Kristin Sorra
Kristin Sorra is an award-winning children’s book illustrator. Her parents immigrated from the Philippines to Baltimore, MD, where she was born. She earned her degree in Illustration from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, graduating with highest honors, after which she co-owned a digital coloring house that catered to comic book publishers. She illustrated for magazines, online games, hang tags, posters, stationery, textiles, and even designed Halloween costumes. Kristin lives in New York’s Hudson Valley, with her family.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
Corduroy by Don Freeman
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
Some favorite illustrators include Lane Smith, Mary Blair, Edward Gorey. It’s virtually impossible to narrow them down!
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
Once I discovered that people can draw and paint to make a living, it was the only goal I set out to do. I had a teacher in college that gave me the idea of applying my work to picture books and it was suddenly obvious to me. But I also illustrate for all kinds of platforms. I love the process of creating.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
For me being an artist is like being an active observer, wherever I go, no matter how mundane the task. So have a sketchbook or notebook handy, so you can jot down thoughts or ideas. Also, and I think this applies to both authors and illustrators, the best thing you can do is to practice writing or drawing daily, even if it’s just for 15-30 minutes.
