Hi there, I'm Dannie – think of it as 'Annie with a D'! Here is a bit about my journey to become a Children's book Illustrator:
I arrived in the U.S. with my family when I was just 12 and was raised amidst the lively streets of NYC, which ignited my passion for art.
I later settled in Boston, Massachusetts, where I spent over a decade as a lead graphic designer. But life had an unexpected twist in store. Marriage and motherhood became the catalyst for discovering my true passion – children's illustration.
With a toddler in tow, our family embarked on an incredible four-year adventure, living and traveling across Europe and Asia. This remarkable journey reignited my love for illustration and shaped my artistic style. It's a style brimming with vibrant colors, whimsical details, and a profound appreciation for the diversity of our world.
Today, we call sunny Florida our home, where I live with my family and our super-naughty pet rabbit.
In January 2023, I achieved a personal goal by publishing my own bilingual Mandarin learning picture book. This book was created with a mission to spark the interest of mixed-race kids (much like my daughter) and encourage them to explore the world of Mandarin. It's available in both digital and print formats on Amazon. Completing the self-publishing project has provided me with valuable insights into the needs of authors and publishers when collaborating with an illustrator, as well as the intricacies of art formatting for various mediums.
So, why did I become a kid-lit illustrator?
I have a genuine passion for spending time making art with children and admiring how they perceive the world from their unique perspectives. The process of bringing imagination to life through art is what I love most. I often find myself immersed in my own world of creativity, a world that frequently springs to life in my illustrations. I'm a kid at heart, it's what keeps my spirit young and my art connected with young readers.
I'm always excited to take on fun and creative projects. Don't hesitate to reach out, whether you have questions, creative ideas, or simply want to have a friendly chat. I'm all ears and can't wait to hear your story, exploring how we can bring it to life!
