…is the name of today’s story at Fictive Dream.
Throughout the month of February 2023 I will be showing you illustrations I did for Flash Fiction February 2023 at Fictive Dream, an online magazine devoted to the short story.
Here’s the image editor Laura Black chose for this story, A Way, by Sarah Freligh.
And here is the artwork with the banner. Take a look at this image. And then…
Read the story at Fictive Dream.
Claudia McGill and Her Art World 
I enjoyed the short story and, having read it, I believe I see the influence of the wine in that burgundy area and the other colours are making me think of the fruity cocktails served by the mom and the loud shirts I imagine the golf pro wears.
I like the array of colors in this one, it’s a bit unusual, I think, in how they are arranged and what is next to what. That shade of maroon/burgundy/purply-red is one I usually don’t love, I feel it’s heavy, but here, with this group of colors, it has a whole other personality I hadn’t expected.
Thank you for reading the story, Laura, I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it. I love this particular illustration, and it was exactly that burgundy area that I felt made it right for A Way. Moreover, it’s vibrancy makes it perfect for opening the month. Thank you, Claudia. It’s wonderful to be collaborating again.
I am thrilled to be participating again in FFF and I like this image very much, partly because I don’t usually use much of the maroon color in my work, I think it can be heavy and dull. But in this composition it’s lively and sparks the other colors (suitable for wine!). I worked at a country club (as a lifeguard, though) for several years in college and the atmosphere is familiar to me.There can be A certain forced gaiety to it that this story shines a light on, one that doesn’t really cover up sadness.
Interesting idea of the forced gaiety in these types of venue. The other aspect that I like very much is the contrast of the bright colours with the squares and rectangles suggesting that everyone is trapped in a situation of their own making. Or, indeed, they face the collateral damage. Good to be working with you again, Claudia. It really is the highlight of the FD year for me. Thank you!
Sad and true. (K)
Flash Fiction February 2023 is off to a terrific start, the story and art are meaty and rendered well.
Thank you, Sarah. I hope you’ll find more to enjoy.