Megan Hess was destined to draw. An initial career in graphic design evolved into art direction for some of the world’s leading design agencies. She has illustrated portraits for Vanity Fair and The New York Times, and illustrated the windows of Bergdorf Goodman in New York. Megan has also illustrated live for renowned fashion houses such as Christian Dior Couture, Givenchy, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Montblanc, Yves Saint Laurent, Vogue, Prada, Cartier and more. This love affair with fashion led Megan Hess to write a series of beautifully illustrated children’s picture books about a little mouse named Claris (the chicest mouse in Paris!).
Today, Megan is on the blog to answer our Ten Terrifying Questions–read on!
Megan Hess
1. To begin with why don’t you tell us a little bit about yourself – where were you born? Raised? Schooled?
I was born in Brisbane and studied Graphic Design at university hoping it would lead to a creative career of some sort! My first job was an Art Director in Advertising, and then at 20 I packed everything up and moved to London. It was in London that my eyes opened to all the creative opportunities out there in the world and I realised that my love of drawing could actually be my profession.
2. What did you want to be when you were twelve, eighteen and thirty? And why?
At ALL of those ages I’ve always just wanted to draw and create. At twelve, I thought that would be impossible. At eighteen I also thought that it would be impossible. At 30 I had my first BIG break with the cover of Sex and The City and I finally knew it was possible to be an artist! I was finally on my way!
3. What strongly held belief did you have when you were younger that you do not have now?
That getting to the ‘finish line’ on something will bring the most satisfaction and joy. It took me YEARS to realise that the process and the ‘in between’ are actually the magic moments in life.
4. What are three works of art – book or painting or piece of music, etc – that you can now say had a great effect on you and influenced your own development as a writer?
- Everything by Russian artist Erte
- Alfred Hitchcock – Rear Window
- Ella Fitzgerald – “At Last”
5. What made you choose to write a children’s book?
As soon as I had my own children, I wanted to desperately write a children’s book. There were already so many wonderful books for children but I really wanted to create a character that was different. It felt like all books for little girls had to be either about a complete princess or a total tomboy … I wanted a little character that could love fashion (as I do) but was also enormously brave and adventurous. With that in mind I created CLARIS – The Chicest Mouse In Paris. Of all the projects that I work on, she is my absolute favourite!
6. Please tell us about your latest book!
My latest book is Claris Bonjour Riviera! I really wanted Claris to have a seaside adventure and I thought it would be so much fun if she snuck into Monsieur’s bag and went with the family on a vacation to the French Riviera! This story is full of adventure, mega boats, turquoise waters and very CHIC fashion! As always, its Claris’ big heart that is the highlight of the story. This story centres around making new friends and how important it is to help others in need–even if you’re not friends yet.
7. What do you hope kids will take away with them after reading your book?
I always hope that kids will connect with Claris. One of the reasons I made Claris a little mouse is because she’s so small and everything in the world around her feels so big. I think this is how kids often feel too. I want kids to know that it’s wonderful to express themselves and be who they want to be–its ok to aspire to great things and want to have a wonderful life. I also really want kids to understand how important compassion and kindness is. Going out of your way to help someone is a powerful way to life–especially as a kid.
8. Who do you most admire in the realm of writing and why?
Beatrix Potter. She created a world of wonderful characters and stories in the 1800s and it’s still loved today. She created a career as a female writer at a time when the opportunities were very limited. More than anything, her stories have survived the test of time and I think she’s incredibly inspiring.
9. Many artists set themselves very ambitious goals. What are yours?
My biggest goal was always to be able to do what I love for a living. I can honestly tell you that I am so grateful every single day for this. When I walk into my studio each morning I say a silent little ‘thank you!’ in my mind. If I get to create forever, I’ll be the happiest person alive.
10. What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Just start writing and don’t stop, and if it’s your dream then never, ever give up on it. Spending time on something you love is never a waste of time. It’s a life well spent and remember–the process and journey can be even more incredible than reaching the destination.
Thank you for playing!
We have SIGNED copies available of several Megan Hess books–all three Claris books (Claris the Chicest Mouse in Paris, Claris Fashion Show Fiasco, Claris Bonjour Riviera), as well as Paris Through a Fashion Eye and Elegance: The Beauty of French Fashion!*
*Signed copies available only while stocks last.
Claris: Bonjour Riviera
‘Pack your bags darling Claris, try not to delay. We’re off to the French Riviera – today!’
A sweet little mouse, a new friend and a seaside adventure on the French Riviera! The third Claris book from acclaimed fashion illustrator Megan Hess.
Comments
March 21, 2020 at 11:44 am
I have 5 Children I love to send books to. But can’t find enough information as to which books are most suitable for 4 year olds to 8 year olds. Maybe there is a list?
Thank you