Background and Inspiration
This fan art piece is based on Vivabezene, a story my sister, Alissa, wrote when she was 13. She originally created Vivabezene as an entry for the Animax Awards, showcasing her creativity and love for storytelling. The story follows siblings Madeleine and Todd Mondegreen as they embark on a fantastical journey after Todd gets carried away by helium balloons at a carnival. The artwork captures a key moment—Madeleine, though reluctant, finally agrees to take Todd to the carnival for his birthday.
Concept and Composition
The illustration brings Madeleine and Todd to life with vibrant, exaggerated character designs highlighting the story’s lively and whimsical nature.
The Mondegreens: Todd & Madeleine
April 28, 2007
The characters stay true to their original descriptions:
- Todd: The ever-enthusiastic and hopeful younger brother, dressed in a simple t-shirt that reads “Bday boy,” blue shorts, and sneakers.
- Madeleine: The responsible yet begrudging older sister, donning her signature black jacket, striped socks, and skirt with a scalloped hem.
The title The Mondegreens refers to their last name, but may also be a play on the word “mondegreen,” describing misheard lyrics or phrases—a fitting nod to the story’s playful misadventures.
Artistic Process
I created this piece using digital illustration techniques with a clean, bold, and colorful style. I emphasized expressions and body language to convey personality—Todd’s excitement and Madeleine’s reluctant but inevitable agreement.
Reflection
Looking back at this fan art fills me with nostalgia. I likely created it around the same time my sister finished the story. Vivabezene holds a special place in my heart, not just as a childhood memory but as a testament to the storytelling passion we both share. This illustration isn’t just art—it’s a celebration of our imagination and the bond we built through the worlds we created together.