Tony DiTerlizzi

The author and illustrator shares his influences and tips

Where did you grow up and how has this influenced your art? I grew up in Jupiter, Florida, which back in the 1970s and 80s was a small town. I spent summers fishing, snorkelling and exploring the nearby rivers, beaches and coves. As a Boy Scout, I often camped in my backyard or nearby woods where I’d capture snakes, lizards and insects to bring home and sketch. I was fascinated by all living creatures and inspired by their endless variety and forms. I’m still in awe of the natural world to this day, from bizarre deepsea fish to colourful insects and birds of the rainforests. Mother Nature has had a tremendous impact on the art and imaginary worlds that I have created.

Is there a painting that you saw in your formative years that changed everything? What was it?

My parents purchased a large coffee table book that collected the paintings of Norman Rockwell. I still recall rainy afternoons poring over this book and the spell Rockwell’s art cast over me. Every illustration was a story. The figures acted out their emotions while the props and staging supported the sentiment Rockwell was conveying.