The relationship between an author and his illustrator is discussed.
By Audrey and Arielle "Apricot" Gervasi
Colin Meloy of The Decemberists and wife Carson Ellis, a reknowned graphic designer and illustrator discuss their children's novel Wildwood.
A slightly welcome break from the roar of the outdoor concerts here at Bumbershoot, we duck into a small theater to see this part book reading, part interview style discussion session.
Colin treated the audience to a reading from the book while slides of the illustrations were shown. To fans of the Decemberists it will come as no surprise that Meloy's prose is both vivid and compelling.
Ellis' illustrations convey fascinating imaginary creatures and settings.
Their discussion of the creative process reveals an unusually close collaboration between writer and illustrator. Meloy and Ellis have known each other for 14 years and have developed almost a creative symbiosis.
The couple have bounced ideas off each other sometimes with blunt criticism. For example, Meloy had originally dressed his coyote soldiers in medieval armor, which Ellis decided was "too Dungeons & Dragons."
So the soldiers ended up dressed in Napoleonic era soldier garb.
The setting of the book was inspired by Forest Park, the huge wilderness park in Portland, Oregon.
The main character, Prue, finds that crows have taken her baby brother Curtis, into the Impassable Wilderness, where she journeys to rescue him.
Meloy and Ellis discussed how both of their childhoods influenced the creation of the book, as Ellis is a self-professed "Narnia nerd" and Meloy admits that he repressed his childhood fantasy world until he began writing lyrics for The Decemberists.
A fascinating look into what promises to be a fascinating read for all ages.
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