Sunday, October 18, 2015

Passing on an Opportunity

Many of my readers have suggested that I should create a "colouring" book with the doodles that I draw......well......back in April, I was contacted by a publishing company with an interest in doing just that............ I was SO incredibly excited! 

After several months of discussions, proposals, and sample drawings, I was indeed offered a contract.

Unfortunately, in the end, I really did not feel that the project was quite right for me and decided to turn it down......believe me when I say, it was a tough, VERY tough decision.

There were many deciding factors, but partly I suppose, it was that my drawings were not really looking like "my" drawings anymore. I can explain it better visually with the example drawings below

This 1st one is okay.....but not all that interesting


The 2nd one is likely how the drawing might look when prepared for use in a colouring book, definitely more detail.....a little more interesting....but... still not quite "me"

This last one definitely feels more my style, I like to add a little drama by playing with positive and negative, but all those filled in areas, all that black, would make it unsuitable for a colouring book.
In order for me to feel comfortable with this project, to move forward, to accept the contract, to dedicate the massive amount of  hours the work would require, I had to LOVE what I was doing and that just wasn't the case.

BUT.....other opportunities can come along....and recently, another one did.....one that absolutely DID feel right....I will tell you more about it in my next post.




8 comments:

glassbylindi.blogspot.com said...

So glad to hear you did not 'settle'. I too was in a similar situation and turned it down. When God closes a window, He opens a door. L

Daryl @ Patchouli Moon Studio said...

Jill I love all three of your mushrooms, but the last one really does pop! If these were to be in a coloring book, then the person doing the coloring could make the drawing darker like your last one, but of course as a coloring page it is up to the person coloring the drawing to do their own thing too. I understand if it doesn't feel right to you though. You have to go with your gut instinct. Now I am curious about your new adventure and looking forward to reading more about it. Good luck with whatever it is.

Debbie said...

I love the idea of a coloring book of your designs, but can really see why you made your decision. The simple version does not have your zing. It is absolutely your ability to play with the negative space that makes your doodles the best! excited to hear of the newer opportunity....hoping it works out.

Amy @ Amy's FMQ Adventures said...

I love the coloring books for grown ups and one from you would be awesome. But if it doesn't fit, then I don't have to worry about giving yours the stink eye at my Barnes and Noble bookstore as these coloring books are crowding out the quilting magazines! I will help myself to your freebie download ones!

The Inside Stori said...

It’s almost always right to listen to that little inner voice….I applaud you for listening to yours.

quiltedfabricart said...

I am so impressed that you didn't lower your standards and "sell out". being able to turn down an offer of fame and fortune takes courage and you have it, sister! I am one of those who thought you would be good at it but only on your terms. Since the craze has gotten so big, frankly I am sick of seeing them and they all sort of start to look the same. your work stands out and is unique so other avenues of fame and fortune will most certainly come your way. good luck to you on the endevours that feel right :-)

Robbie said...

Such an interesting perspective!!! Only you can make that decision...we all love your work whether it's in a 'coloring book' or on your blog!!!

Createology said...

I completely understand your need to have your drawings truly reflect your style. I had no idea of the different versions a printer would just randomly select and print...as yours. I love YOUR artistic drawings and that is what I would expect to be purchasing in a coloring book by Jill Buckley. I admire your decision to wait for the right time and place that has integrity. Good Luck Dear...

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