About Chad Wallace
I graduated from Syracuse University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, and earned my Masters Degree in Illustration at F.I.T.in 2007. I have been published as an illustrator six times including titles such as Wake Up Bertha Bear (2005), Earth Day Birthday (2003)- winner of the 2006 KIND Children's Honor Book, and Pass The Energy Please! (1999) Skipping Stones Honor Award 2001.
I am a member of the Society of Illustrators, NY and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (S.C.B.W.I..
It has always been my dream to be the author and illustrator of my own children's book. I find that books written and illustrated by the same person have a cohesiveness that is difficult to achieve when the author and illustrator are separate entities. I draw inspiration from animals and nature, and my themes often reflect an appreciation for the two. My style can be described as "stylized realism". My characters are realistic in appearance, but have human-like dispositions. Digital technology allows films to create special effects in that same spirit.
I don't believe in the distinction that has been made between fine art and illustration. I feel that all art is narrative whether it is in print alongside type or hanging on a wall. When I'm not illustrating I can be found drawing from life or painting a landscape.