about
Hi, I’m Tami Traylor. I’m a visual storyteller, illustrator, creative professional, advocate for art education, and mom.
Stories have been part of my life from my earliest memories. I was raised on the tales my grandparents and their kin wove in the Appalachian narrative tradition. We may not have had much, materially, but we always had stories and that is what, ultimately, led me to illustration.
I was fortunate enough to realize, early on, I had my own gift of storytelling. I longed to tell my own tales and create compelling images, like those in the books I held so dear. So, I did what every kid does, I drew on anything that sat still long enough to put a mark on it.
Drawing became my way of telling the story, which is why I call myself a “visual storyteller.”
I’ve been working as a creative professional for close to 18 years, deeply entrenched in the world of corporate design. After nearly two decades as a graphic designer, I decided to take the leap into my dream career as a full-time illustrator. It’s been an interesting ride so far, and one, I know, I’ll never regret.
Illustration is where my heart is.
That being said, this website, is sort of a virtual home to my heart. I regularly post to my blog, share my process, entertain my creative whimsy and write about what I’m up to. My best work gets posted here, cross-pollenated by my Flickr portfolio.
The subject matter of my work focuses mainly on children, animals, flora and fauna and the natural world. No matter what the subject, I always endeavor to create compelling, narrative imagery that satisfies the requirements of my clients.
My style is a whimsical mixture of hand-drawing and digital painting. I like to let my drawing show through, keeping the overall feeling of the work lyrical and loose, emphasizing line and form without being “slick” and obviously digital. In addition to working digitally, I also work in the analog world, using pencils, ink, coquille board, watercolor, gouache and scratchboard.
I’m available for all kinds of commissions, including illustrations for:
- Children’s books and educational publications
- Children’s magazines such as Cricket and Highlights Magazine
- Promotional work for organizations that specialize children issues or wildlife/ecological issues
- Illustrations for juvenile related licensing and quilt patterns
I have a respect for the tight deadlines inherent in my field and hold ethics and professionalism in high regard.
I am always open to receiving feedback and love to hear from other creative professionals, so please feel free to contact me or send me an email.
