Illustrators Show Kids The Power Of Art

Lions and tigers and bears and… cute owls and scary monster cupcakes?

So it was at Powerhouse Arena’s illustration workshop on Sunday, August 5, where kids of all ages sat on the bookstore’s large amphitheatre-style steps and listened intently as three veteran children’s book illustrators showed them the basics of drawing almost anything they could imagine. Some of the most popular images were monsters, animals and food items.

“I learned how to use shapes in drawing, and letters from the alphabet,” said 10-year-old Kaitlyn Parker, who came with her five-year-old sister Ava and their parents for the workshop. Crown Heights day care owner Lydia Robinson agreed, noting that her four day kids, aged two to 11, “loved it” and “thought it was really cool. It was [also] easy and fun for them to do.”

The workshop was a first for illustrators Michael Moran, Jim Paillot, and Michael Slack, as well. Their tips for any kids who missed the event are to “be inspired,” “draw what you love,” “have fun,” and that “simple things can make great subjects.”

Jim Paillot, Michael Slack, and Michael Moran pose with some books they illustrated at the "Slightly Strange" exhibit at Powerhouse.

The three – who are among five featured artists whose works are on display in Powerhouse’s second floor gallery at 37 Main Street as part of the “Slightly Strange” exhibit, which runs through September 3 – have illustrated books such as “Poopendous,” “Secrets of a Lab Rat,” and “Monkey Truck.” The other illustrators featured are Dan Krall and Wednesday Kirwan.

All five artists share an odd and entertaining sense of humor that manifests in gorgeously vivid imagery.

Michael Moran demonstrates illustration tips to kids at Powerhouse Arena's illustration workshop.

 

Mikealia, 9, Jhanae, 11, and Noel, 3, are engrossed in drawing during the illustration workshop at Powerhouse Arena.

 

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