Cacti Parti
This cheerful looking image was included in a primary literacy resource. It accompanied a writing task where pupils were given the title and a starter sentence which they then had to develop and expand upon, writing their own story to explain exactly what happens at the ‘Cacti Party’…
I was asked to produce a simple illustration showing a friendly but solitary cactus looking happy. The publishers didn’t want any more than that as they felt a more detailed illustration may impact the pupils’ responses.
However, after a great deal of soul searching and introspection, I realised that I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I didn’t include at least one type of party accessory. After further soul searching, I eventually settled upon a novelty hat as I felt this would help to convey a sense of fun. I mean, what kind of party would it be with out at least one party hat on display?
Luckily, the publishers came round to my point and opted to include the version complete with zany part attire. I think they must have been charmed by how darn cute that cactus looks in his jaunty little head piece. That being said, I did also have an edited, ‘Hat free’ version up my sleeve just in case they didn’t like my alteration…
