Pam Smy is a respected illustrator and academic whose work draws heavily on the observational studies that are contained within her sketchbooks usually of places and people.  The article, published as part of a research journal intellect, investigates and outlines the process she undertook when commissioned by David Fickling Books, London to create a version of the Green Man character in a novel written for children by the author, Linda Newberry, in 2010.

Pam Smy explains how her process of observational drawing was important to the development of the character and how it informed her own interpretation of the text.

How does the character of the sketches relate to the final illustrations?

Pam Smy created a range of observational studies of foliage and facial features to abstract representations in her sketchbook to explore how the Green Man integrates with natural elements.  Her sketchbook drawings are often a process of discovery.  She visited historical sites and ancient Green Man carvings to create a foundation for developing her finished work.

Smy blended various sketches to create a unified depiction of the Green Man. Her observational sketches from nature are detailed and accurate, combined with her imaginative interpretation.

Her sketchbook drawings are more experimental and transform into a final sketch by refining and integrating observational details. 

Are there any texts or stories you have encountered that relate to any of the drawings you have produced during this section of the course?

Not really, but I would like to explore observational and abstract drawings in my sketchbook like Pam Smy did and create my interpretation of text.