The StoryBee Art Journey: Becoming a Digital Illustrator and Get Your Works Published

The StoryBee Art Journey is a comprehensive visual learning program designed to guide students (Grades 6–9, but easily adaptable for upper elementary or high school) from foundational drawing skills to creative mastery and portfolio development. Our curriculum is structured into three clear phases, each building upon the last, empowering students to grow technically, conceptually, and artistically.

Part 1: Foundations in Traditional Drawing & Visual Literacy

What students learn:
Core elements of drawing—line, shape, space, form, color, and texture—while developing essential observational skills.

Includes:

  • Module A: Observational Skills & Drawing Techniques (Classes 1–9)

  • Module B: Fundamental Drawing Techniques, Gesture & Figure Drawing (Classes 10–17)

  • Module C: Creative Exploration & Portfolio Development (Classes 18–27)

By the end of Part 1, students can confidently observe, draw from life, experiment with materials, and create original artworks based on personal themes. Below is a short version of our students’ learning guide.

Part 2: Digital Illustration & Art Principles

What students learn:
An in-depth exploration of visual design and illustration using digital tools. Concepts such as balance, rhythm, scale, depth, and unity are introduced and applied to composition and storytelling.

Skills gained:

  • Digital drawing & rendering

  • Design thinking

  • Conceptual layout & planning

  • Creative visual problem-solving

Students begin integrating their traditional art foundations with digital mediums while expanding their understanding of how professional illustrators build cohesive visual stories. Below are their learning materials offered free upon their enrolments.

  • A Young Artist's Guide to Visual Perception

    Volume 1

    By the end of this volume, readers will have gained an in-depth understanding of how we see the world and how these insights can be used to bring their art to life.

    Read

  • A Young Artist's Guide to Visual Perception

    Volume 2

    It aims to empower you with a deeper understanding of advanced visual perception concepts.

    Read

  • Design Principles for Young Artists

    Volume 1

    This volume offers the foundations of design – the basic principles, elements, and knowledge to shape those dreams into tangible realities.

    Read

Part 3: Advanced Digital Illustration & Art Portfolio Development

What students do:
In the final phase, students complete a portfolio of professional-quality illustration projects. Each student is given two picture book manuscripts to illustrate, allowing them to work on real-world, narrative-driven content that challenges both creative and technical skills. The best works will be invited to be published on www.storybee.space.

Outcomes:

  • A curated illustration portfolio

  • Deepened creative identity

  • Project-based experience (ideal for college prep or studio applications)

  • Readiness to present, publish, or pitch work to a wider audience

Why This Learning Path Works

  • Structured progression from traditional to digital

  • Emphasis on creative voice and real-world application

  • Visual storytelling meets technical refinement

  • Builds confidence, literacy, and long-term passion for art

The StoryBee Art Journey is ideal for:

  • Middle and high school art classrooms

  • Homeschool art programs

  • Creative enrichment centers

  • Pre-college illustration preparation