Meet Stories for Children FG Illustrator Feras Nouf
Illustrator Feras Nouf is a graduate of the Faculty of Fine Arts in Damascus, Syria. His creative talents have reached far beyond Syria, and he has become a sought-out illustrator internationally. Join us in this heartwarming interview and be inspired. Learn how, with the proper support and encouragement, anything is possible.
SFC interviewed author C.J. Pumpkins in our November issue. Please describe the collaboration process between you, C.J., and the publisher.
I've received an e-mail from author C. J. Pumpkins, who wanted to work with me on a few projects. The first was “The Dream Stowaway.” I was very glad to work on this book, it was a great experience, because the script was awesome and the main character was a new one that no one had ever seen before.
At first, the work went slowly because of the big difference between our cultural backgrounds and the difference between our time zones (USA and Syria). After we both got a grip on that, everything went along smoothly.
What inspires you as you begin a new project?
I think of a successful book like a bird: it can't fly with just one wing. A good manuscript is an inspiration for the illustrator to do the best illustrations they can. When I receive a script, I read it thinking of myself as a child; if I enjoyed the script, I know that other children who read it will enjoy it too. My favorite books to illustrate are animal stories, ancient Arabic stories, and funny stories.
Was there a person from your childhood who encouraged you to pursue your artistic talent?
I loved reading books as a child. I spent most of my childhood reading books with a lot of illustrations as well as comic books. I remember that I started drawing before I even learned to write. My father provided me with everything that I needed to practice my drawing. When I grew up and became an art student, I was number one amongst all of my colleagues. My art teachers were also great supporters.
What was the best piece of advice you received when you started your career as an illustrator?
Keep the child alive inside your spirit.
Who are some of your favorite children's illustrators?
There is a Syrian illustrator whose name is Mumtaz Al-Bahra. I spent numerous hours studying his illustrations and comic books. When I met him for the first time, I kissed his hand and told him, “You are my real teacher and I will always be your student.”
Please describe your path to success in becoming an artist. Were there any particular obstacles that you needed to overcome?
Actually my plan was to become an editorial cartoonist, but when I had to choose, I decided to be an illustrator of children’s books instead. I haven’t had any real obstacles in my career. All I need to keep going is to keep receiving good manuscripts. My only real difficulty is my inability to speak English. Because of this barrier, I am constantly working hard to perfect my level in learning the English language.
How long have you been working as a freelance artist and illustrator?
I have been a professional illustrator for ten years now, dating back to 1998. I remember when I drew two comic book pages, those were my first drawings. I wasn't quite sure about them, but I sent them to a children’s magazine in Kuwait. I was pleasantly surprised when they decided to publish them in their next issue. They paid me $400. (WOW!) That was a fortune to me. That was the turning point for me and I realized that I could be a successful children’s book illustrator.
Do you have a favorite medium or style?
I prefer the cartoony style, and I have been very successful using this style of illustrating.
How long does it take to illustrate a picture book?
It depends on the details of the pictures, and the geographic location of the author, but the Internet makes the communication very easy.
How do you keep your work new and original?
I give all the time and best effort to make sure that I draw good illustrations. Every illustration is a challenge and everybody knows that children are hard to satisfy and please, so I take my job very seriously.
Do you conduct school visits? If so, how is a typical visit structured?
Unfortunately, we don't have those kinds of activities in Syria, but in my spare time, I organize workshops for children.
We understand you have a new book coming out. Please share with us the details.
In fact, at the time this interview is published, I will have just finished a book for an American author named Tami Butcher. I will let her speak about it. Currently, I am working on a few books for two authors. One is from Scotland, and the other is from Canada.
I thank all the staff at SFC magazine for giving me this opportunity and for the chance to spotlight to my work.
Feras, thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule. It has been a true pleasure interviewing you.
To learn more about Feras Nouf’s career visit him at: http://www.trafford.com/4dcgi/TAL-ferasnouf.html