Hola, ¿cómo estás? I know that is a charged question these days… I hope you are staying home (if you can) and staying safe. I hope you find reasons to smile and keep going despite the fear and uncertainty. We are living through some weird times, but this too shall pass.
I am doing okay considering the circumstances. I was very busy this winter: teaching and working on a new book. But then I finished the book (YAY!), the classes I teach got cancelled mid-way (booo!), and all my plans fell through. The coronavirus arrived to California and life slowed down for me.
Of course, it’s not what I wanted or what I expected, but we are all dealing with this new reality the best we can. And that’s why I’m here!
I’ve been isolating for a few weeks, and I already started working on my next book. But I also wanted to find some time to reach out... Although we can’t meet up for coffee, we can still be here for each other.
I’ve collected some resources that hopefully will bring you some hope, distraction or reassurance during these difficult days. Okay, here they are:
ANYWHERE: The Place Ideas Live, by Carol Coven Grannick. I love this insight into creativity and inspiration. I know we might have to do this from home right now… but let’s keep our eyes open! Who knows what we might find.
It Is Normal to Not Be Productive During a Global Crisis, by K-Fai Steele. If you are having trouble adjusting to the “new normal”, this might help a bit.
Tombow Brush Markers & Techniques, by Jenny Barnett Rohrs. In case you want to use this time at home to try out some new art supplies! Personally, I love these Tombow brush markers because they can be used in a million different ways. They are super fun.
Ask the Agent, by Jennifer Laughran (Senior Agent at the Andrea Brown Literary Agency). This is a well of information! If you are feeling bored, this might make you feel better than scrolling through Instagram. ;)
SCBWI Digital Workshops. The Society of Children Book Writers & Illustrators is offering its members a series of free digital workshops! Sadly all the upcoming SCBWI events and conferences (including the ones I was going to teach at this spring) had to be canceled… So this is fantastic news!
The J. Paul Getty Museum, in Google Arts & Culture. I love experiencing things in real life… However, these days I give thanks to the universe for my laptop and internet connection. Are you stuck at home and can’t go to a museum? No problem! You can still visit the Getty Museum in L.A. and get as close as you want to the artwork. Enjoy!
Neil Gaiman: Keynote Address 2012, for University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Sometimes when I’m in need of inspiration, I watch this speech by Neil Gaiman again. Follow the link to find the video transcription.
Attention please: While I think the overall message in this speech is fantastic… I do not agree with the “lying” part. In fact, if any students of mine are reading this, please do NOT lie to get a job. The publishing world is incredible small, people talk to each other, and lying could ruin your career before it even starts. It’s just not worth it.
Amigos y amigas, I hope this was helpful!
Please be kind to others and show yourself infinite compassion. Make art if you feel like it. Be productive… or don’t! Sitting on the couch in your PJs is valid, and so is writing a new picture book.
But above all there is something I’d like you to remember: it’s ALWAYS okay to find joy. You do not need to suffer to be good. Even when things are hard for so many people, if you feel the tiniest bit happy, grab onto that feeling. It’s okay for us to paint, dance, laugh, celebrate and enjoy!
Much love,
Diana.