Illustration

The illustrations in children's books have always captured my heart. They are ripe with color and full of fun and mischief. When I was a little girl, I especially enjoyed the Raggedy Ann books, written and illustrated by Johnny Gruelle. They were among the first books I ever read.

I have been wanting to post about the beautiful illustration accompanying this post for quite some time. This is an original illustration that I have in my personal art collection (be sure to click on the picture to see it full-sized, as it was meant to be seen). I found it at a flea market a few years ago, behind a pile of dusty, neglected paintings, in a tattered frame. I was instantly charmed by the unquestionable talent of the artist to illustrate exquisite detail in such an appealing manner (look closely at the texture of the water). When I got it home, I removed it from its frame and was thrilled to see information about the artist handwritten in pencil on the back of the illustration. I thought it was probably an illustration for a children's book and I was apparently correct. The illustrator is one Karl Evans Hoefle. This was the third of an unknown number of illustrations for the story, "Arlie, the Misunderstood Horse", by Janet Reynolds Felt. I do not know if this story was ever published. I have researched it on the internet and haven't gotten very far with my sleuthing. I did manage to discover that the illustrator and the author were married to each other and had a daughter. I, for one, would love to see the story that is meant to accompany this illustration. So, if anyone reading this has any leads for me, please let me know!

Flea markets can be such interesting places. You never know what may be discovered in your quest. Sometimes a little treasure just may jump out at you, like this lovely picture. I plan to go again soon to hunt for vintage jewelry and other goodies to use in some of my designs. Usually, I'm not a big fan of garage sales and the like. I am starting to change my viewpoint, though. So many unique inspirations are available to the open-minded artist- the possibilities are truly endless. Happy hunting!

"Almost every unselfish wish in the world comes true"- from "Raggedy Ann in the Deep, Deep Woods" by Johnny Gruelle