Craig Witte's Curious George Illustrations

Curious George

client

Houghton Mifflin

Category

Illustration

Illustrating Curious George was an extraordinary experience that I will cherish forever. I had the privilege of illustrating a total of five books, each a labor of love meticulously crafted by hand, without any computer assistance. The process was as intricate as it was rewarding, with each page painted at double the original size to capture every detail with precision and care. Watercolor, with its delicate transparency and fluidity, was the medium of choice. Each stroke of the brush was deliberate, every color mixed with thoughtfulness, aimed to bring the world of Curious George to life. The larger scale allowed me to hone in on the finer details, ensuring that each character, scene, and moment was rendered with accuracy and charm. This hands-on approach turned each page into a miniature work of art. There’s something profoundly satisfying about creating art that is tangible, where you can feel the texture of the paper and see the subtle variations in color up close. It’s an immersive process, one that demands patience and dedication but rewards you with a deeply personal connection. The task of illustrating a beloved character like Curious George came with its own unique set of challenges and joys. There was the responsibility of staying true to the character’s legacy, ensuring that each illustration captured the whimsical spirit and curious nature that readers have come to love. But within those boundaries, there was also room for personal expression and creativity, allowing me to infuse the illustrations with my own artistic touch. Reflecting on the experience, I realize how much I grew as an artist during those projects. It wasn’t just about creating illustrations; it was about storytelling, conveying emotions, and bringing joy to readers, both young and old.

The books I illustrated are: