If you’re going to make a book, you need a talented illustrator to make great pictures to go with it. The PERFECT illustrator for the free rocky shore ecosystem curriculum I am creating for educators is on the job – Adam Kelley.
The sea stars really aligned when I found out about Adam. I contacted a publishing company in New Hampshire a couple of years ago to see if they would be willing to help me make the curriculum. They quickly recommended Adam as an illustrator who would be a good fit for the project, and is he ever! Despite my choice to go with a different publisher (Hobblebush Design), Adam readily agreed to continue to collaborate on this project.
Adam describes his three passions on his website as being “science, art and education.” He has taken his passions and talent and worked with SEVERAL incredible institutions – the Georgia Aquarium, the Connecticut Science Center, the Smithsonian, the Perot Museum, the Franklin Institute, McGraw-Hill and more!
The best thing about Adam, however, is his character. I’ll be honest with you – I was quite nervous meeting him for the first time. I figured an accomplished illustrator like Adam might have an air about him which suggested my project and I were beneath him. Was I ever wrong! Adam is not only enthusiastic about this project, he is one incredibly kind and down-to-earth guy who loves his family, his work, and nature.
As you may have guessed, I am extremely thankful for Adam, his abilities, and his willingness to work on this project. He is going to be creating an amazing cover page and spot illustrations for the rocky shore curriculum. Stay tuned as I will be providing more updates on our collaboration in the near future.
Adam’s Website: http://adamjamescp.com/
all illustrations above by Adam Kelley
Thom R. Smith 