Lighting Up the Imagination

I illustrated this cover for Ladybug Magazine, a literary magazine for young children.
When I received the brief to depict a playful city construction site, I imagined children tending to the stars—

fairy lights on a nighttime city stage—and the moon, like stage lighting.

Once these little caretakers finish their work, a Broadway show begins,

with children singing to the stars and the moon.

✦ Inside the Book

In this whimsical world, children ride a lift basket suspended from a crane, painting the moon and stringing up stars like holiday lights.
It’s a city under construction—but for starlight and stories, not steel and glass.
The whole scene plays with the idea that the night doesn’t just happen—it’s built with care and imagination.

Starry Night

I used soft lighting, deep shadows, and warm orange tones to contrast the cool night sky.
Tiny glowing stars float in midair, cranes stretch high into the sky, and every character is absorbed in their task.
The details are playful but purposeful—each one meant to spark a little curiosity, and a lot of wonder.

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✦ Author’s Note

"Someone’s gotta turn the stars on — might as well be us."

— Annie

Whimsy wanted?
Let’s create picture-book magic together.

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ANNIE WON'S ILLUSTRATION

Tiny tales, tender colors, timeless charm.