Riley and the Elephant
"Riley and the Elephant" is a touching story of love, imagination, and adventure. Inspired by a father’s wish to share the wonders of his Australian heritage with his son growing up in the USA, this book takes readers on a magical journey. Through the eyes of young Riley, the story unfolds as an enchanting exploration of landscapes, culture, and the deep bond between parent and child.
The Creative Challenge
The task was to illustrate 15 beautifully detailed yet whimsical scenes, including the cover. The goal was to create a unique visual style that felt both magical and heartfelt, capturing the warmth of childhood wonder while maintaining a rich level of detail.
The Artistic Approach
Using Photoshop and a raster-based technique, I crafted vibrant, character-driven illustrations that blend cinematic lighting with a charming, cartoon-inspired aesthetic. The color palette was carefully selected to evoke warmth and nostalgia, while expressive character designs added depth to Riley’s adventure. Each illustration was infused with movement and emotion to fully immerse young readers in the story.
Final Result
The project resulted in 15 captivating illustrations that brought Riley’s journey to life. Every scene was crafted with care to reflect the heartfelt nature of the story, turning this book into more than just a tale, it became a treasured keepsake. The client was thrilled with the final result, and I’m honored to have contributed to a story that celebrates family, heritage, and the power of imagination.
