On 12th October, SCBWI South Australia hosted their 2020 Professional Day online and were joined by members throughout Australia as well as internationally.
We were delighted to welcome Rosanna Arciuli and Nicola Evans of the Copyright Agency. Rosanna and Nicola shared a wealth of information about copyright, how the agency works and the significant benefits of membership (which is free). They introduced the many grants and fellowships available for Australian creators through the Copyright Agency’s Cultural Fund and provided tips on how to secure these wonderful opportunities.
Sarah Davis treated us to an insight into her process as an illustrator. We followed her remarkable journey from storyboarding a film for a friend in 2005 to becoming a multi-award winning illustrator of 40 picture books, educational books as well as Art Director at Walker Books. Sarah even gave us a sneak peek at the beautiful illustrations for her next picture book.
Young adult fiction author Poppy Nwosu shared her inspiring journey from a child who struggled with reading to a successful YA writer (and her many rejections along the way). Poppy’s story was a perfect example of how persistence, determination and passion can lead to success.
S.J. Morgan, Allayne Webster and Vikki Wakefield joined together with Poppy for a panel which discussed every question posed to them about writing YA.
Four fantastic Q and A sessions followed, featuring Susanne Gervay and Australian Children’s Laureate Ursula Dubosarsky in conversation. Full of energy and wit, these two champions of the children’s book industry shared their wisdom.
Jo Case of Wakefield Press and Zoe Walton from Penguin Random House were available for questions on all aspects of publishing. Kate Foster from Storm Literary Agency and Justine Barker from Mayfair Literary Agency provided an insight into publishing through an agent and the books they are looking to represent. And Sarah Davis, Art Director at Walker Books, fascinating insights into her role.
We finished the day with speed launches from four of our talented South Australian creators. We wish Robin Tatlow-Lord, Leah Russack, Mike Lucas and Mandy Foot all the best with their wonderful picture books.
It was an insightful and information-packed day. SCBWI SA would like to thank all the presenters and panel members who joined us.
For anyone who missed this fantastic event or would like to re-watch the highlights, a recording will be available soon.