Hi fellow illustrators,

I now have a web site and get a lot of inquiries like the one I'm
posting here. If I had the time, I suppose I could spend all day
answering everybodies questions, but I don't have the time, as I'm sure
you don't either. Any recommendations on how to handle these without
being rude by not responding? Such as a canned letter, or a series of
links we can get together to give to the interested parties? Or offer
them to join Sci-art?  I'd appreciate any suggestions!

Lynne Larson

Letter to my email follows:

Hello there!  As a student at Southern Oregon University, I am currently

preparing my biology senior project.  This project consists of
researching biological illustrations and illustrators, as well as
readying my own portfolio.  If I could ask some questions concerning
your experience as an illustrator, it would be greatly appreciated!
        What medium do you most frequently use?  Do you feel that
airbrush and
computer generated graphics are the standard in scientific/biological
illustrations?  Do you believe that certain subject matter be
illustrated with a particular medium?  (example:  Botanical subjects
rendered in watercolor and chemistry models rendered by computer
generation)  Do you actively advertise your services?  Do you receive
ample attention by your web-site?  How long does it usually take you to
complete a finished illustration? Do you usually work with
familiar/similiar subjects that have become your speciality?  How did
you originally get started in illustrations?  Do you usually have your
work repreduced in textbooks, magazines, pamphlets, or another venue?
Are there any particular techniques that you find are especially useful
in portraying your specific subjects?  Finally, do you have any special
recommendations for preparing to enter the world of scientific
illustrators?
        Thank you for the time you took to read this, and thank you
especially
for any replies!!

                                             Sincerely,
                                            Tabitha Boone