Monsters and Miracles - Picture Book Illustrations at the Skirball

I’m so glad I finally saw the Monsters and Miracles exhibit of Jewish picture book illustrations at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. The selection is extensive and inspiring. I think almost every art medium is included, and the variety of styles and subjects highlight the richness of possibility in children’s book illustration.

Uri Shulevitz, Writing With Pictures

I was so excited and so eager to see them all that I practically ran from one illustration to the other. I had so many favorites it would be impossible to choose just one. There were works by my first instructor in children’s book writing and illustration, Uri Shulevitz, by old favorite Margot Zemach and new favorite Kristina Swarner. Seeing an original piece -- the brightness, color clarity, individual brushstrokes, and distinctive techniques -- is invaluable to an artist.

Kristina Swarner, Before You Were Born

This exhibit will be at the Skirball till August 1, and I suggest that anyone who can manage to should see it. It is special, remarkable and memorable. Allow yourself plenty of time to study them all. Megan Frances has an excellent overview description of the exhibit on her site, On Beyond Words and Pictures.

Bravo to the Skirball for bringing together the work of so many talented artists!