Let’s meet the “Right” People
(Illoguild question #35 How do you make industry connections?)
Hey there,
We’re diving into reflections from Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF) 2025 and the art of building genuine connections in the illustration world, including marketing and promotion. Networking doesn’t have to be about awkward small talk; it’s about fostering real relationships that inspire and support our creative journeys.
We’re also thrilled to share reflections about BCBF 2025 from ILLOGUILD member—
, who attended the Bologna Children’s Book Fair this year in April and had an opportunity to meet many people in the illustration industry in person. They offer valuable insights into the power of connecting with fellow creatives and industry professionals.Illustrator Spotlight: Brenda Harris
We’re excited to spotlight
, the talented illustrator and designer based in Colorado, USA. A second-generation Latina, Brenda’s work is deeply influenced by nature and storytelling.ILLOGUILD Talks: Marketing + Promotion
Join us on 20 May for a live Zoom session where we’ll explore the topic of Marketing + Promotion, specifically tailored for artists and children’s book illustrators. We’ll discuss strategies for authentic networking, maintaining relationships, and expanding your creative community.
Hope you have a wonderful month and connect with us live or in the comments.
Thank you for being part of this community!
You’re invited to the LIVE ZOOM (It’s free) - Replays available for Paid Subscribers.
Find out how Illoguild members are making connections…
talks about her experience in Bologna BCBF2025. It’s her 3rd time visiting- find out why she keeps going back…
talks about making connections through genuinely connecting with people in the industry inspired by the podcast and book ‘Supercommunicators’. shares the first draft of a wonderful picture book about making friends. takes us on a white water rafting adventure. Read about what she learned from the rapids.
And as an added BONUS - here are our previous newsletters about the Bologna Children’s Book Fair.
Illustrator Spotlight on
We’re excited to spotlight Brenda Harris, a talented illustrator and designer based in Colorado, USA. A second-generation Latina, Brenda’s work is deeply influenced by nature and storytelling. She delights in drawing intricate details and textures, working both digitally—with tools like ink pens, iPad, Procreate, and Adobe programs—and traditionally with paints, pastels, and colored pencils. Beyond her illustration work, Brenda is passionate about teaching and connecting with artists worldwide. Her clients include Elva Resa Publishing, Fort Collins Symphony, Garden of the Gods Visitor Center, and more.
You can see more of Brenda’s work on her website or instagram.
Announcements
Please connect with us at the next illoguild live session is on 20 May “ILLOGUILD TALKS: MARKETING + PROMOTION”. Sign up Here.
You can now purchase
book ‘Cecelia Takes Flight’ - written by Noreen Anne and Illustrated by Nithini Wathsala - at amazon or Barnes and Noble. Congratulations to Noreen on a beautiful and heartwarming book!!! It’s the second in the series.
Congrats to Carla Hoffenberg, whose book I AM ME, written by Mitch Tambo is available for pre-order.
Yaama! Singer and musician Mitch Tambo celebrates the diversity of First Nations culture in this delightful picture book about being true to yourself.
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Links to Illoguild Member Newsletters and Socials
Adam Ming: ‘Ten Minute Artist’ and Adam’s Instagram
Brenda Harris: ‘On The Creative Road’ and Brenda’s Instagram
Carla Hoffenberg: ‘Carla’s Crowd’ and Carla’s Instagram
Chantelle Holt: ‘Chantelle’s Studio’ and Chantelle’s Instagram
Damjana Loddelina: ‘Lemon Tart Bandit’ and Damjana’s Instagram
Jen Gubicza: ‘Rymes with Pizza’ and Jen’s Instagram
Jennifer Jamieson: ‘Jennifer’s Newsletter’ and Jen’s Instagram
Katie Stack: ‘Katie’s Newsletter’ and Katie’s Instagram
Kavita Rajput: ‘Kavita’s Corner’ and Kavita’s Instagram
Noreen Anne: ‘Creative Canvas by Noreen Anne’ and Noreen’s Instagram
Rose Lihou: ‘Studio Tea with Rose Lihou’ and Rose’s Instagram
Tammy Angelis: ‘Tabbykat Chats’ and Tammy’s Instagram
Ahhh this Zoom session sounds so exciting!! But I have a vet appointment for my dogs at that time... will there be a recording?