On Saturday 18th July the South Australian SCBWI community held their annual Winter Workshop at Tiwu Kumangka. It was a super day of professional learning, industry updates with lots of opportunities for networking and welcoming new members. We cannot thank our presenters enough for sharing their time and expertise.
The day began with a presentation from acclaimed picture book illustrator Danny Snell. Danny, who is also a member of the SCBWI SA committee, has illustrated an array of stunning picture books such as Truck Cat and Let’s Go Walking. Danny shared the creative path that led him to see himself as a picture book illustrator and how being part of a creative community has embedded his joy in the craft.
Laura Greaves was in Adelaide as a fellow of the May Gibbs Children’s Literature Trust and joined us to present a session. Laura is best known for her books about dogs and adult romances. While in Adelaide she is working on her first YA novel and it was fascinating to hear about her process, challenges and successes as a writer managing ADHD and other health conditions. Her insights and honesty resonated with everyone.
Author Claire Saxby joined us on Zoom from Victoria, where she spoke about her recent narrative non-fiction picture books. Claire told us that her books arise from her curiosity about the world, which leads her to research topics as diverse as the children and women who were held in Changi prison during World War II, to unusual animals that reside in the deep ocean. Claire finished her presentation by reading us her stunning new book, Through the Darkening Sea.
Our final speaker was MidnightSun Publisher, Anna Solding. Anna told us about her Adelaide based publishing house which publishes seven to ten books a year, including picture books, middle grade, YA and adult novels. She also provided us with useful tips for pitching to a publisher, readying us for SCBWI SA’s Pitch It Fest which will take place in October.
A common theme amongst all the presenters was the importance of finding joy in what we do, being open to the creative muse and having the flexibility and trust to take creative work in different directions.
Thank you to everyone who came along and made the day so enjoyable.
Charlie Archbold and Kristin Martin
