The Tassys!

This year, I was selected as a finalist in the Illustrator's Portfolio category for the Tassy Walden Awards! The Tassy Awards for New Voices in Children's Literature are held by the Shoreline Arts Alliance and are judged by literary agents and children's book industry professionals.

I just got back from the ceremony, and I am still buzzing with joy! Everyone there was so awesome! The people who won and placed in Honorable Mention for writing read excerpts from their manuscripts, and I can't wait to see them in print so I can finish the stories! The winner for Illustrated Children's Book, Lynn Stephens Massey, also presented her beautiful book about the fascinating creatures that live along the Connecticut shoreline. Her book makes me want to learn more about horseshoe crabs! Marcela Staudenmeier won the Illustrator's Portfolio category, and not only is her art absolutely FANTASTIC (especially her collages!), she is one of the sweetest people I've ever met! :)

I've met Marcela before, as well as many of the other winners, presenters (Hi Doe Boyle and Deborah Freedman!), and attendees from the Tassy awards, at the SCBWI groups that I attend. They are such a wonderful group of people- nurturing, supportive and honest as they give great feedback to help everyone's art and writing grow. I love going to the meetings even when I don't have anything specific to show, I learn so much from everyone and they keep me excited and focused on making art through the month!


It was also really special because my mom and aunt were able to come along with me!

OK, so I'll quit gushing now! :) In conclusion: CONGRATULATIONS to the Winners, Honorable Mentions, and Finalists, and YAY FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS!