Rebecca Harrison Reed

My artwork has always been narrative, and it is inspired by my love of a good story. I create my strongest work when I am able to develop a deep passion for the characters, story, and setting in the books I illustrate and write. And I enjoy escaping completely into the worlds I create for my characters. I tend to gravitate toward intelligent stories that are classical, historical, dark, or mysterious, as well as stories with true heart and characters. Humor is also a prevalent element in my work.
Stylistically, my illustrations tend to be somewhat realistic, traditional fine art paintings with a slightly stylized, childlike feel. My artwork is frequently influenced by the works of John Singer Sargent, Edwin Austen Abbey, Rembrandt Van Rijn, and numerous children’s book illustrators. I have recently found a new home working in pastel on black paper, which has allowed me to work quickly and loosely, and has also opened up my imagination to story ideas and illustrations in areas I may not have previously explored.

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  Title: Thar Be Pirates
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  Title: The Show Is Over
  Description: Inspired by the works of John Singer Sargent, this illustration is from a new book that I’ve written and illustrated about a vaudeville magician.
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  Title: Moon Princess
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  Title: Midnight Balloon Ride
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  Title: Sailboat Cove
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  Title: Mrs. Fezziwig's Figs
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  Title: Asleep in the Moonlight
  Description: This illustration is from a new picture book I wrote and illustrated.
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  Title: Alice's Card Dance
  Description: From "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll
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  Title: Alice's Mirror
  Description: From "Through the Looking-Glass" by Lewis Carroll
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  Title: Candle in the Dark
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  Title: In for a Ride...