SIX MINUTES WITH CHRIS SHEBAN:
Today Chris Sheban joins LitPick for Six Minutes with an Illustrator! Chris is the illustrator of several picture books including The Lonely Book, A Night on the Range, Red Fox at Mccluskey’s Farm, and The Story of a Seagull and the Cat Who Taught Her to Fly. In addition, his work has appeared in PRINT magazine, Step-by-Step Graphics, and numerous Communication Arts Illustration Annuals. He’s been awarded three Gold and three Silver medals from the Society of Illustrators in New York.
How did you get started illustrating?
My early memories of math, science and history classes are not rosy ones. While I wasn't an awful student, my anxiety came down to acceptable levels when I got to art class. A high school guidance counselor suggested graphic design at a nearby college-Kent State…close enough to home to bring laundry back for my mom (sorry mom). I eventually focused on illustration, then stayed for another two years of graduate school, which afforded me a little extra time to improve my skills before heading into the field.
Who influenced you?
An older brother, who was an artist, was an early influence. A college instructor, Doug Unger, who was a painter and exquisite instrument maker, taught me a lot about craftsmanship and composition.
Do you have a favorite artist/subject/medium?
Lately, as far as a favorite artist, I'd say anyone that's not me. It seems I come across new artists daily whose work I think is great. There are boatloads of terrific illustrators. I was always a big fan of the painter Jan Vermeer.
I'm somewhat of a caveman when it comes to technique. Having been in college way back in the late 70's, I still work in a combination of watercolor, pencil and pastel (why do I have the feeling that I'm the oldest guy that's answered these six questions?!).
What advice do you have for someone who wants to be an illustrator?
Be a doctor or lawyer instead! No, that's a joke...I admire anyone who can do what they do. If you want to be an illustrator, be curious. Don't ever narrow your focus when it comes to paying attention to the outside world.
You bring all of those experiences to your art. Like most things, if you work hard at it, and you love what you do, you can be successful. And happy.
Where is your favorite place to work?
After spending a number of years in the basement next to the boiler and sump pump, I now work in a bright corner of my living room. When I'm making a mess, my wife threatens to send me back to the basement.
What else would you like to tell us?
I have a picture book coming out in the fall by Teresa Bateman called "Job Wanted", from Holiday House. I'm currently working on another book for Creative Editions, about what you can do with a box. I'm drawing on cardboard, so I've been driving around town looking for boxes in dumpsters. Much cheaper than buying watercolor paper.
Chris, thank you for joining LitPick for six minutes! We can’t wait to see your upcoming books! So, where did you want people to send their cardboard boxes for your use?