Illustrator Spotlight: S.J. Winkler
© S.J. Winkler Oct. 1, 2023 vol. 40 We are pleased to feature illustrator S.J. Winkler and her banner design for Kidlit411, and her picture book, Sister , written by Leia M. Johnson (Phoenix Media and Books 2023). Enter to win a copy via the Rafflecopter below! Tell us about yourself and how you came to illustrate for children. I started as a near-sighted military kid. We moved to a new state every 3 years or so, and — being an only child — books, sketchbooks, and television kept me company. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in publishing by my early 20s. I joined the SCBWI in 2010, and relied heavily on the guidance offered through their conferences and critique groups. After graduating university with a BA in English Language & Literature, and a BA in Art Studio, I worked on projects and process improvement until doors started opening for me. My first illustration gig was for Sky Pony Press on the picture book Every Other Christmas, by Katie Otey, released September of 2022
