Q&A with Amy Selstad
Amy is a children’s book author and freelance illustrator originally from Northern California. The endless potential for creating worlds of stories, whether real or imagined, is what sets her pencil in motion. She has produced a variety of work for clients, including picture books, storyboards, lyric videos, and animations. She often depicts whimsical or idyllic scenes of characters in nature. Her most recent work can be found in her picture book Shores of Gold: An Ode to Fife, Scotland (2024).
Describe your style.
My clients have described my style as vibrant, immersive, and whimsical. Since I often work on children’s books, I have tailored my work to suit a young audience. I try to make each illustration colorful and pull the viewer inside, where they can enjoy looking at details of the world. I want each of my pictures to add to the story as well, making it more enticing to read.
How do you make work?
I always begin a project by sketching concepts with a blue pencil in my sketchbook. Then, I scan my sketches into Procreate and refine any lines or transitions in value. I also blow up the scale of the picture to the size it will be printed. After the line drawing is complete, I test out different color schemes. At this point, I decide whether to continue the final painting in Procreate or with natural materials. Either way, I have a colored sketch to use as a guide. Then, I enter my favorite part of the process: rendering. I enjoy the time I can spend on detail. Then I place the final image into Photoshop to tweak any issues with light and color, then place it into InDesign to format the image for print or digital distribution.
How’s the MFA-IVC program going so far?
It is a dream to pursue what I love alongside other talented illustrators. The program is as rigorous as I expected, which isn’t a bad thing at all. I wanted to be challenged as an artist. Thanks to my professors, I continue producing work I never thought I could achieve. We are all encouraged to experiment with new materials to open up new possibilities in our creative practice. As someone whose comfort zone is in digital design, I am currently learning to combine watercolor, collage, and ink. I often learn from my peers who are more versed in analog media.
What was your path to this program like?
My path to this program was full of twists and turns! In 2022, I first thought of seriously applying to grad school while working full-time as a graphic designer. I researched MFA programs that my favorite illustrators attended and what kind of curriculum would suit my interests. During my application process, I found the admin and faculty at WashU to be the most supportive. I received valuable portfolio feedback and advice on pursuing illustration from video calls with the Sam Fox faculty. I was especially impressed by the student/faculty work, which confirmed that I was on the right track. Not only that, but I found the MFA-IVC program checked all my boxes. I could grow my professional creative practice, develop an authorial voice, prepare for teaching, curation, and work in new facilities. What more could I ask for?