Since Mutt Ink’s conception, one of my main objectives was to find our way into the children’s book market. So I set out constructing elaborate materials and mock ups to market our concoctions and book sculptures, but to no avail.....till now. A few months ago, I was approached by Chris Watson from Scotland. He’s currently in the process of building a children’s book publishing house called Bartholomew Hat Publications and wanted Mutt Ink to illustrate and design their very first book.
Extremely honored by his request, I threw up a mental hi-five and got to work. First up, the concept dummy. This is definitely the most critical part of the entire process. The concept dummy is the the proverbial cake batter. No matter how fancy the icing, if your cake flops, you're left hungry. It’s where the pacing of the book is established and the general concept of each spread is conceived.
Next up, the DEADLINE.
When I first sat down and discussed the deadlines with Chris, I suggested 8-12 months to finish the book. Chris was hoping 4-6 months. After some negotiation and after seeing how complicated some of the illo’s we’re turning out, we decided to shoot for the 8 month deadline. This would allow the proper time needed to render out each spread and also allow Mutt Ink to bring other work on board to pay it’s bills and it’s one employee {me}.
Now, it’s funny how things work. Prior to Bartholomew, Mutt Ink was having a hard time finding pennies on the street. But in December 07, Mutt Ink was fortunate enough to land Scott Hull as it’s Rep and things have changed dramatically. I went from 1-2 job requests per month to 1-2 job requests per week, which is fantastic. A bit nerve wrecking, but fantastic. It’s the age old ”Feast or Famine” scenario. Believe me, I’m not complaining by any means....but I’m also not sleeping. With over 40 full spreads of illustration, my 8 month deadline doesn’t seem as distant.
Anywho, that’s the story so far.
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