Creative Process
When I start on my illustrations, I research the project and try to get
more insight into the topic. I start by writing ideas, brainstorming,
and looking at books, websites, and other weird things. I focus heav-
ily on concept in conjunction with a strong image—I think that’s the
winning combo for a successful illustration.
I then do a whole bunch of small rough thumbnails, and figure out
which one I like best and which layout is strongest. From there I will
make my final drawing. If I’m working on a silkscreen poster, I will
scan the drawing in, do the color separations in Photoshop, output
the films, and have it printed. If I’m working on a painting, I will trans-
fer my drawing to a sanded and gessoed piece of birch, and paint it.
Tara McPherson
104
Creating Comics
T
ara McPherson is a painter, poster artist, and
freelance illustrator based in New York City who
creates art about people and their odd ways. Her
characters exude an idealized innocence with a glimpse of
hard-earned wisdom in their eyes. Recalling many issues
from childhood and her life experiences, she creates images
that are thought provoking and seductive. People and their
relationships are a central theme throughout her work.
[to the left]
Title: Unicorn Girl
Media: Graphite and acrylic on paper, Photoshop, silkscreen
[above left]
Title: Snake Lady
Media: Graphite and acrylic on paper, Photoshop, silkscreen
[above rigt]
Title: Sometimes I Just Want a Hug
Media: Acrylic on birch
Creative Process
When I start on my illustrations, I research the project and try to get
more insight into the topic. I start by writing ideas, brainstorming,
and looking at books, websites, and other weird things. I focus heav-
ily on concept in conjunction with a strong image—I think that’s the
winning combo for a successful illustration.
I then do a whole bunch of small rough thumbnails, and figure out
which one I like best and which layout is strongest. From there I will
make my final drawing. If I’m working on a silkscreen poster, I will
scan the drawing in, do the color separations in Photoshop, output
the films, and have it printed. If I’m working on a painting, I will trans-
fer my drawing to a sanded and gessoed piece of birch, and paint it.
Tara McPherson
105
Tara McPherson
hard-earned wisdom in their eyes. Recalling many issues
from childhood and her life experiences, she creates images
that are thought provoking and seductive. People and their
relationships are a central theme throughout her work.
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Creating Comics
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(Text)
[above left]
Title: Love Blows
Media: Graphite and acrylic on paper,
Photoshop, silkscreen
[below left]
Title: Why Do I Do What I Do
Media: Acrylic on birch
[above right]
Title: The Dull Sound
Media: Graphite and ink on paper,
Photoshop, silkscreen
[below right]
Title: The Dull Sound
Media: Graphite and ink on paper,
Photoshop, silkscreen
107
Tara McPherson
Job:05-19413 Title:Creating Comics
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