In this episode, we sit down with Melquea Smith, an award-winning children’s book illustrator from Syracuse and the creative force behind PrettyKittyPaintings. From discovering art online at a young age to turning it into a full-time career, Melquea shares what it really takes to break into the world of children’s publishing. She pulls back the curtain on an industry that can feel like a “secret society,” explaining how she found her lane, built her skillset, and learned to tell powerful stories through illustration.

We dive into the artistry behind children’s books in a way most people never think about. Melquea explains how every detail matters, from color choices that shape emotion to subtle techniques that guide a reader to turn the page. What looks simple on the surface is actually the result of months or even years of work, layered with intention, psychology, and storytelling. She also shares the realities of the business side, including how illustrators get paid, how long projects really take, and why you have to truly love the work to stay in it.

Beyond books, Melquea is building something bigger. Through her clip art subscription, she’s helping educators, creators, and authors access diverse, joyful imagery that reflects the real world. At the heart of everything she does is a mission to normalize and celebrate representation, creativity, and self-expression. This conversation is thoughtful, eye-opening, and full of perspective for anyone who’s ever underestimated what goes into a children’s book.

We Discuss:
• How Melquea found her path into children’s book illustration and what it takes to break in
• The hidden complexity behind picture books and why “simple” is actually very hard
• The business side of illustration, including timelines, payments, and royalties
• How art influences emotion through color, composition, and storytelling techniques
• Her clip art membership and mission to bring more diversity and representation into creative spaces

This one will completely change the way you look at children’s books—and might just inspire you to create something of your own.

This episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.
(https://www.instagram.com/vaultcapitalpartners)

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:00) - Getting Started in Illustration
(5:00) - Sequential Storytelling
(6:30) - Learning the Industry
(7:30) - Cannot Exist Without Creating
(8:25) - Relationship with Author
(11:15) - Project Criteria
(15:30) - Structure of Deals
(19:40) - Business Mind vs. Artistic Heart
(21:15) - Amount of Time Per Book
(24:30) - Insider Secrets & Strategy
(28:30) - Melquea's Style & Personal Elements
(31:00) - Thoughts on AI
(35:30) - Clipart Membership
(40:45) - Rapid Fire Questions


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Melquea Smith's Links:
Website - https://www.prettykittypaintings.com
IG - https://www.instagram.com/prettykittypaintings
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melqueasmith
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PrettyKittyPaintings

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