Frequently Asked Questions

I never thought I'd need to make one of these pages, but I am starting to get asked these questions a lot.

  • Why do you go by "Dorothy T. Rose" now?
    Yes, "Dorothy" is not my given name. However, for Interent purposes, I prefer the anonymity that a nickname and merely my last initial grant. I use the name "Rose" so that there is a tie-in to my webpage and because I don't like competing with Wizard of Oz merchandise (Dorothy T-shirts) on search engines.

  • Why do you spell "color" with a U, and "specialize" with an S?
    Because I can and I like to. It is not an incorrect spelling. Any good dictionary will list it as an accepted British spelling. If it really bothers you a lot, just think of it as a foreign word, like "couleur" and "spécialiste", and be glad I don't use "gaol" and "aluminium".

  • Will you give art lessons?
    Not likely, for a number of reasons. However, if I have time and you're willing to work around my schedule, I might give you some pointers or critiques.

  • Are your characters' faces based off of yours?
    *shakes head in amusement* Except in the case of Kelly Devoi, any similiarities to persons living or dead, fictional or non-fictional, are entirely coicidental. Kelly, however, is intentionally based off of the way I look and my sense of style.

  • What is illustration?
    From our favourite source, the indisputable Wikipedia: "An illustration is a visualization such as a drawing, painting, photograph or other work of art that stresses subject more than form. The aim of an illustration is to elucidate or decorate textual information (such as a story, poem or newspaper article) by providing a visual representation."

  • What is graphic design?
    Again, from Wikipedia: "The term graphic design can refer to a number of artistic and professional disciplines which focus on visual communication and presentation. Various methods are used to create and combine symbols, images and/or words to create a visual representation of ideas and messages. A graphic designer may utilize typography, visual arts and page layout techniques in varying degrees to produce the final result of the project. Graphic design often refers to both the process (designing) by which the communication is created and the products (designs) which are generated.
    Common uses of graphic design include magazines, advertisements, product packaging and web design. For example, a product package might include a logo or other artwork, organized text and pure design elements such as shapes and color which unify the piece. Composition is one of the most important features of graphic design especially when utilizing pre-existing materials or using diverse elements."

  • Don't illustration and graphic design naturally go hand in hand?
    Yes and no. While illustration does incorporate some of the theories of design in order to create a pleasing image, it worries about nothing other than the image. Graphic design seldom creates images. Usually, it uses the images that were created through illustration. Graphic design does not have to use images at all. It can use just text and colours.

  • Do you do graphic design?
    Nope. Not if I can avoid it. The only designing I do is for my own uses, such as my own website, business cards, brochures, etc.

  • Why won't you do design for other people?
    Because it is difficult for me and I don't want to. It does not come as naturally and easily for me as it does gifted graphic designers. Therefore, I have decided to let those who are good at it do it and I'll stick with what I'm good at: illustration.

  • Are you married?
    No.

  • Why not?
    Because I'm not.

  • Will you go out with me/my buddy/my buddy's buddy?
    No.

    Other Important Questions

  • May I download/save your pictures for use as a background/screensaver for my own personal computer?
    Sure. Just please don't remove the watermark and/or signature. Thank you. ^_^

  • May I download/save/print your lineart pictures for the purpose of adding colour?
    Definitely yes! ^__^ Be my guest! All I ask is that you remember that the copyright to the lineart still belongs to me and...can I see it when you're done? Please??? Thanks! ^__^

  • May I make an avatar/icon from your art?
    That's fine, so long as it is 100 x 100 pixels or smaller. Please do not use my art to make avatars or icons to represent your character unless it is artwork that you commissioned and don't post the icons for others to use.

  • May I use your art for school?
    Yes. Section 107 of the 1978 Copyright Act, aka. the doctrine of "fair use", protects "reproduction by a teacher or student of a small part of a work to illustrate a lesson". For more information on fair use, see (link).

    In addition to the protections granted by law, I also allow my art to be reproduced in the process of learning to draw. This includes tracing, using a grid, and freehanding. That's basically how I learned to draw, so knock yourself out. I don't mind if it's posted online, either, but credit must be given to me for the original art and concept. Keep in mind that this reproduction is not protected by law. Therefore, selling prints of the student's reproduction is not legal. I do not mind, however, if the student sells the original reproduction of my work. If in doubt, just ask.

  • May I download/save your pictures for any other use?
    That depends on your definition of "other use". Printing, selling, posting my pictures on the web, etc., is an infringement of copyright. For all purposes other than those listed above, please obtain special permission. I am not mean or unreasonable. I just don't like theft.

  • Can I draw your characters?
    Please do!!! I love fanart. I love making it and I love receiving it. Do remember that the copyright to the character belongs to me, so, you know, give me the credit. However, what you do with the character is your artistic liberty so long as its not inappropriate. Again, if you please, may I see it? ^_^