Golden Kite Exhibit Review

What a weekend!  I am so thankful to the SCBWI and for the opportunity to be a regional advisor.  I have met the most amazing people in my life thanks to this organization.  The exhibit was stunning and Texas illustrators you have until October to make the trek to Abilene, I can't recommend enough that you do!  The artwork is incredible. 80 pieces from the books, covers and more from the Golden Kite Winners of the last 40 years.  I could have spent all day looking at the art.  The NCCIL (that's the "nickel" for those in the know) is an astonishing gallery and a group of very dedicated children's book enthusiasts.

Before the exhibit we were treated to 4 illustrators reading and drawing with the children of Abilene at the public library.  Pictured above David Diaz taught everyone about classical proportions as he drew one of his signature faces.  David is also the driving force behind this successful exhibit and event.  Members of SCBWI Illustrator's Board were there to support the event, including David, Priscilla Burris, Cecila Yung and Pat Cummings. Illustrators who did the visits included Larry Day, Kristen Balouch and Alan Stacy.

Lin Oliver, Executive Director of the SCBWI, was so inspired she went right out and began drawing!  This was a canvas on the wall with sketches from all the visiting artists - priceless.

The wall of awesomeness - really folks - you HAVE to go!  The exhibit will also be traveling around the country so keep an eye out to see if it will be heading near you.  And it's a huge exhibit, 80 pieces!

Lin Oliver and Steve Moser sharing about the humble beginnings of the SCBWI and the heart behind the organization, which is supporting the talented and dedicated authors and illustrators of children's literature. 

One of the highlights of the day was watching Richard Jesse Watson demo painting with egg tempera.  It was fascinating and I can't imagine the time that goes into his artwork.  He is very much a 'let's try and see what happens' kind of artist, that was fun to watch!

This is a sculpture around the corner from the museum.

The exhibit was good for the soul, the company was inspirational and hospitality was all Texan.  I loved every minute of this weekend and I'm eagerly counting down the days until LA for the next Tribe gathering.  Isn't that what the SCBWI is after all?

See more photos at the Golden Kite facebook page.