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.
Moon Princess
Moon Princess
TheShowIsOver
The Show Is Over
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.
TheMystic1
The Mystic
Mary Cassatt Worlds Fair
Mary Cassatt at the World's Fair
Young Mary Cassatt sees the works of French artists Degas, Delacroix, and Ingres, among others, for the first time at the Paris World's Fair of 1855.
Mary Cassatt Balloon Ride
Mary Cassatt Balloon Ride
Later that night, Mary Cassatt dreamed of flying in one of the hot air balloons she had seen at the World’s Fair.
MrsFezziwigsFig
Mrs. Fezziwig's Fig
AsleepInTheMoonlight
Asleep in the Moonlight
This illustration is from a new picture book I wrote and illustrated.
Alice Card Dance
Alice's Cards
From "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll
AlicesMirror
Alice's Mirror
From "Through the Looking-Glass" by Lewis Carroll
Candle in the Dark
Candle in the Dark
TowingHerHouse
In for a Ride...
