An Indelible Imprint

Books by Mark Clarke, Illustrated by Kelsi Lee Lytle

Article Written by Megin Potter

In two children’s books written by Mark Clarke, bright watercolor illustrations by Greenfield artist Kelsi Lee Lytle draw you further into charming stories that cultivate curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world.

There’s a Ghost in My Closet (2023) is a relatable tale for children ages 7+, that follows a young girl (whose imagination runs wild!) and her older sister as they learn that no matter what vivid thoughts are floating around in their heads, there is an explanation for everything that goes bump in the night. 

The story’s characters remind Kelsi of her own experiences growing up in Saratoga Springs with two older brothers, she said. 

“Illustrating this book was a groundbreaking experience for me,” said Kelsi. “It was my first time illustrating a children’s book, collaborating with an author from start to finish, and getting my feet wet.” 

The book’s rhythmic storytelling shares an uplifting story about coming out of your shell with the help of someone you love, overcoming your fears (whether real or imaginary), and confronting whatever is lurking in those dark, scary places. The positive message and colorful imagery invite children to acknowledge their feelings, help them to talk about what they’re afraid of, and encourage them to connect with someone who cares. 

A Grand Adventure 

For her second collaboration with author Mark Clarke (a retired public-school teacher), Kelsi completed the graphite full cover jacket of “Pooh: A Three-Act Play” (2023). The following year, the immersive HUGE (2024), was published, a book for children ages 8 to 12, that amplifies the excitement of exploring a new place with synonyms that are bigger than big, larger than large, they’re HUGE! 

The iconic imagery of the Big Apple’s bustling Times Square, towering Empire State Building, and vibrant Yankee Stadium are among the exhilarating sights you’ll visit in HUGE, a book that celebrates the city’s inherent beauty and history with watercolor illustrations painted in the style of famous artists including Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Robert Indiana.

Stretching her imagination with full-color illustrations that use an exaggerated perspective, Kelsi takes you on a great adventure around New York City through the eyes of a child. 

Both books, There’s a Ghost in My Closet and HUGE, are available on Amazon. 

More Indelible Than Ink

As a kid, Kelsi enjoyed spending time in the library, looking through picture books and seeing the simple (but memorable) collages made from handmade cut paper by writer and illustrator Eric Carle for his classic children’s book, The Very Hungary Caterpillar. 

In her own work, Kelsi creates distinctive, engaging, and educational illustrations for children that are a stark departure from the realistic detailed portraits that she burns for her Etsy shop, Imbued Ink. For more than a decade, Kelsi has been completing hand drawn and painted portraits, as well as meticulously detailed wood-burned works of art. Wood burning, or “Pyrography”, is a time-honored art form. By “writing with fire” Kelsi creates intricate designs, patterns, and custom pieces for clients. Within her portfolio of work are inscribed lyrics, tabletops, wall plaques, and the Legacy Society Donor Board at Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs. 

Imbued Ink’s one-of-a-kind portraits, etched in wood and sealed, capture the life and character of their subject. Skillfully crafted, these uniquely organic expressions of people, animals, and the natural world are full of rich texture and depth, making them meaningful gifts that will last for generations. 

For more information and custom orders, follow @imbuedink on Facebook, @imbued_ink_customs on Instagram, @imbued_ink_arts on YouTube. and visit www.imbuedink.com