Dear James: Letters to a Young Illustrator

by R.O. Blechman

RENOWNED ARTIST R. O. BLECHMAN'S illustrations are instantly recognizable. For more than fifty years, his work has appeared on the covers of The New Yorker , run alongside op-eds in The New York Times , graced the pages of Harper's Bazaar , and, more recently, been featured on The Huffington Post , providing unspoken commentary on the world at large. In Dear James , Blechman has compiled all the wisdom he has accumulated over the course of his esteemed career into a series of poignant yet instructive letters written to an imagined young illustrator, "James." The result is a wise and mesmerizing meditation on creativity. Flush with wit and candor, Blechman's correspondence delves into his own trash can of false starts and failed beginnings, in addition to his artistic triumphs, to offer James both encouragement and criticism. He urges him to reach his potential as an artist, advising him on practical aspects -- proper technique, choice of work environments, dealing with editors -- and along the way provides invaluable insights on art, and life, that lay bare the challenges James will face as he aims to be successful in this demanding field. In the tradition of Rilke's Letters to a Young Poet , Dear James is an indispensable tool for any up-and-coming creative person looking for advice and inspiration, as well as a memorable read for those daring enough to chase their dreams.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction

160 pages, Hardcover

First published September 21, 2009

Reviews

[Yuko Shimizu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gifted this book by a fellow illustrator friend. We'd both recommend this book for anyone who is starting out, or dreaming of becoming an illustrator, or any creative career as a freelancer.
The book is out of print, but you can always find a used copy on internet, just like my friend Jose Fragoso did to give it to me. It's worth your time looking for a copy.

[Paul J · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating expression of interest to illustrators everywhere. It's simultaneously letters written by an accomplished illustrator who still has his doubts and distractions, but offers keen insights into the world of professional visual art.

I found this book very encouraging on my path of professional illustratorship and a fun way to revisit the teachings of the old art vanguard.

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal book for any commercial artist, or creative really of any stripe. Sunshine and good advice with witty prose and elegant illustrations to boot. Highly re-readable.

[yasmin :) · Rating 5 out of 5]

really good firsthand advice in this! was taking notes throughout. would recommend it to all illustrators no matter the skill level

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! He described much of what I am going through while trying to illustrate a book. Best of all, he restores confidence because he has been through the same things and tells the reader what's normal and to hang in there. I read a library copy but I will add this book to my library to re-read as needed.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is sweet although a little outdated in its description of pre-computer illustration when illustrators could do folksy things like deliver work in person. However it has a lot of nice juicy quotes from artists and writers about the creative process and so I'm planning on keeping it around.

[Sweetpickles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the emotional and practical realities of being a freelance illustrator in New York...back in the day when illustrators and designers could afford real estate for their offices...and what beautiful and large offices some of them were!

[Kony · Rating 3 out of 5]

Swift, charming, and mildly inspiring. One-time bigshot illustrator imparts wisdom, bits of wit, and mentorly advice to a fictional aspiring artist. Smattered with gem-like quotes by hallowed authors/artists on passion and persistence. Worth skimming, dog-earing, and musing briefly upon.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming is the word for this book with lots of fantastic quotes and anecdotes about creativity. The type of book to curl up with (plus a cup of tea) on a cold, rainy afternoon.

[Jihad Lahham · Rating 4 out of 5]

very nice spin on correspondence books. the writer writes his young self letters to teach him some lessons from the future experienced self. great, light hearted, fun read.