Member Spotlight: Frané Lessac

1.02.22

We are thrilled to share our February Member Spotlight features award-winning author and illustrator Frané Lessac, who recently showcased four decades of her original artwork in the exhibition: Frané Lessac Retrospective: The Art of the Story, 50 Books in 40 Years at a Fremantle art gallery!

Frané Lessac is an author and illustrator and has created illustrations for more than fifty books. Frané has served on the executive committee of the Australian Society of Authors (ASA), was the inaugural West Australian Regional Advisor for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and is presently the (PAL) published member's advisor. She was the WA State Ambassador for the National Year of Reading and currently serves as an Ambassador for Room to Read and Books in Homes. Frané is a recipient of the Muriel Barwell Award for Distinguished Service to Children's Literature. Frané is currently serving on the board of The Literature Centre. Her most recent book is Our Country, Ancient Wonders, written by Mark Greenwood and published by Walker Books Australia.

What inspired you to begin writing and illustrating?

When I first moved to the Caribbean island of Montserrat, I discovered that the island's library was poorly stocked. Children had little in the way of picture books, especially books where they could identify themselves. I decided to create a picture book that would connect the children with their own rich culture and their unique place in the world. In my book, a young narrator describes how he returns to Montserrat where he was born, bringing along his friend. Together the two children explore the wonders of the world around them, from the black sand beaches to the rainforest, learning about the fruits the markets and enjoying the delights of the island's culture. My Little Island was published nearly 40 years ago, and it's still in print. Over the last four decades, I have continued to create stories that celebrate, empower, and inspire young children to discover their heritage and cultures that exist outside of their own.

What does it mean to you to be celebrating the release of your 50th book with the Retrospective exhibition of your work?

My Retrospective showcases the original artwork from 50 of my books published over the last four decades years. Putting together the exhibition made me realise how far I've come. Each book is always a challenge. When I look around the exhibition, the sense of accomplishment hits home. To see one's life’s work in sequential order was uplifting and makes me immensely proud. It shows my progression as an artist for the first time and is an opportunity for visitors to look back at a body of work produced over the many years. The exhibition was also a timely opportunity as it coincided with the release of my 50th book. The opening of the exhibition doubled as a book launch celebration. Our Country, Ancient Wonders, written by Mark Greenwood and published by Walker Books Australia, takes readers on a journey across Australia to marvel at our unique natural treasures and ancient wonders.

What do you know now that you wish you'd known at the beginning of your writing and illustrating journey?

I wish I had joined professional organisations like the ASA and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) sooner!! I knew nothing about the industry when I began my publishing journey. It's the best way to keep informed about the industry. I've made firm friends for life and enjoy the generous support of a network of like-minded people. Our creative community in West Australia overflows with friendship and encouragement for each other - it's genuinely a supportive family of creative colleagues.

Which Australian authors or illustrators have been influential for your writing practice and career?

My favourite childhood artists inspire me: Gauguin, Rousseau and Matisse. Gauguin's island sojourn, Matisse's intricate patterns, colour and composition and Rousseau's primitives. Growing up close to the art museums of New York City, I was blessed that I had the opportunity to view the original paintings. When I moved to Australia, I discovered the genius of Shaun Tan, the humour of Alison Lester, and the craft of Jeannie Baker. And last but not least, I’m in awe of my author husband Mark Greenwood and his passion for writing and curiosity. We’re published fourteen books together and he’s always discovering book ideas for us to create

The Retrospective exhibition is available to view on Frané's website: www.franelessac.com