:33 pm
Rob McClurkan
Great post and great advice on keeping it simple.
November 3, 2013 at 6:46 pm
Rosie Taylor
Thanks, Greg, for reminding me to do the work that I feel driven to do. I am so pleased that it paid off so beautifully for you! Congrats!
November 3, 2013 at 6:51 pm
Alison Hertz
What a great post. I love that you did what you wanted to do just for you and it sold to a publisher. A change in direction because of other life complications can send you down the a different but fantastic adventure. I look forward to seeing your new books.
November 3, 2013 at 6:58 pm
Ashley Bankhead
What a great post. Very insightful and helpful.
November 3, 2013 at 7:01 pm
Deb Dudley
Love the idea of having those custom cards! Count me in! 🙂
November 3, 2013 at 7:11 pm
Michele Norman
Greg –
I love the simplicity and clean lines of the images you shared. Looking forward to the book and to putting your advice to work!
November 3, 2013 at 7:25 pm
Elizabeth McBride
Greg ~ thank you for your encouraging post! It comes at a time when I am wondering if I am giving anything enough of my attention, or if I am just keeping all the different balls in the air. I have some unusual projects I want to do – just for fun. Maybe that is where the success lies. Thank you,
Elizabeth McBride
Grand Ledge, MI
November 3, 2013 at 7:44 pm
Andrea Allen
Greg: Congratulations on your surprise success! Also, what great advise – not to think about what publishers might want, but to create for the love of creating.
November 3, 2013 at 7:44 pm
Sherry Hudson
Great story about your zine book into picture book. That’s what we all dream of. So congrats, and thanks for sharing and encouraging all of us to not limit ourselves and possibly miss an opportunity.
November 3, 2013 at 7:50 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
Such an inspiring story! “Doing the work that you feel driven to do (as opposed to guessing what publishers will want)”. . . Yes! it is so hard not to look at or listen to information on the latest styles or trends. Thanks for the reminder to pursue my own passion.
November 3, 2013 at 8:01 pm
Marty McCormick
Can’t imagine getting that much done in that little time. You must not need sleep?! Our best work is always what’s closest to our hearts. Sounds like you broke through to a whole new level of creativity. Congrats, and thanks for the tips!
November 3, 2013 at 8:03 pm
Angie Jones
I have a weak spot for printmaking. Love seeing it included in a process tat is more and more going digial (not that I don’t love that too, it’s just different.) Tanks for sharing Greg! Love your work.
November 3, 2013 at 8:07 pm
Rick Starkey
I think some people work great with limitations. Thanks for the post.
I used to hand screenprint shirts on a six color manual printer.
I did have to think a moment about the hand screenprinted blank cards.
November 3, 2013 at 8:09 pm
Katie
Thank you for sharing. It seems the busiest people are the
ones who get things done.
November 3, 2013 at 8:09 pm
kelmcdonald
its great to read stories like this! it keeps you inspired…and hopeful.
thank you
Kelly Artist (mcdonald)
November 3, 2013 at 8:11 pm
shiela fuller
Love the cover of, “Watermelon Seed.” Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
November 3, 2013 at 8:17 pm
Stacy s Jensen
I’m pushed today for time … So I’m glad I took the time to read this
November 3, 2013 at 8:25 pm
dzipeto
Thank you for encouraging us to keep listening to our inner voice and embrace our constraints. Both can be tricky but almost always rewarding.
Diana
November 3, 2013 at 8:32 pm
Linda
Okay, I’m intrigued! I want to see more! And thank you for the message of limitations. I have many, and will challenge them to send me down a path.
November 3, 2013 at 8:43 pm
jheitman22
Thank you so much for this inspiration! A fellow writer friend and I having a saying: “you never know” and this proves it. Congratulations!
November 3, 2013 at 8:53 pm
julie rowan zoch
Thanks for an amazing post, Greg. It’s really important to remember what limitations can give us, and what expe tations take away! I hope you share this story with younger crowds too!
November 3, 2013 at 9:00 pm
Dawn Young
Love how you tapped into your inner spirit. So inspirational! Thanks for sharing.
November 3, 2013 at 9:03 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
Sometimes the world works in mysterious ways… Kinda nice to be reminded to look out for those times. Thanks.
November 3, 2013 at 9:05 pm
laurimeyers
What a great story of stretching yourself a little thin for the love of a book!
November 3, 2013 at 9:15 pm
SevenAcreSky
Greg, an encouraging post! Thanks.
Limitations are the screens, the sieves that our passions push creativity through. The best colors and images come out the other side. – Damon Dean
November 3, 2013 at 9:26 pm
S.H. Sherlock
This is an inspiring story! Just this week I was able to experiment with screen-printing for the first time, and it’s such an interesting mode of creativity.
November 3, 2013 at 9:27 pm
ptnozell
The busy get busier-now I know why I’m “in” for PiBoIdMo!
November 3, 2013 at 9:51 pm
amomnextdoor
Sometimes I think when we make art for “just for ourselves,” we end up creating our most universal work. An acting teacher used to tell me, “Never go for the effect,” which is what we end up doing when we write for publishers, and I think this leads to inferior work. And yet, creating books is also a collaborative process…it’s a tricky line to walk. But I appreciate your story about creating to please your own heart.
November 3, 2013 at 9:53 pm
Lisa
Thanks so much for your post, Greg! It was really encouraging to see that a pet project can potentially lead to a job when you pour your heart into the work. Thanks again!
November 3, 2013 at 10:02 pm
Heather Hatch
Reminds me of this:
“My freedom will be so much the greater and more meaningful the more narrowly I limit my field of action and the more I surround myself with obstacles. Whatever diminishes constraint diminishes strength. The more constraints one imposes, the more one frees one’s self of the chains that shackle the spirit.”
Igor Stravinsky, Poetics of Music
November 3, 2013 at 10:13 pm
Donna L Martin
Hi Greg!
I’m so glad you didn’t give up on your dream…your illustrations are lovely and I wish you much success.
Great post!
Donna L Martin
November 3, 2013 at 10:16 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Great story! Love The Watermelon Seed! Can’t wait to read more from you! Love your style.
November 3, 2013 at 10:23 pm
Jen Sheckels
Inspiring story – thanks for sharing it!
November 3, 2013 at 10:25 pm
Lois Sepahban
Thank you, Greg, for a great post!
November 3, 2013 at 10:56 pm
Sandie Sing
Loved your story. I admire the simplicity in your art work. Can’t wait to see more of your work!
November 3, 2013 at 11:01 pm
Jenn DesAutels
Wonderful story about creating opportunities for yourself and encouragement to follow one’s bliss. Thank you!
November 3, 2013 at 11:06 pm
kjbateman
It’s interesting to see the difference in the illustration styles and colr palettes between Tricky Vic and The Watermelon Seed
November 3, 2013 at 11:35 pm
Leslee Anne Hewson
The screen printing looks fun. thanks for your inspiration, it’s always good to hear a success story.
November 3, 2013 at 11:47 pm
Meridth Gimbel
Very inspiring! Thanks for the post. I love your work.
November 4, 2013 at 12:03 am
Debbie Lawlor
This is such an inspiring story to be included in the PuBoIdMo collection, proving that time boundaries around creativity can create heightened opportunities.
November 4, 2013 at 12:06 am
Meena
That’s great advice! Thank you.
November 4, 2013 at 12:25 am
Jen Carroll
Thanks for the reminder to stay focused on the pieces that matter most to me!
November 4, 2013 at 12:38 am
artsyandi
Great inspiration for those of us with tight schedules. Important to allow ourselves the time to experiment… Thanks for the reminder!
November 4, 2013 at 1:16 am
Sheryl Murray
Your timely story of perseverance was just the thing I needed to read tonight. Thanks for sharing.
November 4, 2013 at 1:19 am
Dana Atnip
Thank you for sharing with us that following our passions (even if it seems that we have no time) can lead to wonderful new ventures!
November 4, 2013 at 1:37 am
dee win
congratulations! now i want to make a zine too!
November 4, 2013 at 1:40 am
blanchebaxter
Congratulations Greg! A great post and a good reminder to make time for the things that are really important!
November 4, 2013 at 2:48 am
garyfabbri
Hej Greg! Thanks for the inspiration. I love the idea of trying to make it all work and working within your limitations – as well as following your inner light. Thanks
November 4, 2013 at 3:08 am
Mary Rose
It is always great to be reminded that good things come when you pursue what you want to do, instead of molding to the expected. Thanks!
November 4, 2013 at 3:10 am
Brigid G
I love this simple reminder that limitations can catapult creative work to unexpected places!
November 4, 2013 at 5:43 am
Dani Duck
Wow great article! Wish I had read this sooner. Oh well. Giving up drinking (ad much) coffee. I can dig that!
November 4, 2013 at 6:02 am
Laurie L. Young
A great lesson — you never know what can happen. Thanks!
November 4, 2013 at 6:07 am
Amy Quinn
Boy, those cards are stunning and so creative. I love them!
November 4, 2013 at 6:50 am
Janet Smart
This shows you that you never know what a publisher will want. Wat you think is so-so, a publisher might fall in love with.
November 4, 2013 at 7:15 am
thiskidreviewsbooks
Cool! Very interesting process!
November 4, 2013 at 7:37 am
Val McCammon
An important reminder that we can’t get too busy to do what matters to us, and in those times of pressure, an idea can form and build.
November 4, 2013 at 7:53 am
Micki Ginsberg
Greg, that was inspirational! I, too, want to part with the clutter and the “shoulds” and give myself that kind of creative freedom. Thanks!
November 4, 2013 at 8:34 am
erin
Congratulations, Greg! And what a great story. Opportunities don’t always come in perfectly timed packages, and this is a great reminder of that. Thanks for the inspiration!
November 4, 2013 at 8:38 am
Gail Kamer
Serendipity!!!
November 4, 2013 at 8:39 am
Bev Baird
Great post – inspiration to do the unexpected and what we want as opposed to what may be expected.
November 4, 2013 at 8:39 am
Susan Latta
Very uplifting story, Greg! Just goes to show how trusting your gut often leads to good things.
November 4, 2013 at 8:49 am
Jennifer Voigt Kaplan
I remember Eileen Spinelli once said at a conference, “If you really want it, you’ll find a way to make it happen.” (paraphrasing). It was in the context of having work, family and a million other commitments. So inspiring!
November 4, 2013 at 9:18 am
Elise Hylden
I’m so glad you made time for this labor of love, Greg. Soon children all over will be glad too. Congratulations on your success!
November 4, 2013 at 9:32 am
Annie Silvestro
Great story, great message- thanks for sharing, Greg! Congrats!!
November 4, 2013 at 9:33 am
Daniela Weil (@Daniela_Weil)
your post really spoke to me, as i’ve been taking a watercolor class that i feel is biting into my writing/illustrating time, and often think of dropping it, though it is the only place where im actually experimenting with my art. thank you for the interesting perspective.
November 4, 2013 at 9:48 am
Monette Pangan
Offset printing’s intrigued me and learning it is on my to do list. Love your art and yes, creating just for ourselves is totally freeing! =) Happy for you!
November 4, 2013 at 10:03 am
RadSheri
Your post made me want to try to draw a few sketches for my pbs but not being a trained artist, I will probably just consider doing some or sketch on napkins and call it good. I am a pb writer.
November 4, 2013 at 10:23 am
Wafa
I won his PB book last year at the June conference its so funny and cute
November 4, 2013 at 10:26 am
Jessie Miller (@pigknit)
Eep! What an exciting prize! Great read, and congrats!
November 4, 2013 at 10:39 am
klmcmorranmaus
Congratulations on your book. Thank you for sharing.
November 4, 2013 at 10:44 am
Jessica Drury
I always feel like I have no time to create with two very small children at home. I’m still learning how to carve out time for my writing but it’s great to hear success stories from others who also have no time. Thanks!
November 4, 2013 at 10:47 am
Eileen
Freedom. Love it. Thanks for sharing.
November 4, 2013 at 10:47 am
jdrury002
I always feel like I have no time to create with two very small children at home. I am still learning how to carve out time for my writing but it’s great to hear success stories from others who also have no time. Thanks!
November 4, 2013 at 10:50 am
Keri Collins Lewis
I’m curious to see how your book turns out — I was reminded of Jeeves and scenes from The Thomas Crown Affair!
November 4, 2013 at 11:13 am
Alicia Schwab
Glad you talked about how to fit your dreams into everyday obligations!
November 4, 2013 at 11:21 am
MummyTheFunny (@EmiHowe)
Thanks Greg, I’m going to keep going with my ‘scrap illustrations’. I like them =)
November 4, 2013 at 11:25 am
Jenn Bower
Absolutely the best two bits of advice. Dan Yaccarion and Patti Ann Lewis said the same thing in the SCBWI-Carolinas fall conference and it is amazing how giving yourself permission to create what you love pours so much energy and love back into the work.
November 4, 2013 at 11:31 am
Jennifer Neher
How inspirational! I think it’s great that you created something so true to yourself and your artistic vision, and I am glad that great things are happening for you because you did. Thank you for sharing!
November 4, 2013 at 11:39 am
creationsbymit
GREAT story, & excellent advice! Love how this worked out for you!
-Michele Katz/Creations By Mit
November 4, 2013 at 12:34 pm
LeslieG
Wonderful reminder about writing with heart, and how much we tend to underestimate what we’re capable of. Thanks!
November 4, 2013 at 1:07 pm
Kathy Cornell Berman
You lived up to your dream with obstacles and all!! Thanks for sharing and inspiring me to work harder! Congratulations!!
November 4, 2013 at 1:24 pm
maya elson
This story is the perfect reminder that you don’t need all the time in the world to accomplish something great. In fact, often limited time is better when it comes to creativity. Thanks for sharing!
November 4, 2013 at 1:47 pm
Kerry
Thanks for the encouragement as I am considering doing a course but worried about the time commitment since it will be during the holidays!
November 4, 2013 at 1:55 pm
Juliet Clare Bell
Congratulations! And what an exciting way to work. Really good luck. I’ve also found that when I’m busy and have to limit my writing time (as I did when the children were very little), I’m often more productive.Clare.
November 4, 2013 at 2:55 pm
hollygatrell
I love your book work and it was good to hear your varied styles helped you get more work, well done!
November 4, 2013 at 3:14 pm
Shannon Anderson
Congrats Greg! I find myself fighting the balancing act more and more! Thanks for reminding us it is worth it!
November 4, 2013 at 4:07 pm
mlucero30
A great reminder that limitations on time can sometimes be a good thing!
November 4, 2013 at 4:17 pm
Robert Starling
I enjoyed reading this! I had a similar feeling when I joined up – it’s a busy busy time right now for me but I thought I should do it anyway, and I’ve been surprised at what I’ve got done already! Also I like the idea of pursuing some of my ideas just because I want to, rather than to fit a market. Thanks for sharing your story.
November 4, 2013 at 4:59 pm
Cathy C. Hall
Love your points–amazing what we accomplish when we’re free of all those “do’s” and “don’ts”!
November 4, 2013 at 5:14 pm
Carole Stedronsky
I love your story. Especially because I’m planning on making a picture book that I know no one will publish…..
November 4, 2013 at 5:20 pm
Anita
Love the story!
November 4, 2013 at 5:45 pm
Julie Grasso
Absolutely loved this post and the art work looks very cool. Glad it will be unleashed upon the world soon.
November 4, 2013 at 6:57 pm
Dave Gray
Been doing some lino lately but really want to get into screen printing!
November 4, 2013 at 7:47 pm
Tonya
Tricky Vic sounds interesting. I plan to look out for it when I am at bookstores.
November 4, 2013 at 8:26 pm
Melissa Tison
After reading your post, I’d quite like to read your zone 🙂
November 4, 2013 at 9:06 pm
VS Bryant
I understand the deadline creative process, unfortunately I am a big procrastinator and sometimes its goods and sometimes it can be really bad. But I all the parts that makes me creative.
November 4, 2013 at 9:13 pm
ldrewes001
I love how your secret passion took you where you wanted to be…perfect energy!
November 4, 2013 at 9:38 pm
MSackman
I think enrolling in a class that pushes us, in one way or another, is a great way to expand ourselves. This story is a perfect example. Sounds like your timing was good as well!!
November 4, 2013 at 9:38 pm
robinghoward
Thanks for sharing your inspiration with all of us!
November 4, 2013 at 10:13 pm
Brenda Harris
Oooh, I so would love to win this, as I love his artwork. Cards? I’d frame them! 🙂
November 4, 2013 at 10:48 pm
Laura Renauld
I love the message that we can do what we love and it will be rewarded.
November 5, 2013 at 12:43 am
Margaret Greanias
Thanks for sharing your story. Congratulations on your two-book deal!
November 5, 2013 at 8:02 am
ammwrite
I am in awe of your talent. Thanks for your generous post–I learned a lot! Ann Magee
November 5, 2013 at 8:56 am
Michelle Lynn Senters
Love your post. If it is not for the joy of creating, we should take our endeavors elsewhere.
November 5, 2013 at 9:14 am
Dorina Lazo Gilmore
I love this advice to push past our usual limitations to try out something risky and fresh. I recently wrote a story for a project put together by the Peace Corps in Ethiopia. The assignment pushed me (and several other writers) to be culturally relevant and to explore a new place is never written about before. The Peace Corps has decided to have these stories illustrated & published for use by teachers. I’m so excited to see where it all goes! Congrats on your book deals!
November 5, 2013 at 9:25 am
gregpizzoli
Wow! 300 comments! You guys have quite a community of support. Glad to hear the post was helpful and inspiring for some.
Good luck and have fun.
GP
November 5, 2013 at 9:37 am
Kelly Parker
I love this. Sometimes it’s hard to just let go and do what you love instead of trying to live up to what others expect. Do the unexpected!
November 5, 2013 at 10:18 am
Sally Matheny
Great post, Greg. It inspires me. Congratulations on both books!
November 5, 2013 at 10:21 am
Annette Simon
Loved The Watermelon Seed. Loved this post.
November 5, 2013 at 11:44 am
Debbie Austin
Wow! The book making process fascinates me. Thanks for sharing your story about it. Off to check out The Watermelon Seed.
November 5, 2013 at 11:45 am
bleedraper
This is very inspirational – great to bookmark & re-read on those blah days. Cheers. 🙂
November 5, 2013 at 12:11 pm
Ashley
I’ve always found that my best work happens when I’m under a lot of pressure, whether it’s deadlines or just too many things on my plate. It’s nice to see that out of that pressure diamonds can be made. Thanks for this great post, Greg!
November 5, 2013 at 12:28 pm
Jill Tadros
Great inspiration! Love the reminder to work with what you have and to explore the possibilities within your limits!
November 5, 2013 at 12:51 pm
Sheri Dillard
Wonderful post! Thanks for sharing your story!
November 5, 2013 at 2:08 pm
Shannon Abercrombie
What a cool story. Looks like following a passion project has its rewards!
November 5, 2013 at 2:25 pm
Quinn Cole
Great wisdom that bears repeating. Stop worrying about the market and have the courage to do a project you have been thinking about for a long time. It certainly paid off for you. Congrats!
November 5, 2013 at 6:15 pm
Linda E.H.
Great story. Congrats!
We tend to not push our own limits. We often need that outside force to get us there.
November 5, 2013 at 8:36 pm
Amy Cohas
Thank you for the advice and inspiration. My limitation is that as a mother of three, I don’t have the time that I once did to finesse my illustations. I am pushing myself to develop a quicker, more direct style. Taking it one piece at a time, but so far, so good.
November 5, 2013 at 8:58 pm
Sharon Wildey Calle
Thanks for the encouraging words!
November 5, 2013 at 11:56 pm
marciecolleen
Wonderful post! When you were free to do something only for you, it brought out new creativity that a publisher fell in love with. May we all stop limiting ourselves!
November 6, 2013 at 9:44 am
Vivienne Dacosta
Well done Greg! I would love to have a go at this.
November 6, 2013 at 9:50 am
Greg Matusic (@matusic)
Very inspiring, Greg. Guessing what publishers (and Art Directors, and portfolio reviewers, and, and and…) are looking for can kill creativity. Your post confirms that writing and drawing for yourself can indeed work.
November 6, 2013 at 10:10 am
Franziska Green
Great post. It’s so true that sometimes when we’re busiest and have no time that we do our best work!
November 6, 2013 at 1:33 pm
Donna J. Shepherd
Great story! Congrats on the two-book deal. That’s wonderful.
November 6, 2013 at 4:55 pm
Ashley Bohmer
Being true to ourselves is so vital in the work we do, thanks for the reminder! 🙂
November 6, 2013 at 5:19 pm
Ann Birnie
Ann Birnie – Sometimes I think limitations are more challenging and fun than carte blanche!
November 6, 2013 at 8:22 pm
Kaye Baillie
Thanks, Greg and I love the robot guy with the hat.
November 6, 2013 at 8:24 pm
joyacey
This does remind me of the old adage about, if you want something done, ask a busy person. You have skills!
November 7, 2013 at 1:55 am
Lacey Gunter
Excited to see the new books.
November 7, 2013 at 9:17 am
megmillerwrites
What a wonderful story! It’s a good reminder that having fun is key when we are trying make things kids will love…
November 7, 2013 at 5:11 pm
Lena Podesta
Great lesson and reminder to follow your instincts and do what you love!
November 8, 2013 at 9:35 am
littledbl
Congrats on your success and thanks for the reminder that sometimes simpler is better!
November 8, 2013 at 5:47 pm
Beth MacKinney
I loved your post, Greg. It reminded me of some quotes on creativity from one of Carla Sonheim’s books (which is one of my favorite art books):
“The fewer limitations the artist imposes on his work, the less chance he has for artistic success.” Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn
“The problem about art is not finding more freedom, it’s about finding obstacles.” Richard Rogers
“The more constraints one imposes, the more one frees oneself of the chains that shackle the spirit.” Igor Stravinsky
“Limit gives form to the limitless.” Pythagoras
: ) Thanks for your post.
November 9, 2013 at 12:26 am
vijik
Thank you for your timely advice
November 9, 2013 at 1:02 am
artsyandi
Congratulations! Look forward to seeing the books!
November 9, 2013 at 8:23 am
DaNeil Olson
I too find that some of my most creative work occurs when my life is the craziest.
November 9, 2013 at 6:23 pm
vinvogel
Very encouraging, Greg: we all feel like we’re constantly fighting against time. Limitations can bring us good surprises. Congrats on the new book deals!
November 9, 2013 at 8:30 pm
Meredith Pinkstone
SO creative – thanks!!
November 11, 2013 at 12:24 pm
One Happy Writer
Hi Greg! So great to see you again. We met at the SCBWI Conference in LA in 2011 (I was the participant from Aruba). We were sitting next to each other and I had the great honor to look at your portfolio and admire your art. Now we meet again, this time to PiBoIdMo 🙂 Thank you for sharing your talent and courage. Sunny regards & all the best!
November 11, 2013 at 3:47 pm
heather sisson
Its so true when people say stick to what drives you and what your passionate about. thanks so much for the advice and words of wisdom. :}
November 12, 2013 at 11:41 am
Angela Padron
What an amazing story – and I love your style! Great words of wisdom.
November 12, 2013 at 11:41 pm
caseyg
I loved this post! Thank you so much for the story of your work load last year Greg. It is inspiring.
Congrats!
November 14, 2013 at 4:52 pm
Mishka Jaeger
I love hearing stories like this! It reminds me that we are our best audiences and if we please ourselves, we usually please others.
Thanks!
Mishka
November 24, 2013 at 4:23 pm
Debbie Faith Mickelson
Congrats on your success and getting a chance to do what you wanted to do for awhile. Sometimes time constraints do make us much more productive.
November 24, 2013 at 7:35 pm
carolmunrojww
OH! Communication Arts! I haven’t seen that since my corporate marketing days. I used to browse through the issues to get ideas for my writing — or for images that would feed my creativity to come up with headline ideas for homeowners insurance ads. Ahh, you bring back memories. And make me wish I had the latest issue for PiBoIdMo Idea mining.
You’re so right about limitations leading to good things. I had to drastically cut word count on a favorite ms of mine so I could enter the Highlights annual contest. Didn’t win, but they bought the story for a future magazine issue. Thanks for reminding me to think differently, take chances, perhaps even impose my own limitations to see where it takes me.
March 10, 2015 at 10:36 am
Andria
Masterful advice from a master!
March 10, 2015 at 5:00 pm
Ramona
Such a great honest post about time limitations – they can work in your favour and stop you from getting hung up on the small stuff. Thanks Greg for sharing this with us. 🙂