Artist Interview: Anne Runyon
Almost three years ago, I joined a writing group and had the privilege of meeting author and illustrator Anne Runyon. Anne is an incredibly talented, kind, humble, and gentle spirit, and it has been a great privilege to be able to learn from her and glean from the wisdom she has gained over the span of her career. She has an intense love of nature, which can be seen in her work as well as the photos she posts to Facebook of various creatures she finds in her yard (I’m not always super keen on the spiders, but to each his own).
Anne has illustrated books, magazine articles, carved amazing woodcuts, and created murals and maps for various sites around North Carolina including Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Walnut Creek, and the Historic Yates Mill Park.
Mural at Walnut Creek
Anne’s latest book, Longneedle is an absolutely beautiful exploration of the life cycle of the Long Leaf Pine and one of my daughter’s favorites.
1) What mediums do you work in?
I work on paper with ink, graphite, watercolor, and colored pencil. I print woodcuts and create paper craft activities.
2) Other than what you just talked about, do you have any other creative outlets?
I write children’s books and poetry.
3) How did your creative journey begin and how has it evolved?
My family encouraged me to draw and write. The schools I attended did as well. I received a BA in studio art from Carleton College and a MA from the University of Minnesota studying design and children’s literature in the Kerlan Collection.
Wood Cut
4) What motivates you to create and what does creating do for you?
I love the work I do as a natural science illustrator and as an author/illustrator for children.
5) Do you have a favorite piece/pieces that you've done?
Whatever I am currently working on is my favorite!
6) Who are your creative inspirations?
The animals, plants, environments around me … and the people I love. My sculptor Grandmother, Cornelia Runyon, was an early inspiration. I treasure the two sculptures of hers that I own.
To see more of Anne’s work visit:
