About Me
Welcome to my creative space. My name is Anne Catharine Blake, also known as A.C. Blake in the literary world and Cathy to my friends. I’m a freelance author, illustrator, and professor of visual storytelling.
I am married with two cats and split my time between my two homes, South Carolina and Ontario, Canada.
I have been a life long learner and along the way have been fortunate to study at esteemed institutions:
- Emily Carr University on Granville Island: Studied Book Illustration/Design
- Syracuse University: MA in Illustration
- University of Hartford: MFA in Illustration- terminal degree
My academic journey has allowed me to mentor and inspire the next generation of storytellers, sharing my passion for the arts and the importance of narrative in understanding our world.
.
Teaching and Mentoring
As a professor, I’ve had the opportunity to teach both online and on-ground. My passion for teaching extends beyond the classroom as I actively engage in curriculum development and mentoring, benefiting students and faculty alike.
- Visual Storytelling and Storyboarding
- Global View of Illustration
- Special Topics (Multi-Faceted Illustration Project)
- 2021-Present SME (Subject Matter Expert) Writing Curriculum
Achievements
- SHOWS: Museum of Illustration, Society of Illustrators, NY
- deGrummond Collection of Children’s Literature, The University of Southern Mississippi
- Anne Catharine Blake papers- book dummies, manuscripts, letters, and sketches
- Bethlehem Writers Roundtable Short Story Award: Honorable Mention
- Title of Professor, Art Institute of Pittsburgh-Online Graphic Design Department, PA
- Certificate of Achievement—Highest Success Rate, Art Institute of Pittsburgh, PA
- 2011 Faculty Spotlight, Art Institute of Pittsburgh-Online Division
- 2009 Judge, Society of Illustrator’s Zankel Award
- 2008 Judge, Society of Illustrator’s Annual Scholarship Competition
Professional Associations
Proud member of several professional associations:
- Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, since 1988
- Society of Illustrators, NY, Full Membership since 2006
- Sisters in Crime, Palmetto Chapter & National since 1980s
- South Carolina Writer’s Association
Presentations
It’s been an honor to speak at various events. And sharing my journey and insights from travel inspiration to the craft of writing and illustrating.
- Writing with Words and Picture
- Epic Cross-Country Adventure – Trains, Planes & Automobiles
- Antarctica: Journey to the White Continent