Interview With Author Cinthia James
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m Cinthia James, an illustrator and surface pattern designer based in Berlin, Germany. I have authored one book designed to establish a creative process that supports both beginner and seasoned artists. It offers strategies to find inspiration and tackle art block effectively.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I needed to revisit my artistic foundations after earning a graphic design degree and navigating a career that didn’t align with my creative goals. This led to the creation of “Treasure Found: An Art Journey.” The book is a personal account of overcoming the challenges I faced, embracing uncertainties, and celebrating my unique style. It’s packed with insights on pursuing art with discipline and joy, aimed at inspiring others to kickstart their creative journeys and build rewarding artistic practices.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really; my writing habits are somewhat structured, much like the art process outlined in “Treasure Found.” I typically start by taking notes and brainstorming, then I create an outline, and gradually tackle each chapter and subject—though not necessarily in that order. I haven’t written a novel, but if I were to, I imagine I’d follow a similar approach.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My book focuses on art, so I’ve been influenced by artists who have written about their creative fields or techniques, as well as art books in general. I assessed what I had collected, what I enjoyed, and what I felt was missing from an art book. The design of my book is clean and straightforward, featuring a conceptual treasure hunt theme. Among my influences, I really enjoyed “In Progress” by Jessica Hische and the pattern books by Bowie Style.
What are you working on now?
You can regularly see my new illustration projects on my website and Instagram, where I’m thrilled to continue sharing my artistic journey. Building on the momentum of “Treasure Found,” I’m now exploring art licensing to bring my creations to a wider audience. Additionally, I’ve begun outlining a second book that promises to delve even deeper into the creative process. There’s much to look forward to for those who support and follow my work.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have primarily focused my promotional efforts on blogs within the art and K-pop communities. I am now beginning to expand my reach to websites like Awesome Gang.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Go for it! Write the book and don’t be afraid to self-publish. You can gain a lot both professionally and personally. I was initially fearful and experienced major imposter syndrome, but now, with my book “Treasure Found: An Art Journey,” I am an award-winning author and illustrator.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Starting is the hardest part; the rest gets easier.
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading Iris Murdoch’s “Under the Net”. From an art perspective, I’m also reviewing the fashion books in my collection.
What’s next for you as a writer?
As a writer, my second book will focus on a particular aspect of the creative process, aiming to thoroughly explore and expand on that theme. It will offer new insights and practical advice, enabling artists to delve deeper into their creative practices.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Choosing books for a desert island is a tough call for me since I usually read a book and then move on to the next. For a novel, I’d need a crime drama. The other three would be art books: Piet Paris’ “Fashion Illustrations”, Antonio Lopez’s “Fashion, Art, Sex & Disco”, and either my own book, “Treasure Found: An Art Journey”, or a spontaneous pick from my shelf.
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