Artist Interview: Cindy Wider

 

We talked to Cindy Wider, a celebrated Australian artist and author, about her exciting new children's book. Known for her dedication to fostering creativity, Cindy is now sharing her artistic vision with young readers through an enchanting tale filled with whimsical characters and colourful illustrations. Cindy shares her inspiration, creative process, and why she loves Saunders Waterford®. 

Cindy, tell us about your art practice and your journey to get to where you are now.

I was born in Brisbane Australia and grew up on the island of Papua New Guinea. I’ve been a full-time artist, illustrator, author and online drawing mentor for over 32 years (since the age of 23.) I’m the founder of DrawPj.com and Cindy’s Drawing Club where I present my ‘learn-to-draw and colour’ videos, books and mentoring online. 

I teach mostly retired women around my age; 55 and over, from a selection of 7 different mediums and 5 art styles (depending on their own unique areas of gifting, interests and needs.) Just over 7 years ago I began to transition from the world of fine art (where I was award-winning and gallery-represented) into the wonderful world of children’s picture book writing and illustrating. It’s been a huge transition and nothing at all like I first expected. I surrounded myself with some amazing experts in the industry who have helped me along the way. My first children’s book has just been published!

What was the inspiration for your children’s book? 

My husband and I, along with our two young daughters moved to England in 2013 to live nearer to his parents and family. It was so different to the endless blue skies, bright, tropical foliage and white sandy beaches of the great Australian beach lifestyle that had inspired my subject matter as a fine artist. At first, I struggled to make a connection to place in England.

After a short while, however, I soon became fascinated with the tiny details, textures and patterns like the rows of stone walls neatly dividing the hillsides. They looked just like giant patchwork quilts. Then there were the cute stone cottages with their snow-capped chimneys and warm glowing lights shining out from the windows. I was in awe of seeing real Holly and Ivy growing in the streets. I felt like I was stepping into a real-life children’s picture book that I’d read and enjoyed so much as a child.

Then, when we visited the Lake District, I experienced this deep nostalgic feeling of mystery and wonder. My imagination from my childhood suddenly awakened and came alive! I began thinking of all the little animals that might be living there and the exciting adventures they might go on. 

The very first characters I created were soft, fluffy little clothed anthropomorphic kittens. I always had a cat growing up, so it made sense to begin there. I called them the ‘Cuddleecats’. The rest is history. I was smitten by the world of children’s picture book illustration. 

Here I am today with my first Children’s book just published 7 years after leaving England. This book is the first in a series of Cuddleecats books that I intend will follow, and it’s titled ‘Mummy’s  Biggest, Best Birthday Surprise Ever!’ 

The setting of the book is an imaginary place called ‘Cuddleton Village.’ It’s a very special place deep in the English Woodlands. A place where no human has ever been. The stylisation is inspired by the golden age of illustration with a vintage feel and a touch of modern times sprinkled in.

Do you have any tips for other artists looking to be self-published?

I’ve published my own book because I had a very specific artistic vision that I wanted to accomplish. My biggest tip (if you choose to self-publish) is to be prepared to surround yourself with experienced professionals if possible. For example, you’ll need an editor, a book designer, a reliable and quality printing company. It’s a great idea to be a member of various organisations to support you with things such as learning resources, networking opportunities, community support, information on how to price your illustrations etc. I highly recommend SCBWI (the Society of Children’s Book Writes and Illustrators) and ASA (Australian Society of Authors), which is for illustrators as well. 

What is your go-to paper for illustration, and what qualities in paper are important for your work? 

My absolute favourite paper is Saunders Waterford Hot Pressed High White 425gsm (200lb). I have very carefully chosen this specific paper after many experimentations because I need a paper that is robust, reliable and smooth enough to allow a beautiful even spread of colour. My chosen paper also needs to have enough texture to hold several layers of colour; first inks and then once dried coloured pencil on top. My favourite thing about Saunders Waterford is that there are no surprises in the texture; I can rely on it to perform for me time and time again. 

Cindy Wider’s Cuddleecats book ‘Mummy’s Biggest, Best Birthday Surprise Ever!' is available for purchase on her website www.cindywider.com.

For more information about Cindy’s Classes and mentoring: 

drawpj.com

Links

www.youtube.com/@CindyWiderArtist 

www.instagram.com/cindywider

www.facebook.com/DrawPj

www.facebook.com/CindyWiderArtist

To learn about our Saunders Waterford range, visit our website.