Today we’d like to introduce you to Shadra Strickland
Hi Shadra, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I studied design and illustration at Syracuse University. From there I taught elementary school art for three years before moving back to New York to complete my M.F.A. I lived in New York for six years, in which time I interned at a major publishing house, taught at an after school program in Chinatown, and illustrating my first three picturebooks.
I left NY in 2010 to go back home for a year and be with my mom after losing one of her brothers. Now that she’s no longer with me, I can’t be more thankful for that year we spent together. After a year in Atlanta, I moved to Baltimore to teach illustration at Maryland Institute College of Art. I have continued illustrating and writing my own stories alongside teaching. This year is my second year chairing the illustration department.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been relatively smooth. The early days of living hand to mouth in New York City were a struggle but were also some of the most exciting for me as I was a part of a strong community of artists who were determined to make it.
I come from a lower middle class background, so I always knew there was no safety net that I could fall back onto. I knew if I worked hard and stayed focus, I’d be successful – which never meant rich in my mind – but it did mean having a financially stable life making art and having that art appreciated by many.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a children’s book author and illustrator. I specialize in taking a very thoughtful and playful approach to storytelling. I’m known for mixing media and experimenting.
I’m most proud of still being asked to make books! It takes me a long time to complete a book given my teaching schedule, so I am always grateful when people continue to think of me for their books.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My family first and foremost and my community growing up in Atlanta. I was surrounded by people who believed in my art. I am also grateful for my mentor, Pat Cummings, who has had a very long career in the business as a storyteller and teacher. My agent, Lori Nowicki has been an amazing business collaborator and friend. Without her, my career wouldn’t have had the reach that it does today. She is the person who encouraged me to represent my own group of artists under her umbrella.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.shadrastrickland.com
- Instagram: shadrieka
- Other: https://www.substack.com/@shadrastrickland
