Everyone has a favorite picture book from their childhood. But have you ever wondered at how these gorgeous books are created? The Art of Children’s Books: Inspiration to Illustration is an art exhibit offering a behind-the-scenes look at the art, design, and production of illustrated books. It presents a wide variety of art techniques and styles—from the witty digital art of Sara Varon to the soft classicism of Donna Diamond, and beyond.
Kris Waldherr, owner and curator of the Brooklyn studio-gallery, says “”My first job in publishing was as a picture book designer. So many people seem to be interested in making children’s books these days—my intent with this exhibit is to offer a look at how these books are made.” Waldherr is also an author-illustrator of many books; she will be displaying watercolor paintings from her picture book Harvest in the exhibit. The show is co-curated by Aram Kim, a children’s book illustrator and etcher.
The opening reception for The Art of Children’s Books: Inspiration to Illustration takes place on Saturday, March 12, 1 – 4 pm. Admission is free and children are welcome. The exhibit will be up until the end of May. Books and prints featuring art from the exhibit will also be available for sale. Future events coinciding with the exhibit include a children’s art workshop by Inkblot author Margaret Peot and meet-the-author book signings.
Kris Waldherr Art and Words gallery is located at 1501 Newkirk Avenue, one block from the Q and B subway station. To learn more about this event and others, visit ArtandWords.com/events.html or call 347-406-5811.
About the participating artists:
Donna Diamond’s (TheArtofDonnaDiamond.com) art explores the boundaries of painting and collage and incorporates the use of modern technology. Her recent wordless picture book The Shadow uses art alone to unfold a mysterious narrative.
Aram Kim (AramKim.com) is a children’s book illustrator at work on her first picture book, Whale in the Forest. She was born in Ohio but grew up in South Korea before returning to the United States to attend the School of Visual Arts.
Margaret Peot (TheInkblotBook.com) is a painter, printmaker, costume maker, and writer. Her new book Inkblot: Drip, Splat and Squish Your Way to Creativity offers children and adults a way to unleash their artistry.
Amy Saidens (AmySaidens.com) has had her digital art published internationally. She has illustrated several themed pop up books incorporating paper dolls for children.
Sara Varon (Chickenopolis.com) has created illustrations for the New York Times, Nickelodeon, and other clients. Her graphic novel Bake Sale is about a cupcake who longs to travel abroad to meet a foreign pastry.
Kris Waldherr (KrisWaldherr.com) is an author, illustrator, and designer whose art has been exhibited in the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Her most recent book is Doomed Queens.