I
have four new books that are teetering on the verge of publication under my
small press, Dark Moon Books,
and each is fortunate enough to be graced by amazing interior artwork.
I
love interior illustrations twofold: The visual elements are not only appealing
on their own merit, but that they also add another layer to the stories they
depict, providing a relatable and synergetic graphic.
I
spend a lot of time to find the right person for this, reviewing websites,
portfolios, and reviews of artists, as finding someone “fitting” is not easy.
Just like writing, artists have their own styles, their own voices. There are
so many great artists out there, but sometimes they’re out of my price range,
or their personalities are not a match to my own, or they just don’t follow
through with commitments, or any number of other variables.
But
the following are some wonderful collaborators I’ve been working with of late, along
with a shout-out of immense THANK YOU to each of them and links to their amazing
work.
###
Michelle
Prebich at: www.batinyourbelfry.etsy.com
Michelle
is illustrating not just one book, but a series of books: EXPLORING DARK SHORT
FICTION: A PRIMER SERIES (vol 1: Steve Rasnic Tem; vol. 2: Kaaron Warren; vol.
3: Nisi Shawl; vol. 4: Jeffrey Ford), with a very fun, whimsical, and dark
style, Tim Burton-ess of etching!
One
of my favorite examples of her work: https://www.instagram.com/p/BLzcxENgib2/?taken-by=batinyourbelfry
###
Steve
Lines at: www.rainfallsite.com
Steve
is illustrating my anthology, A WORLD OF HORROR, even while working through a
broken arm!! His style incorporates much vintage stipple illustration (dotting
for depth), which amazes me with complexity, yet he seemingly creates the work
with ease and panache.
One
of my favorite examples of his work: http://www.rainfallsite.com/Haunted_9_001.jpg
###
Greg
Chapman at: https://darkartiste.wordpress.com
Greg
is also illustrating a Series (a trilogy): THE CRIME FILES OF KATY GREEN by
Gene O’Neill, following my requests to create partials of pulp detective comic
strips, which are loud, exciting, and “mini-vignettes.”
One
of my favorite examples of his work: https://darkartiste.files.wordpress.com/2015/05/10382979_10205715974209008_6940475485581407408_n.jpg
###
Nils
Bross at: https://muninsheim.deviantart.com
Nils
finished illustrating my anthology THE FIVE SENSES OF HORROR last year. He has
a rich vision of Gothic sensibility, combining gorgeous folk art with intricate
designs and detailed artwork in mixed media.
One
of my favorite examples of his work: https://muninsheim.deviantart.com/art/Sherlock-Holmes-The-Hound-of-the-Baskervilles-480270430
###
I
recommend each of the above for their amazing craft and ease of working with. And
if all the stars should align, I’ll have all new books published within the
next few months showcasing each of these grand artists and their exemplary work!
