LCF BA (Hons) Costume for Performance alumna Naomi Howarth has seen her debut children’s book, The Crow’s Tale, shortlisted for the coveted Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2016.
Naomi, who graduated from BA (Hons) Costume for Performance in 2010, published The Crow’s Tale in October 2015. The illustrated book, inspired by a Lenape Native American myth, shows how courage and kindness are what really matter.
LCF News spoke to Naomi to hear about the book, find out how she made the jump from costume to illustration and to get her top tips for LCF students.
Tell us about The Crow’s Tale
The Crow’s Tale is the story of how the Crow turned black. It is inspired by a Lenni Lenape Native American myth. Transformation is an important theme in traditional storytelling, and I love imaginative tales of how animals came to be as we know them now.
How did you make the move from costume to illustration?
During my last year at LCF I focused on design, and developing my drawing and illustration skills. I think there are similarities with Costume Design and Illustration as you are working with a narrative and developing characterisation. The process of designing for film and theatre that I learned at LCF has really helped me with my book work – from research to storyboarding to pitching.
Do you have any advice for LCF students?
While you are studying, enjoy having no creative boundaries! Then when you graduate – Persevere! The first few years out of uni are hard, and I don’t think I am alone in thinking that. Keep learning and finding opportunities to do so. I got onto a great mentoring scheme called Picture Hooks where I had the guidance and support of the fantastic illustrator Catherine Rayner, and being able to learn from her expertise was so invaluable.
The Crow’s Tale has been shortlisted in the Illustrated Books category and the winner will be announced at an event in Waterstones’ Piccadilly store on 17 March. A massive congratulations to Naomi.
Pick up a copy of The Crow’s Tale at Waterstones stores nationwide.
Read more:
- Visit Naomi’s website
- Follow Naomi on Instagram and Twitter
- BA (Hons) Costume for Performance
- Illustration at LCF
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