Writing/Illustrating A Book & Figuring Out Life After Art School! // Bookish Art Vlog!

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 20 ส.ค. 2024
  • Hello friends!
    I hope you're all doing very well!!!
    Since graduating from art school as an illustration and writing student, I've been trying to figure out life as a graduate. I've also been asking myself, what illustration work do I want to do? Where do I want to go? Who do I admire? Why should I follow my heart? Can I really do this? Is it worth trying?...All very big questions to ask yourself, which I know many people struggle with, including me! I thought it might be beneficial to talk about, because I'm very passionate about this topic of "following your heart" :)
    This vlog is also an announcement of sorts, letting you know my plans for the future, and the fact that I'm WRITING AND ILLUSTRATING MY OWN BOOK!!!!! aaahhhh scary!
    I've known since I was a kid that one day I would TRY and write/illustrate my own story, and that day has finally arrived! To say I'm nervous/excited would be the greatest of all understatements! I don't know where this story will end up, but I'm so glad I can bring you all on this writing and illustration journey with me!
    Thank you for all the support you show me, and I wish to return that support back to you! So if you're reading this, this is your sign to follow/keep following your heart and pursuing your dreams! :)
    Sending my very best wishes to you all!
    Your friend,
    Carolyn (and Willow) Marie :)
    P.S. Willow says she's very happy to meet all of you!!!
    My Social Media: CarolynMarieReads
    ***My Website/Portfolio - carolyncastagn...
    ***Art/Book Instagram - / carolynmariereads
    ***GoodReads - / carolynmariereads
    ***Business inquiries: carolyncastagna.artist@gmail.com
    ***My Etsy Shop (some sold out, but more still available!!!
    "The Red Rabbit" and Lewis Carroll are COMING SOON!!!) - www.etsy.com/s...
    ***Want to write to me or send something?
    Carolyn Castagna
    P. O. Box 773
    Greenlawn NY 11740
    United States
    **Please don't feel like you need to send me anything, but if you'd like to I would be honored!!!** :)
    ***About me -
    I just graduated from college at the Fashion Institute of Technology with my Bachelors of Fine Arts in Illustration with a minor in English/Writing.
    My greatest passion in life is combining my two loves, literature and art!
    Happy Reading :)
    #artvlog #bookshopping #writingvlog
  • บันเทิง

ความคิดเห็น • 82

  • @ronaldowilliams7456
    @ronaldowilliams7456 2 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    7:42 I feel so identified with this. Everybody just expects you to be "another brick in the wall". When I tell someone that what I want to do is to write, they simply see it as kind of a hobby. "Yes, but what about your career? What are you planning to focus on?" They say.
    We have nothing left but to "fight against the current", even if I don't like how that sounds.

  • @sarahsperusals
    @sarahsperusals 2 ปีที่แล้ว +39

    okay, really though, post grad life is so incredibly difficult and i applaud you for being so open about it. but i'm glad you're taking the steps to do what you truly want to do, and not getting sucked into a job that you don't want. your passion for illustration is so contagious and i can't wait to see your career blossom!! ❤

  • @nikkivenable3700
    @nikkivenable3700 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Oh, Carolyn, this was lovely. You are blessed to be able to follow your dreams! Most people graduate and must get a job or two in order to pay the bills, rent, student loans, etc. If one is able to do life the way you are, esp with a creative endeavor, you are very blessed! It's apparent that you also know this because you talked about all the people who are supporting you. My parents would have not been as supportive but it sounds like yours are wonderful. I will purchase everything of yours that comes to fruition and will gladly do so! Edit: Willow is everything! Aww, when she was falling asleep---there are fewer things better than a dog. We just put my rescue Greyhound down a month ago and as of today it still feels like it's day 1.

  • @eleanorjones8613
    @eleanorjones8613 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Carolyn. Oh my goodness.
    I’m a junior in high school. I am not at your stage in life. But geez, this video has to be one of the most relatable and tug at my heartstrings I have seen in a long time.
    You are a kindred spirit. I am nearly crying while typing this. I’m not always the best at getting my opinions across but your words on creativity and honesty about profession and passion have made a profound impact on me.
    There are times when I feel, although we haven’t met, that your words and work have created a friendship between the two of us. And if that is creepy coming from a complete stranger, that is more than valid.
    But your work and person has truly effected and I appreciate it so, so much

  • @mattkean1128
    @mattkean1128 2 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    I could spend all day in the art and book stores I'll absolutely buy your book; I love your book taste and your art. I adore that era of children's books, illustrations and all. I think of the success of something current like The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse and daydream about making something that catches fire like that.

  • @MilenaReads
    @MilenaReads 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Willow falling back a sleep was just the cutest thing ever. Excited to follow your journey with everything that you’re doing! 💜

  • @picketfenced5771
    @picketfenced5771 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Man you are the purest and most special TH-camr I am subscribed to. I could listen to you talk for hours cause I know you have something to say. It’s always so meaningful, and even if it’s silly, you’re just such a great genuine person. I was gonna say that I wish I had a friend like you to go to bookstores and have long talks over tea , but I guess you already are that friend with these videos of yours. Don’t give up and please continuing following your heart, cause with a heart like yours, YOU CANT GO WRONG!!

  • @kaylacurrently
    @kaylacurrently 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I think I fell in love with books as a child because of the illustrations! I have so many vivid memories just sitting in front of my bookshelf admiring the pictures.

  • @joshlarcombe7361
    @joshlarcombe7361 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This is very wholesome! There’s nothing I love hearing more than people following what they want to do, rather than just doing what they are expected to do. I’m in a similar position with my PhD, where people expected me to get a job instead. But I figure that there’s forever in which to sell my soul so I might as well do what I enjoy now! So, I really hope you have the best time doing your book 📖 - good luck!

  • @EmmaRiddle543
    @EmmaRiddle543 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    In Scotland we call meet the teacher night, Parents evening. I would love to be an illustrator/writer but I don’t know where to start. I’m still in high school so I have my whole life ahead of me, hopefully. 😊 good luck everyone.

  • @dancingpencil2
    @dancingpencil2 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This video was so inspirational for me. I am self-published author and self-taught artist and this video was full of insights into creating a picture book. And overall really interesting. Also very excited to see little Willow in the video. Love dogs, so looking forward to see more of content featuring little dog princess. 😆

  • @marthabalaag4254
    @marthabalaag4254 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This video is just pure warmth hug which is very timely since as a graduating student, I am somehow afraid of what I will do when I finished school. Its just wonderful to be reminded not to let myself gets stock in the pressure around me

  • @Emmareads15
    @Emmareads15 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Willow is absolutely gorgeous!!! She just wants to snuggle, so adorable!

  • @lalolanda8458
    @lalolanda8458 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    When I saw Willow, my rugged, muscular, potent heart... swiftly softened and melted! She's so beautiful and tiny I feel I want to protect her lol
    Also, for me it's always interesting to see others important battles with finding their right path in life... I'm always so astonished when they know exactly what they want to do with their future. My take is: that aspect is more important than any effort, once you know what your passion is, when conviction has set in, any effort becomes enjoyable.

  • @lydia3328
    @lydia3328 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I really really love hearing you rambling about your passion on painting, reading, illustrating. You reminds me focusing on what we really love is the most beautiful thing in our lives and I’m also working on it. REALLY Hope to hold your book in the near future! So excited.

  • @mizuki0328
    @mizuki0328 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was such a heartwarming post! And not just only because Willow is there (though she is an adorable puppy and I love her already)! Seeing you following your heart is so great! I hope your dreams come true and that you'll have the sucess you deserve. I'm sure we'll see great things from you one day! ;)

  • @jenniferwatson1944
    @jenniferwatson1944 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I totally understand why you want to work for yourself as a freelance artist/writer and not for a publisher. Although sometimes the pay can be good you may end up doing it for the pay and not because you enjoy it and get burnt out faster.
    Do it for yourself and do it because you enjoy it and enjoy people admiring your work and wanting to purchase it.
    You have inspired me in your videos to broaden my horizons when it comes to choosing books I want to read and your opening heart to heart inspired me as well so thank you for being open and honest about post school life.

  • @ShivangiBhasin
    @ShivangiBhasin 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I can’t articulate how much joy your passion for art and literature brings me. I’ve struggled with accepting my own passion for the same and seeing you thrive fills me up with hope🌸 can’t wait to see your projects come to fruition❤️

  • @kseniyao
    @kseniyao 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    as a fellow artist and poetry writer, I really relate to so much of what you said. Wishing you all the best in your art and writing vocation

  • @CathyFrontier
    @CathyFrontier 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It’s really scary deciding to be a freelancer! But it’s awesome, too - that’s when your creativity truly flourishes! Sounds like you’re really enjoying the creative process - so simply ignore all those prying questions about “the stable career.” You do you! Full support from this part of the world!

  • @LazyOverachiever
    @LazyOverachiever 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was such a heart-warming video to watch! I loved the open talk about that transition from school to suddenly work and your feelings of uncertainty of whether it will work out, but also confidence in knowing this is the path you want to do! As Robert Frost would say, you are taking the road less traveled by, and that makes all the difference. Also I LOVE the name Willow Marie! She is adorable!

  • @mymessynotebook2207
    @mymessynotebook2207 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I loved this vlog!!! I would love to see more of them.
    I totally get when you were talking about how your childhood has effected your writing! I feel the same way with mine especially when writing fables and stories for younger audiences. Can’t wait to see what you come up with!
    Hope you have a lovely day/night❤️

  • @Tania.atlasinajar
    @Tania.atlasinajar 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    it's been so long since I've been in an art store, you really can get lost looking at all the supplies in wonder, wanting to take everything with you lol. The big life questions of what to do after university, I totally feel you there carolyn. Loved your vlog as always. :)

  • @cottagegrandma
    @cottagegrandma 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I started my freelance career a month and a half ago as a freelance translator so I completely understand. It's scary but I'm trying to take baby steps to get where I want. Wish you all the best in your artist career!

  • @MintyPookieBear52
    @MintyPookieBear52 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I purchased Beatrix Potter from my local bookstore about two minutes ago! Thank you for showing that book. It sounds lovely ☺

  • @neverbored
    @neverbored 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    So cute! What is gonna be Willow's russian name? Since "willow" in russian is ива, I suggest Iva (ee-v-ah) Maria Karolinovna ☺️

  • @JamieAllOver31
    @JamieAllOver31 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    It's incredibly healthy and mature of you to recognize what you really what to do in life instead of just doing what you're "supposed" to do!
    Take it from someone who spent half a decade humming and aahing about what I really enjoyed doing for work.
    Do what you love, the rest will follow through 😉

  • @skaterbakes
    @skaterbakes 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Aww I have a King Charles cavalier too and they’re just the sweetest most loving companions ever! Willow is so adorable

  • @VP-tg8kd
    @VP-tg8kd 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    It is so exciting to see your post grad videos and it will be amazing to go along on your book writing & illustrating journey. I was always writing stories at about age 10/11 - I was inspired by a girl called Jayne Fisher who wrote The Garden Gang at a young age but I never took it forward - I can see you illustrating animal stories so well, especially hares, rabbits and mice - -it is so important to follow your dreams - you know where you fit no matter what anyone else says or expects. Willow is adorable, Good Luck and enjoy the experience, lots of love from the U.K. X

  • @taaptee
    @taaptee 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    this is so gorgeous i can't believe 😭💚

  • @tigestbelete9295
    @tigestbelete9295 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I am still watching the video and I usually don't comment on a TH-cam video. What you said about being a recent graduate and letting go of your old plan of going into publishing ( which is/was also kinda my plan) to pursue illustration on a freelance basis really resonated with me! And also motivated me to maybe also just let go of my fear. I am also a recent graduate who tbh just wants to write and tell stories and talk about them. But I am afraid of the unconventional path that is freelancing - or I put myself under pressure since I know that people expect a job at a company - or I feel pressured because most say I should at least try it but what if I know already what I like? So thanks for being so honest with your thoughts!

  • @carolinemarshall1669
    @carolinemarshall1669 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow. What a privilege it is to watch this video. Carolyn, you are so generous. I am so happy and excited for you and I can’t wait to have your book on my children’s bookshelf!

  • @jamesduggan7200
    @jamesduggan7200 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Another BookTuber whom I watch had a pet named Willow. It's a nice name, and I wish you and your pet many happy years together.

  • @kimbarbeaureads
    @kimbarbeaureads ปีที่แล้ว

    I went to Michaels today. I love looking at the pens and paint brushes. ❤️

  • @kiara8056
    @kiara8056 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This Vlog 💙 I agree with everything you said, I didn’t even try to figure out what to do after graduation I just went straight to post grad, though part of that is the requirement of my profession, I think it was also because I didn’t want to adult quite yet! 😂 I love this 💕 and Willow 😍

  • @veliaalmazan6999
    @veliaalmazan6999 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Willow is so cute! So sweet!

  • @readknitwithcheryl
    @readknitwithcheryl 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yes, we can forgive that sweet little pup. She is so adorable! Can't wait to read your book!

  • @jfogarty92
    @jfogarty92 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Willow is the absolute sweetest!

  • @jonatascardosodesouza8350
    @jonatascardosodesouza8350 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    The bright in your eyes says it all..

  • @doowopshopgal
    @doowopshopgal 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    So happy to see your life all come together. I waited so long for this video I was so upset we didn’t know where you were. But I won’t be upset anymore I know you have many things to do and we are so proud of you here on your book channel.

  • @lillieblack9702
    @lillieblack9702 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much for making this video Carolyn! I also graduated from college in the city this past spring and it's been my lifelong dream to become a writer and illustrator. I'm writing a fantasy book right now and I'm SO excited about it! I wish I could tell you everything about it; I think you'd really like it! I can't believe you're the same as I am with names - I've been writing stories for as long as I can remember and I've always kept long lists of my favorite names for my characters.

  • @sarahsperusals
    @sarahsperusals 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    WILLOW!!!!

  • @algorithmimplementer415
    @algorithmimplementer415 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I loved this video more than other videos, due to its message. And I am very happy for you. It’s really good to see you sharing so much of positivity, hope in this difficult time.

  • @starswnames
    @starswnames 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I missed you and your content sooooooo much! Thanks for inspiring me to read and fall in love with literature once again. I've read Netochka Nezvanova this year, influenced by your love for Russian literature, and I simply loved the book a lot! Anyways, hope you're doing well xoxo!

  • @valeriemaldonado1758
    @valeriemaldonado1758 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I can relate to the need to create all the time. Thank you for being so honest.

  • @sherylbrankley5847
    @sherylbrankley5847 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love Willow! 🐾🥰

  • @bethanne577
    @bethanne577 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’ve only stumbled upon your videos this week, and I’ve been binging them since! Each video makes me wish we were friends in real life! I too just graduated (with a BA in English), and as an NJ native, my goal was NYC publishing. But recently I’ve been reconsidering what I truly want to do, and freelancing is something I’ve thought about too. And as someone who is currently working on a novel,
    it was great and reassuring to hear you talk about your decision - I’m excited to watch your journey!
    I’m also a new dog mom, and raising a puppy is tough! Ginny and I are wishing you and Willow the best of luck ☺️

  • @fashionandbeauty07
    @fashionandbeauty07 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Carolyn, I am so excited for you! I would love to buy and read all the books you write! 💕💜📚 And Willow Marie is just the most precious little girl I’ve ever seen 💕🐶

  • @fae_mj
    @fae_mj 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just started watching and oh my gosh WILLOW!!!!!!!!!!! I AM IN LOVE. 💗

  • @marisawu3646
    @marisawu3646 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    You are so precious! Sending you lots of love from Italy 🇮🇹☺️💕

  • @mijdes856
    @mijdes856 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    How interesting! You are writing a book😍 it would be a good idea if you think of reading and recording it with your voice after publishing it❤️

  • @fabulaklub
    @fabulaklub 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much for this video. I have graduated university this June and I am also not employed in a way other graduates are. I want to be a freelance translator but it is hard to find companies or agencies that would give me jobs. I am not even self-employed yet because I cannot afford it yet with the amount of work that I am doing right now. I have a part-time job that is not translating just to make money but I believe I will be able to become self-employed and translate freelance, I just do not have many examples in my surroundings so it is hard sometimes to hear how much money somebody makes after university as a full-time employee at corporate and I am just trying to survive.
    I wish good luck to you! I am sure that with your passion you can achieve anything you like!

  • @ingridbuusschmidt769
    @ingridbuusschmidt769 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Im a bog Beatrix Potter fan too! Last year i read "Beatrix Potter: A Life" by Linda Lear. I really recommend it. It tells all about her art, inspirations and all of her childhood pets🦔🍂🐇🍁🐢

  • @veliaalmazan6999
    @veliaalmazan6999 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your journey sounds so exciting! I'm excited for you and look forward to following along as you share your journey. =)

  • @kaylastarr3822
    @kaylastarr3822 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Tbsi was such a lovely video❤️

  • @ReadingNymph
    @ReadingNymph 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good luck with everything! Willow is so cute

  • @rae_of_sunlight
    @rae_of_sunlight 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Such an exciting journey, and Willow is adorable! Best of luck with everything

  • @k____c___
    @k____c___ 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've been following your channel recently, and I'm really excited for this announcement! I'll be buying your book and putting it on the beautiful children's books shelf next to Folio Society's Alice in Wonderland, Wind in the Willows, and Winnie the Pooh 😃❤️

  • @laurajohnson3136
    @laurajohnson3136 ปีที่แล้ว

    Follow your bliss!!!

  • @catnap7579
    @catnap7579 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thanks for your wonderful content ♥

  • @vonhammershark
    @vonhammershark 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your videos are always so calming~ 💛

  • @anushkajoshi.1631
    @anushkajoshi.1631 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a book in my dream list now that is being written by you.

  • @DRmakeupgirl
    @DRmakeupgirl ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm a new subscriber and I'm loving your videos! Willow is the cutest! Could she be the main character in an upcoming children's book series " Willows World" perhaps?

  • @ReadwithStefani
    @ReadwithStefani 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have the same Strand tote, it’s amazing 😻

  • @dsalet1
    @dsalet1 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like your window.

  • @klaudia5977
    @klaudia5977 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    good luck with your story!🐻

  • @carbonc6065
    @carbonc6065 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    17:58 ... Me too ... I collect ALL things Winnie the Pooh!😁😁😀😀😁😁😀😀

  • @belenmartina8872
    @belenmartina8872 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I needed this so much thank you ❤️

  • @dibibliophile
    @dibibliophile 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I paused the vid for a while i thought i the bird is a kitten in my house 😂😂

  • @ArtBookshelfOdyssey
    @ArtBookshelfOdyssey 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Willow is SO CUTE!

  • @authorgreene
    @authorgreene 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    It's your channel; you ramble if you want!

  • @paulantonettebriones5308
    @paulantonettebriones5308 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    YAY FIRSTTTT!!! ✨

  • @polly2900
    @polly2900 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi , Willow is very cute.

  • @mrodriguez377
    @mrodriguez377 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hoping all the best for you

  • @maeiscompletelyfine
    @maeiscompletelyfine 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    💖💖💖

  • @MartinDSmith
    @MartinDSmith 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm sure your grandmother's love is resonating still.In fact you have a book right there with a dog named Willow appearing out of the blue on your grandmother's birthday.Maybe Willow gets to cause havoc at a wedding 😃

  • @maddieoggero5263
    @maddieoggero5263 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Willow🥺❤️

  • @MaryAmongStories
    @MaryAmongStories 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    💚💚💚

  • @WeirdTangent
    @WeirdTangent 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Store stocked? Video paused... brb.

  • @zubaerchaudhari8267
    @zubaerchaudhari8267 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey

  • @ghanshyamsingh3653
    @ghanshyamsingh3653 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    My name is GHANSHYAM...you pick the surname, I suggest 'Singh' but whatever you wanna!!! (My name has always interested my English teachers...lol...weird) The Story is I was born...then a genius...much cuter tho, then a fault got discovered...I was way too distracted by nature and arts...then some warnings but the downfall was eminent...anyway I got into depression...then engineering, the mechanical kind...now I create heavens in my head...books on each tree...garden of bookshelves...a universe to escape and find you as a friend...a reliable, creative, beautifully spoken friend. 🤔🥰😉
    It's difficult to look into reality but people like you, Emma and many others are helping. Everyday is a little bit more creative than last...a bit more easy...a bit more brave!!! I'm binging your channel after dreading that I might fall into abyss...then again here I'm...digging the abyss to entertain geniuses that inspire your AWE-STRIKING ARTWORK...I'm envious but also know it only gets better by learning from worthy friends and you totally sound like one!🤗😭😏❤👍

  • @buchdrache1409
    @buchdrache1409 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    ADOPT, DON'T SHOP!
    Jesus!