Unlike most illustrators of the time, Rose O’Neill was
self-taught, learning how to draw human form by copying works from
her father’s library. She also drew live models, usually family
members, and even practiced drawing her own image in the mirror.
Rose knew little about commercial art, and she entered the
profession at a time when most illustrators were male.
O’Neill’s appeal was due to a combination of her sense of humor and
her romantic nature. It didn’t hurt that she could work quickly and
meet deadlines. Rose’s output was prolific. Her tool of choice was
pen and India ink, and she specialized in romantic scenes, family
life, and comedic situations.
Unlike most illustrators of the time, Rose O’Neill was
self-taught, learning how to draw human form by copying works from
her father’s library. She also drew live models, usually family
members, and even practiced drawing her own image in the mirror.
Rose knew little about commercial art, and she entered the
profession at a time when most illustrators were male. 
