"The Sick Bug Goes to School" wins a Moonbeam Award!

It is with great excitement that I share with you that my recent book titled "The Sick Bug Goes to School" was awarded a silver MoonBeam award this past week.  Susie and I are honored that the book was chosen amongst so many other wonderful books.  Presented by Jenkins Group and Independent Publisher magazine, the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards are designed to bring increased recognition to exemplary children’s books and their creators, and to support childhood literacy and life-long reading. Awards are given in 38 categories covering the full range of subjects, styles and age groups that children’s books are written and published in today.

WAMdemonium!

My view of the Weisman building!

With a crispness in the air, another fun time was had street painting this past weekend.  This time it was for the grand reopening of the famous Frank Gehry designed Weisman Art Museum in Minneapolis.  With the museum having been closed the last year for an addition on the building, there was lots of excitement in the air as the gala arrived Sat night!  This piece is a 3D stylized image of downtown minneapolis and its riverfront.  The image is on two separate planes and in total was 10'x16'

Great time at Target Children's Book Festival

Thanks to everyone who came out last weekend for the Target Children's Book Festival at Hyland Park in Bloomington!  It was great seeing everyone come out (even though it was super hot) and support both Susie and I with out book.  It is really wonderful to have such great friends and family!  Here are a few shots from our time on stage!

Pastel study with amazing new surface!

After many years working in Pastel outside for street paintings, I have decided to bring it into the study and work with the medium smaller scale.  It has been a rather interesting process since most of the times I do not create images in pastel that are smaller than 10ft x 16ft.  So doing studies with pastel at 18"x24" is quite a change of pace.  But, I am enjoying it with an amazing product I found called "Unison Gator Premium Pastel Board" made by Richeson Art.  It is a great surface that comes either on heavy duty watercolor paper or applied to a acid free gator board.  It seriously is like painting on sandpaper and is fantastic.  The image I did here is a hour and a half study of "Boreas" by Waterhouse and loved the way the pastel took to the board and the effect it had.  It really held a lot of pastel and still is very workable.  I would highly recommend it if you are into pastels

Here's the finished sketch.  About 2.5 hours worth

Target Children's Book Festival-Bloomington

Coming up on Saturday September 10, 2011 join myself and many wonderful authors and illustrators as we bring fun and excitement to Hyland Park in Bloomington, Minnesota.  With a day worth of activities, it will be a great time to bring the family out for some wonderful readings and drawings!  I am honored to be one of the featured illustrators and will be on stage from 2:35-2:55 with my fellow cohort Susie Bazil as we present "The Sick Bug Goes to School"!  For more information, you can visit the Target Children's Book Festival website here  Hope to see you there!

Painting done for Minneapolis Institute of Art's "Art Perchance"

Well, another month seems to be flying by and before you know it, August will be here.  The great thing about that is coming up on Thursday, August 18, will be this years "Art Perchance" at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.  The Friends of the Institute hold this annual fundraiser to help raise money to bring kids to the museum and other worthy causes.  I am proud to say that I will again be joining the ranks of artists who have been juried into the show/fundraiser.  The piece that I will be donating is the "Arizona Blooms" piece that you see below (Of course it will be framed though by then).  Until then, I hope if you happen to be in Minneapolis that Thursday night, you will stop down to see some amazing work that will be auctioned off and won, and help support a worth cause!

DETAILS

"Art Perchance"

Thursday August 18, 2011

Minneapolis Institute of Arts

6-9pm

2400 3rd Ave South

Minneapolis, MN 55330

Website

Come and check out the many wonderful artists that have donated pieces to help out with this great fundraiser

MNSCBWI summer workshop

Hello Everyone.  I hope your summers are off to a great start so far.  I wanted to let you know about a workshop upcoming that I will be co-teaching with Andy Hueller this coming weekend in Eden Prairie, MN in conjunction with the Minnesota Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.  The info is as follows and hope to see you there!

Everything You Wanted to Know About Portfolio and Manuscript Prep (But Were Afraid to Ask)
Date: Saturday, June 18, 2011
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Place: Star Bank Community Meeting Room, 250 Prairie Center Drive, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Fee: $25 members, $35 non-members. Registration will be at the door and includes light refreshments.

The National SCBWI Summer Conference, Minnesota SCBWI Fall Conference and annual Mentorship program will be here before you know it, so it’s time to get those manuscripts and portfolios ready! Featuring presentations by author and writing instructor Andy Hueller and illustrator Shawn McCann, learn how to properly format your manuscript and illustrations. Attendees will have the opportunity to present their manuscripts or portfolios for an informal critique. This workshop is excellent for beginners and those looking to refine their work.

For more information, please download the flyer here

Artisphere 2011 in Greenville, South Carolina

Had another fantastic time in Greenville, South Carolina this past weekend at Artisphere!  Here is my piece that I recreated of artist Michael Madzo's "The Secrets that we gather" which was the festival poster image used.  Not only did the weather cooperate for the weekends piece, but was amazed how many wonderful people stopped by during the course of the festival.  Some of them even remembered the piece I created at last years event!  Thanks again Greenville for a fantastic time!

SEI Street Painting in Scottsdale, AZ

Had a great time in Scottsdale, AZ recently on a fun 3D street painting titled "Think Growth".  Not only was there perfect weather, but my brother Cory finally was able to see me working on a street painting live.   I am sure it was as exciting as I told it would be :)  He is pictured below with me on the finished piece!  More info on the piece here

Illustration Friday: Bicycle

This is an illustration I did titled "Plane-in-the-sky-cycle" from a poem about all types of bicycles!

The Worth of What You Do

Reading an article this morning, I noticed a post that mentioned a candidate slamming another candidate because they were "worth" 10 times less.  I understood that they were strictly talking about wealth(money), but is that "worth" simply based on wealth?  In todays world where most are concerned simply about themselves, it is refreshing to see how many people view their own wealth as what they do and not what they have.  To be able to help out in small ways, we often find they go the farthest.  For me, I don't have the money to be supporting all the causes or fundraisers I want, but thru things like projects with a purpose to simply having a conversation with an eager student who is interested in the arts, it is the simple things that you can do to make that difference.

This difference was also noted as I was preparing to do a short speech at my alma mater's(MCAD) scholarship luncheon this last week.  As I reflected on what it meant to me to receive the scholarship that allowed me to continue to study art, I was taken aback by all the people who have made a difference in my life that didn't provide financial support, but rather providing the knowledge and encouragement to pursue what I love.  To be able to have that network of people, both people you know and those who simply pass thru, provide the wealth of what they know and do is to me worth more than any amount of money could be.  Sure having cold hard cash is always great and you can do some amazing things with it, but in the end, money can not buy the happiness and "worth" that makes a person great.  I know I usually don't get into discussions or posts like this on my blog that often, but thru my career so far, I have been blessed to work with so many wonderful people that are making a difference with their personal "worth" that I felt it necessary to speak up.  As I end this, I will leave you with a project that I am extremely proud to be apart of, "Gregory's Paper Airplane".  A project where a young boy named Benjamin Sherman is not concerned about achieving the personal "wealth" that many people seek, but a "worth" of helping others.  May we all have the same drive and commitment to make us truly wealthy in life!

Grapevine Faith School Visits and Dallas Trip

Ben and I at the book signing at Mardels

Wanted to share some of the fun times I had when I recently went to Texas for some school visits and book signings recently.  During my trip I had a great time not only at Grapevine Faith Elementary school but also the Middle School.  Thanks to Mrs. Mitchell and Ms. Brewer for allowing me to visit the classes!  As you can see by the pics, there was lots of fun!  The trip itself was surrounding the book "Gregory's Paper Airplane" and the amazing author Benjamin Sherman(who is published already at the age of 9!).  I can't thank Jeff and Paige Sherman enough for the hospitality and fun time over my 5 days!

A few of my books were on display at the library!

Kids looking at some of the original Illustrations

A fun little Friday night project added images to Joe's closet Doors

To Dallas and beyond!

Well, it is hard to believe that we are only a week away from April, but with todays wintry mix, I am definitely looking forward to getting rid of winter for good.  With that though, the schedule has become a little bit hectic, which is good.  From School visits to books signings and more, the next month and a half should be a fun whirlwind of an adventure.  For those wondering where in the world to find crazy man Shawn, here are a few of the upcoming activities. Ohh and lake season is sooo close!  I can't wait to get out there and do some fishin and relaxing as well!

In the Dallas area from Wednesday March 23 thru Sunday March 27, 2011

Thursday, March 24
Location:  Faith Christian elementary school all day with "Gregory's Paper Airplane"
                 Book signing from 3-5pm after classes
                 Colleyville, TX

Friday, March 25
Location:  Faith Christian Middle School all day
                 Colleyville, TX

Saturday, March 26
Location:  Mardel
                 Book signing from 2:30-4pm  with "Gregory's Paper Airplane"
                 Hurst, TX


In Minnesota April 6-8, 2011


Foley, MN Artist in Residence
                Will be working with the students in Foley Elementary and St. Cloud schools in some fun art!

In California April 30-May 1, 2011

LA Times Festival of Books on the campus of USC Sat. April 30 and Sunday May, 1.  Our stage time is on Sunday if you can make it!  More info at LA Times FOB website

Illustration Friday-Stir

A fun image from "The Sick Bug" I did a little while ago.  Here the bugs are down in bugland stirring up the sickness's!

"The Sick Bug Goes to School" is headed to the LA Times Festival of Books!

It is with great pleasure that I announce the selection of "The Sick Bug Goes to School" to this years lineup of the LA Times Festival of Books to be held in April on the beautiful USC campus.  It is even more of an honor to be featured along with industry giants as R.L. Stine, Mo Willems, and Jarrett Krosoczka.  The full details will be posted soon at the LA Times FOB website soon, but until then, I will be anxiously awaiting the sun and surf!!!!!!!

New Book "Gregory's Paper Airplane"

It is with great pleasure that I announce another children's book that I have illustrated. "Gregory's Paper Airplane" is an inspirational story of one boys hope to help children in Cambodia.  Written by Benjamin Sherman, the story is one of heartfelt love for others and the desire to help.  I know that may seem like every other story, but one major fact I left out is that Benjamin is only 9.  Having started writing at the tender age of 5, it is amazing what he has accomplished at such a young age.  To say that Benjamin is going to have impact on this world is an understatement, and I am proud to have illustrated his very first book.  Not only is the story great, but the purpose behind the book is wonderful as well.  Please take the time to learn more about this wonderful project and help spread the word!  Plus, if you order the book from the website, you will get it signed by the author himself!

"Gregory's Paper Airplane"

Here is a little overview for the book is as follows:

An inspirational children’s story... ...written by a child... ...to help other children. After learning about underprivileged children in Cambodia, Gregory's heart is troubled. He decides to take action and help in the best way he knows how... A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book will go towards Agape International Missions (Agapewebsite.org), a not-for-profit organization who’s mission is to prevent child sex trafficking in Cambodia and to restore hope to its victims through holistic aftercare; and to International Justice Mission (IJM.org), a not-for-profit human rights agency that secures rescue and justice for victims of slavery and other forms of violent oppression, and helps them heal within their own communities in Cambodia and other countries in the developing world.

Thanks to you 2010!

Well, I guess it has come down to tonight and tomorrow for the last hurrah for 2010. I have to say that I have been very blessed this year with wonderful work both in the illustration field and also the street painting. I know I have kind of slipped on the blogging lately, but am hoping to make a new fresh start of it in the new year! So with that, I hope everyone has a magnificent start to 2011 and look forward to what the new year has to offer!

Sarasota International Chalk Festival

Art For After Hours Final Street Painting "Skullduggary"
by Artists Shawn McCann, Anthony Cappetto, and Michael Macaulay

Its hard to believe that it has been a week since I was enjoying the beautiful weather and friendly atmosphere of the Sarasota International Chalk Festival. Having been my first time to a major chalk festival, it was a bit overwhelming to have so many street painters all in one location. I wish I had had more time to visit and watch so many talented people work, but we had our own street painting to create and so was kept quite busy with our huge 20' x 45' street painting. With the help of fellow Art for After Hours street painters Anthony Cappetto and Michael Macaulay, we worked over the course of 4 days to create a halloween themed "skullduggery" that was both intense and delightful to the visitors. Along with our piece, there were a total of 2 other exhibition pieces (large group paintings) and over 250 individual pieces. The following images are just a taste of what so many talended and amazing artists brought to the streets of Sarasota, Florida! Also there is special thanks that must be given to Denise Kowal for all of her hard work and dedication to make this years chalk festival such a huge success!







Tracy Lee Stum hard at work!

Edgar Muller working on his piece

Anthony, Michael, Shawn, and Rod from Art for After Hours

"The Sick Bug Goes to School" and Sarasota Chalk Festival

It's hard to believe that fall is in full swing already, but that is good news for a lot of fun things going on in the studio and beyond. The first bit of news that I am happy to share is the soon to be release of my newest children's book titled "The Sick Bug Goes to School". The second book in the series, "The Sick Bug Goes to School" deals with the things kids face when going to school and illness. As this little snippet shares, I think you will quite enjoy the second book from Susie and I.

The Sick Bug returns in this outrageously silly sequel to the award winning children's tale "The Sick Bug". In the charming follow-up, the Sick Bug has his sights set on an elementary school classroom where he and his bug friends take advantage of some ideal germ-spreading opportunities! It will take one observant student and his clever teacher to help the other children foil the Sick Bug's plans to spread! Combining engaging dialogue and eye-popping illustrations with everyday classroom-appropriate hygiene lessons, "The Sick Bug Goes To School" is destined to be another hit in schools and at home!

The book itself is to be out by next week (first of November) and we are looking forward to the release party which is happening on Wednesday November 17th at Mama's Happy in Mound. Here is the full info

"The Sick Bug Goes to School" release party
Wednesday November 17, 2010
6-9pm
Mama's Happy
2217 Commerce Blvd
Mound, MN 55364
www.mamashappyonline.com


Secondly, if you happen to be in the Sarasota area in Florida over the next week, be sure to come by the first international street painting event in the US! The Sarasota Chalk Festival is going to be a blast and I am so excited to be one of the featured artist working together with Anthony and Michael to create a huge 20' x 40' street painting! Pictures will definitely be posted as the work is being done! For more information go to Sarasota Chalk Festival website

Thanks and hope everyone has a safe and happy Halloween!!!

Illustration Friday: "Transportation"

Sometimes we run a little late for our transportation to school! As for this illustration, it is from my forthcoming childrens' book titled "Gregory's Paper Airplane"

Illustration Friday "Beneath"

This is an illustration from my book titled "Staarabu was Wise, Anana was Gentle". This image is of Staarabu down beneath the ground with his brothers and sisters!

********Profits from the sale of "Staarabu was Wise, Anana was Gentle" will be dedicated to a homeless shelter in Minneapolis, Minnesota called Simpson Housing Services.

Minnesota SCBWI Conference

Image by Sharon Wagner


For those of you who have not signed up yet for this falls Minnesota Society of Children's Book Writer's and Illustators, the time is running low as the event is in a mere two weeks time! I know it is a little bit of money to attend, but it is totally worth the investment to be around such like minded and career valuable information. If you are interested in attending, the information on the conference is below. Also you can click here to get the information and registration form from the MNSCBWI website.


Conference Fees
Register postmarked by September 17:
$125 SCBWI members, $125 nonmembers
Register postmarked after September 17:
$150 SCBWI members, $175 nonmembers
Students (I.D. required at check-in): $50

Keynote Speakers
Jay Asher has lived most of his entire life either in Los Angeles county or on California’s central coast. He’s worked at an independent bookstore, a chain bookstore, an outlet bookstore, and two public libraries. But before that he worked at a shoe store, a trophy shop, and an airline. His very first writing award earned him a free fruit smoothie every day for an entire year. Mmmmm.... He is the author of Thirteen Reasons Why, a New York Times best-selling young-adult novel.

Susan Marie Swanson is a poet and picture book author fascinated by the place where her understandings about poetry, children’s own writing, the lives of children, and children’s literature converge. Her awards include fellowships in poetry from the Bush Foundation, the McKnight Foundation, and the Minnesota State Arts Board, as well as the McKnight Artist Fellowship in Children’s Literature. Her book, The House in the Night received the 2009 Caldecott Medal.

Scheduled Speakers
• Jay Asher, Author
• Heather Alexander, Editor
• Kristin Ostby, Editor
• Judy Sue Goodwin Sturges, Agent
• Susan Marie Swanson, Author
• Anne Ursu, Author
• Jordan Brown, Editor

Street Painting shots!

I know I haven't been the most keen on keeping up with the blogs lately, but hopefully will keep them up to date a little bit better upcoming. So, if you have been wondering what has been going on lately, here is a sneek peek of some of the past events that I have been fortunate to be apart of! The first image is from the 3D Street painting I did at Deluxe Corporation in late July. It was for their Social Media event and was a blast! The other two images are from the 3D street painting I did at Bismarck's Capital A'Fair in August. The weather was hot, but everyone there made it another wonderful event! Hope you like the shots!

Projects Galore!

Well to say that my posts have been a little sparse lately, would be an understatement. The good news is it is not due to a lack of interest, but rather a lack of time to do so. The month of July has definitely been one that seems to be disappearing faster than I am typing this message. The good news is that many wonderful things are going on and couldn't be happier with the direction everything is going.

So lets start off with the street painting. It has been the best summer by far for my street painting ever since I got hooked up with Art for After Hours out in NY. They have really been able to provide some really exciting street painting opportunities. If you were not able to check out my posts on Facebook and Twitter about the Taste of Minnesota street painting that I worked on over the July 4th weekend, I have posted a few pictures here. Along with this project, I am anxious for a the number of upcoming street paintings that will be here before I know it!

In other studio news, I am continuing to work on a couple of childrens books and am hoping to finish those by the end of next month. Can't wait to show you the results!

And to finish off this post, I have to mention the great time I had at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts Bike Night last Thursday night. The weather was fantastic and it was so much fun seeing how much everyone enjoyed the 2 huge 8 ft by 9ft bike backdrops that I created just for the night! There are a couple of pics of the finished pieces at the front of the post, but the best images are from the Flickr site that the MIA has for the event. You can check them out here

Thanks and look forward to sharing some more pics with you soon of the upcoming street paintings and childrens books