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I create stories that celebrate the imaginations of children and are inspired by nature, humor, heart, and the joys & challenges of childhood. 

 

My artwork includes a variety of traditional mediums including watercolor, colored pencil, acrylic, gouache, pen & ink, soft pastels, charcoal pencils, graphite, and crayons. My favorite tools are the closest pencil and a kneading eraser. 

 

I have a background in performing arts which brought me to NYC, where I received my professional dance training, and I also hold a B.A. in Dance from Hofstra University. For over 20 yrs., I performed across U.S. & Canada as a vocalist & dancer, and worked as a choreographer and dance instructor.

 

My passion and studies in art and writing emerged in high school and continued into college, but my kidlit journey began when I had my own children. I found that much of the work I had been creating for years fit into the format of picture books, so I started making stories.

 

I hope that my stories and art will enrich the lives of children, in the same way that so many books have shaped my children and myself. 

 

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me.

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Creatively,

Vanessa