Comparing Illustrators: Christian Robinson and Julie Flett

As soon as I read the description of this assignment, I knew right away that I wanted to use Christian Robinson and Julie Flett as my illustrators to analyze. I have recently become enamored of their respective styles. They are so different, yet there are distinct commonalities between their artistic styles. I started my research by requesting all of the materials by the two illustrators from my local libraries (Yolo County Library and Sacramento Public Library). Because Julie Flett is somewhat less prolific, I also ordered a few of her titles through InterLibrary Loan. I read through the brief bio information on the back flap of each title where available, and read through the About section on their professional websites. I then did a video search for each illustrator to find interviews and self-created content through another medium. After a cursory read through of each title, I then reread them, this time paying specific attention to the way the illustrations complemented the text. After choosing a title from each that most represented their artistic style, I reviewed them yet again and compared and contrasted their styles.

I worried that I would not be able to find enough background information, as they are both newer illustrators. However, since they are both illustrators in the digital age, I was able to find plenty of information, as well as interviews full of exactly the types of responses I needed. I considered contacting the illustrators directly, but since I was able to find the information I needed, I felt that it would be redundant to ask them the same interview questions again.

I was also worried that such an in-depth critique of these illustrators for this assignment would dull my love of their work, but I was mistaken. If possible, I am even more appreciative of their artistic styles! One thing that has become predominantly clear is that we are all shaped by our cultures and past experiences. Our backgrounds affect the choices we make and the way that we see and interact with the world. Both Christian Robinson and Julie Flett come from very diverse backgrounds, and I respect them for their amazing efforts toward diversity in children’s literature.