Full Steam Ahead

What I did:
     - book proportion (1 hr)
     - pagination (3 hrs)
     - full scale illustrations (5 hrs)
     - postcard sketches (3 hrs)
     - postcard illustration & text (2 hrs)

What I encountered/discovered:
     When I started working full scale (17" x 8.5" two page spread), I realized that when open, the book seemed far too long. It would work best for panorama shots or pages with multiple scenes. Because most of my pictures are up close, they work best on a rectangular page. I researched popular book proportions, cut paper to scale, and folded them in half. I determined that my illustrations will fit much better on on a US Letter or Crown proportion, as they are more tall than wide. I have taken the time to scan in my current pagination in order to make them larger (aka. easier to see) I also cropped them to the new proportions.
     I bought large paper last week, so I have been working on full scale illustrations. It is taking me a while to get a feel for the style and paper. I am still struggling to find my style and mesh it with what works best for the tone and purpose of the book. I know that I should be almost done with my illustrations by now, but I really want to do this right. After the journalist assignment, I realize that I want the pictures to be beautiful and clever and really really perfect. I will be home alone for the whole mid-winter break. This means I have a quiet, empty house as my studio. 14 days and about 25 illustrations means if I focus on at least 2 illustrations a day, I will be in the clear. All my illustrations WILL BE DONE by the end of break.
     For my postcard I really wanted to show a glimpse of the magic of x-ray view. In order to increase visual impact, I will be juxtaposing the two worlds... either through the frame of the glasses or through a gradient. I am working on a couple versions. So far, I really like being able to see through the glasses and still see the "real world". I am working on incorporating a similar view in my book.
     I am also working on incorporating more visuals of her arm healing. After speaking with Stephanie, I realize my ending is extremely abrupt and we really have little basis to realize her healing. We also talked about prolonging Kay's explorations. It currently seems very quick, like it takes place in a matter of hours. Instead of immediately explaining her path, I will make the audience wait, and let the adventure unravel by itself.

What's next:
     I will have my postcard done by Saturday. Story-line finalized by Tuesday. Each scene laid out by Thursday and Illustrations done by March 6.