Interview with Dee Tracy: From Retired Decorator to Illustrator & Author

 

I’m absolutely delighted to introduce you to Illustrator and Author Dee Tracy who is living proof that retirement is the perfect time to learn to draw.

Dee Tracy was born in Franklin, Indiana USA and has lived in the USA her entire life. She’s a retired Interior Decorator and ever since she was a child she dreamt of being able to draw from her imagination. She believed all her life she couldn’t.

Now, in her retirement, she has not only learned to draw within just 18 months of studying with me, she’s about to publish her first illustrated book for women ‘Fanciful Fleur The Entrepreneur.’

 

Artist and Author: Dee Tracy Book Cover Design: Melinda Martin

 

Dee’s whimsical illustrations of anthropomorphic, vintage-inspired characters combined with charming poetry, transports, uplifts and inspires us. Her work brings an instant smile to our face as we travel on a journey into another time and place. Precious moments filled with innocent wonder flow naturally through Dee, outwards and into the pages of her books, bringing happiness and joy to so many.

Through Fanciful Fleur and her other characters, Dee inspires, motivates and urges her viewers onwards and upwards into an ever-positive life filled with hope and purpose.

My goal for this interview is to introduce you to Dee, to celebrate the amazing journey she has been on; to change her creative identity. From ‘I can’t draw from imagination’ to ‘I absolutely can!’ Dee is now a professional illustrator, author and poet. Her book ‘Fanciful Fleur The Entrepreneur’ will be available for purchase soon.

I hope you feel truly inspired by Dee and her journey of learning to draw in retirement.

 

 

Interview with Author, Artist and Poet Dee Tracy by Cindy Wider

 

 

Q: Before you started to learn to draw with me, did you believe that you couldn’t draw?

A: I always wanted to draw but thought it was a skill you had to be born with.   In the 1990’s I studied Betty Edwards Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain. I was thrilled to realize that I could actually learn to draw.  But I was unable to draw from my imagination. I always wanted to create my own characters and to to draw interiors in perspective.  Your mentoring program allowed me to create characters and draw rooms full of detail and charm!

 

Q: When did you first decide you would like to write and illustrate a children’s book?

A: Once I learned character design I found myself thinking of scenarios my character would find herself getting into. It was at that point I began writing poems and imagining ideas that could encourage others to dream about their future and to believe in themselves.

 

Q: What were your greatest fears before you started the journey into book illustrations?

A: I was unsure of my art style, with your help, I feel confident about my chosen materials and the unique style I have developed.

 

 

Q: Do you feel you’ve met your own expectations along this journey of learning to draw?

A: I can honestly say that I am delighted with my accomplishments since being mentored by you, Cindy. I am fortunate to be in a season of life that allows me plenty of time to dedicate to learning and practicing my art. Your encouragement is priceless!

 

 

 

Q: How do you feel about your transformation from when you first thought, “I can’t draw” to how you feel now, “wow, did I do this?” Can you positively see that it is absolutely possible for you now with my help?

A: I’m filled with joy and enthusiasm about my future as an illustrator!

 

 

Q: What was it like studying with my mentored support; do you recommend this process to others?

A: It’s been exciting, I’ve learned so much about the world of illustration and how much is involved in this art form, and since I’m project-driven, the accountability has been wonderful.

 

 

Q: What kind of drawings are you doing right now; tell us about your new book that is about to be released.

A: I’m drawing my characters in different poses and costumes. My original character, Fleur, has made several friends along the way. I’ve written her 4th book and I’ve just completed all of the illustrations for it. I’ve also fallen in love with drawing interiors from my imagination. As a retired decorator, I’m finding this style of drawing to be merging my love of decorating and illustrating!

 

Q: Do you have any favourite drawings that you’ve creative for your book?

A: My favorites from Fanciful Fleur the Entrepreneur are of The Professional Shopper and The Cosmetic Sales Clerk. From Diligent Daisy is Never Lazy my favorite is of Daisy leaving the circus.

 

Q: What are your favourite art materials and why?

A: After trying several brands and styles of watercolor paper, I only have eyes for St. Cuthert’s Mill Botanica Ultra Smooth. I can’t imagine I’ll ever try another brand. Thanks to you Cindy for introducing me to St. Cuther’s Mill. I use Faber-Castell Albrecht Durer Watercolor pencils, Polychromos colored pencils, Derwent Pro-Colour colored pencils and various brands of graphite.

 

Q: Do you have any words of advice for beginners just entering this journey and believing that they can’t draw?

A: Practice every chance you get! I know many future illustrators are busy raising families and getting through every day life. If you’re in a season of having little time for yourself, give yourself small goals of putting pencil to paper every day. It may feel selfish, but your loved ones will admire your tenacity and dedication to learning your craft.

 

 

Q: What are your plans for the future with your newly published book? 

A: At last I’m now in the process of publishing this book about Fleur the Entrepreneur and getting her out into the world because I believe it is a fun, encouraging story for women. I’m also in the process of submitting my portfolio to companies for art licensing.

 

 

For the latest availability and updates on Dee’s books email:

Cindy Wider: Cindy@drawpj.com