Eric Carle and Tomie dePaola: Author One-on-One
Eric Carle is the creator, author, and illustrator of The Very
Hungry Caterpillar and many other children’s books. Tomie dePaola
is the author and illustrator of Strega Nona: Her Story and
countless other books. They recently had a conversation about
their careers as picture book authors. Eric Carle
Tomie dePaola: When I was only four years old, I announced to my
family in particular and to the world in general that I was going
to become an artist, and write stories and draw pictures for
books. I never swayed from that early declaration. I’ve always
been curious to know, what inspired you to become a creator and
illustrator of picture books?
Eric Carle: My career began as a graphic designer and for a
number of years I worked as an art director for an advertising
agency in New York. In the mid 1960's Bill Martin, Jr. saw an ad
of a red lobster that I had designed and asked me to illustrate
his Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? Well, I was set on
fire! I was so inspired by this book, and the rtunity to
illustrate it changed my life. After that, I started to create my
own books, both words and pictures, and really it was then that I
had found my true course in life.
Now, I have a question for you, Tomie. How would you describe
your artistic style, and has it changed over time?
Tomie dePaola: My illustration style is heavily influenced by
folk art--strong simple shapes, bold lines, color, color, color
and a deceptive simplicity. My style began to develop early in
art school, and through the years, it hasn’t changed very much,
but it has refined itself. How would you describe yours?
Eric Carle: My with my work is to simplify and refine, be
logical and harmonious. I like to use simple shapes, bright
colors and a lot of white space. I write for the child inside of
me. That is always where I begin.
Tomie dePaola Tomie dePaola: I do, as well. The only audience I
keep in mind is that four-year-old in me. People sometimes ask me
what advice I would give to young artists. I always think of the
wonderful advice I received from my twin cousins when they were
in art school in the late '30s. They told me, “Practice,
practice, practice and don’t copy.”
Eric Carle: I often tell people about the four magic letters: DO
IT. I want to be encouraging but I can only offer the example of
my own experience, which is just one approach. There are many
wonderful artists to learn about, which is important. But you
must use your own imagination. You have to just do it.
Tomie dePaola: How do you feel knowing that a copy of The Very
Hungry Caterpillar is sold every 30 seconds, somewhere in the
world?
Eric Carle: It is hard for me, maybe for others too, to grasp
this concept. But I am truly honored that my story is enjoyed by
so many and that it is now being shared by a generation of
parents who grew up with my book. How about your Strega Nona. She
is one of your most popular characters. Can you share how she
came to be?
Tomie dePaola: In the ‘70s when I was teaching at a college, we
were required to attend faculty meetings. I always sat in the
back with a yellow legal pad. Everyone thought I was taking
notes. At one meeting a doodle appeared of a little lady with a
big nose and a big chin. I named her Strega Nona, and the rest is
history. Speaking of history, how will you be celebrating the
third annual Very Hungry Caterpillar Day this year?
Eric Carle: On The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day, March 20th, I
will probably be at home with my wife, Bobbie (I am a bit of a
hermit, actually). But I will be saying a little toast to the
caterpillar for whom I have a special place in my heart. And
speaking of holidays, isn’t your favorite holiday Christmas. Do
you have a special Christmas memory?
Tomie dePaola: Christmas is my favorite holiday. My favorite
Christmas was the one when I received tons and tons of art
supplies: everything from an easel to paints, pads and pads of
paper, and “how to draw” books.