1 month to go

Well, it has come, the final month on the deadline for my newest childrens' book. I've got a lot of the color added in already on the illustrations and will be looking forward to finishing all the details soon. The book is titled "Staarabu was Wise, Anana was Gentle" and will be excited to share with you more about the book when I can. I know the book will be out in the spring, but not sure of the exact release date yet. Till then, here are a few sketches from the book. Hope you like

Illustration Friday: "Fast"

UMN Kerlan Collection celebrating 60 years!

One of the treasures that the University of Minnesota houses and we are fortunate to have in our backyard is the Kerlan Collection. Regarded as one of the worlds best children's literature research collections, the Kerlan offers a rare glimpse into the world of children's literature like none other. Whether it is a manuscript, drawings, original illustrations, or correspondence between editor and author, the Kerlan is a treasure trove of magic waiting to be discovered. Having visited the Kerlan a number of times, I would highly recommend it for anyone who loves children's literature or who wishes to learn more about it.

With that, I wanted to pass on the news that the Kerlan is celebrating their 6oth Anniversary with an exhibition that runs thru the end of Dec. Here is the info and hope to see you there! PS, if you click on the Elmer Anderson Library link, it will give you more visitor info.

60th Anniversary Exhibit

Elmer Anderson Library Gallery

University of Minnesota

222 21st Avenue South, Minneapolis

Dates: November 12, 2009 to December 31, 2009

Opening Reception w/special guest Leonard S. Marcus

November 6th 2pm

Great things brewing at CBIG MN

Between the show in Red Wing at the Depot, and numerous books that have come out lately by members of CBIG MN, there is no better time to check out their blog than now. Having been a member now for a number of years, it has been great getting to know all of the wonderful artists behind some of your favorite books. So if you get a chance, swing over there by clicking here and leave a note to say hi. I know everyone would love to see you stop by !

Illustration Friday: "Flying"

Don't you ever wish your bicycle could fly? This is an illustration about just that. Created for a poem titled "Two-Wheeler", this piece is called "Plane in the Sky Cycle"

"The Path to Forgiveness" on Reading Minnesota

There are many great blogs out there dedicated to the art of books, but one that I recently came across was not only exciting for it's content, but the fact it was solely about books created by Minnesotans. Reading Minnesota features adult and children's books written by Minnesota authors and illustrators and celebrates Minnesota Bookstores, reviewers, publishers and libraries. This wonderful site is the work of Beth Solheim, who herself is an author of the Sadie Witt mystery series. Thanks go out to all of her hard work and dedication in bringing the many talented authors and artists that reside in the state to her blog! To learn more about Reading Minnesota, click here or you can visit Beth's website here.

With that, I am also thankful that Beth has chosen "The Path to Forgiveness" written by Michele Deville and illustrated by myself to be featured on the site. You can check out the post here

Illustration Friday: "Germs"

click for larger image

In this Illustration, the sicknesses are brewing away in bugland! From the book I illustrated aptly titled "The Sick Bug".