Illustration Friday - "Memories"

©Kathleen Rietz
(sorry...having to recycle my artwork again this week)

This Little Piggy

I couldn't help myself. I haven't sketched anything lately that isn't related to the books I am illustrating. I sort of miss doing a sketch a day, like I did last winter. Last night I was thinking about babies and how soft and sweet their little bedclothes and toys are. And so I started wanting to do some doodles of plush baby toys and clothes. I think there is a part of my brain that also misses being a product developer/designer, which I have done for nearly 20 years. So I thought I would grab a moment and allow myself to doodle a little plush piggy. Just wanted to share.

Tuesday's Tidbits

Ok, here's a teaser for you. I cannot post the book cover I am working on...not yet anyway. But here is a tiny tiny section of it in progress. The book cover illo is almost 25" wide, so this really is just a peek. That's all I can dare show you, though. Once the book is showcased in a catalog in September, I should be able to reveal the entire cover.

Also, I would like to thank Ginger and Monica for bestowing this award upon me.

Everyone knows I love my Sunshine girl. Here we are working in our studio. Do you like Sunshine's summer haircut? I did it myself.
In turn, I will pass on the award to Diane, and her little beast Basha.

Okay, back to work!

Illustration Friday - "Routine"

©Kathleen Rietz
A morning routine is definitely more fun when you have the right person to share it with!

You can buy this image as a stamp, along with other fun items designed by me, right here at DewDrop Craftz! This European company is now also carrying the ribbons I designed for j.caroline creative. Do stop by and have a peek.

Want a fine art print of one of my illustrations? Check out my shop.

Illustration Friday - "Detach"

Shawna was detached from reality on weekends when she found solace in food and television.
(Sorry about the big "©" symbols on the illustration, but this illustration is one in an educational series I did for a publisher earlier this year and is copyright protected.)
I am working on illustrating 2 picture books now (yay!) and writing my 3rd article for the SCBWI-IL e-newsletter, so I haven't been blogging much nor visiting my favorite blogs like I would like to be able to do. I miss everyone! I promise I will post updates and artwork from the books as I am able.

Illustration Friday - "Sail"

©Kathleen Rietz
I had to recycle another past Illustration Friday piece... Hope everyone has a good week.
Update: A print of this illustration tited "Morning Visit" is available in my shop .

Fly Free, Little Hatchling!

Anyone who regularly visits my blog has figured out by now that I love nature's little wonders...


...which is perfect since the book I am currently illustrating for Soundprints is all about the life of a little black ant.


I can't show you any illustrations for the book yet...


...so I'll continue to post photos from my yard instead.

Gardening Pal

Today while I was pulling weeds I spotted this little guy keeping watch over my garden.

©Kathleen Rietz

That inspired me to add this fine art print "Symphony In The Pond" to my growing online shop. You can see all of my designs available by going to my website and clicking on my shop page.

©Kathleen Rietz

New Print Added to My Shop!

©Kathleen Rietz
"Dance Partners" 8"X10" with archival inks in matte finish

Prints Available!!!

©Kathleen Rietz
©Kathleen Rietz
Great News! 8"X10" prints are now available for "Sea Princess" and "Happy Halloween". All prints are signed and printed on 5 star archival quality matte paper with archival inks, shipped in a protective sleeve. For a limited time, they are available for $20 USD each. The price may likely increase as I decide on an online shop to sell them on in the future, but for now you may email me with inquiries and orders. More designs will be made available in the future, including my "Flower Girls" notecard series, and possibly some photos. Special requests will also be considred, so email me if you have any questions.

studies of a young boy & Goldilocks

©Kathleen Rietz©Kathleen Rietz
Samples for a possible new client©Kathleen Rietz

Illustration Friday - "Poof!"

©Kathleen Rietz
->POOF!<- Bugsy was ready for a big date with that special ladybug in his life, thanks to the help of his loyal friends!

With my current workload taking up all of my time, I thought I would pull out an oldie, which is one of my favorite illustrations actually. I have never missed so many weeks of Illustration Friday...it feels good to have something to post and share with you.

Update: Look! It's a photo of Bugsy's lady friend...

How It All Began

©Kathleen Rietz