Earlier in the year I had the pleasure of illustrating a wonderful book by Lenia Major, published by Albums Circonflexe, about a little bear called Caramel who, through getting lost a number of times, travels the world!
I really loved the story, especially because when I was young, I had lost my own childhood toy on an airplane and always hoped he had been found by someone who would look after him! I was also really excited to illustrate a picture book in another language.
I started with a rough sketch of Julie, Caramel's original owner, with her bear in tow.
Then, after all of my roughs were approved, started on the final paintings. I worked mostly by hand, cleaning things up and editing on photoshop afterwards.
Original painting of Caramel and Yumi in the Nagasaki gardens.
My studio wall a good way through the project...
More paintings on the wall..
And finally, a little peak inside the book!
You can order the book here