School is coming to a close and summer is just a few weeks away. Children will soon be out and about enjoying the warm and sunny days. However, just because there isn’t school, doesn’t mean students can’t continue their education with a bit of reading.
Markeim Arts Center is having its unique summer exhibition, this time featuring children’s book illustrations in “Draw Me A Story.” The exhibition will run until July 4. All of the books represented in the exhibition will be available at Inkwood Books. Among the award-winning artist/illustrators included in the exhibition are James Bennett, Robert Byrd, Bob Hochgertel, Joe Kulka, Lisa Papp and Robert Papp.
“It’s a good time to feature the children’s book show as children are going to leave school and go on summer breaks, and this is suggesting a summer reading list. Just because school is over doesn’t mean you should stop reading. (Coming to the exhibition) is a great way to start the summer,” MAC Chief Operating Officer Bob Hochgertel said.
Hochgertel said each year during the summer, MAC tries to feature a unique exhibition, as the art world is filled with unique kinds of art, and having diversity in MAC’s exhibitions is important. It featured abstract expressionist Chuck Hosier and materials such as fabrics, fibers and foundry last year. This summer’s unique exhibition is children’s illustrations.
“I hope (people) realize here at Markeim that we are bringing in different art and artists. Many of these artists are nationally and internationally known,” Hochgertel said.
At the exhibition, the original artwork of the children’s books will be on display on the walls, sans text or editing. In front of the work will be the books on pedestals for visitors to look at and compare. According to Hochgertel, many times people don’t realize what went into the original art in children’s books. With the text added as well as the art being shrunk down, the detail is often missed.
“I think while all of us had read books as children or to children, we don’t think about what went into the original art. You’re seeing it one or two layers removed from the original. When you look at the originals, you realize that they are just as substantial and noteworthy as many of the paintings you see in museums. (At the exhibition), you’ll be able to see them in all of their magnificence and the way the artist intended,” Hochgertel said.
Featured artists and artwork include, but aren’t limited to: Byrd with “Electric Ben” and “Brave Chicken Little;” Husband and wife Robert and Lisa Popp with “P is for Princess, A Royal Alphabet,” “The Town That Fooled the British” and “Titanticat;” Hochgertel with “The ABCs of Philadelphia;” Kulka with “Wolf’s Coming,” “The Christmas Coal Man” and “My Crocodile Does Not Bite;” Bennett with “Halloween” and “The 2000 Year Old Man Goes To School” by celebrity authors; and Glenn Zimmer illustrating in educational books and for major sports organizations.
All of the artists have a variety of styles, from traditional to digital art and realistic to cartoony, as well as working with a variety of mediums such as watercolors, acrylics, pens and oils. Many authors have also won awards for their art.
An opening reception and book signing featuring all artists will be held on Friday, June 17 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The reception will have refreshments and chances to interact with the artists and some authors.
“It’s an opportunity to see the original art, meet the creators behind them and see and meet illustrators and authors, something you don’t often see,” Hochgertel said.
For more information, visit www.markeimartscenter.org.
