MJ took 10 minutes to draw this. This is a second run at the cover for the Grobug Tales chapter book.
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What do you think of the results?
Look out for a 10 Minute Writing video next!
As an author and artist, I like to visualize key scenes and characters from my stories through concept art and sketches. This helps me solidify the imagery in my own mind and plan out the look and feel of my fictional worlds. I recently did some concept art for the cover of Grobugs Tales Book 6, which focuses on a group of heroic Grobugs.
The main idea was to showcase three of the key Grobugs along with their teacher/leader, who is showing the group a vision of the book’s villain – a sinister mist bird. I envisioned positioning the Grobugs in a circle with their teacher meditating in the center, connecting them all through this prophetic vision. This draws the eye to the foreboding enemy at the heart of the scene.
When designing covers for my middle grade books, I try to capture some of the core relationships and conflicts that drive the story. This Grobug Tales cover hints at the bonds between Grobugs. The looming villain also sets up the central tension.
Creating concept art is helpful for me as an author to clarify my imaginings and describe them visually before putting words to the page. It also allows me to plan out the composition and mood of the cover early on. I can then maintain consistency as I actually finalize the artwork later on. Let me know in the comments if you also like making concept art for your stories!
MJ Muñoz 