February 10, 2010 > Children's Book Illustrators Exhibit Children's Book Illustrators Exhibit By Patsy Ledbetter Jenny Whisler, art educator for the Sun Art Gallery in Hayward takes pride in her very colorful car. Last summer, students at art camp, where she teaches, painted it for children's school field trips and summer camps. The latest event at the Sun Art Gallery, "The Twenty-First Annual Children's Book Illustrators Exhibit," is on display through April 3. Director for this event will be Valerie Caveglia. Gallery Manager, Christine Bender is very excited about integrating children's book illustrators into community schools. School field trips take place weekdays, and allow the children to be introduced to various types of art. They are also able to participate in an art project with teacher Claudia Schwalin. Jenny tells the children that their most important art tool is their own imagination. All of these women clearly love children and are interested in bringing forth their natural creativity. Each of the illustrators will be at the Gallery on Saturday, February 20 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to meet the public and sign their books. These books will also be sold during the event, and refreshments will be served for those who attend. One of the illustrators is Jessel Miller who has a gallery of her own and has vibrantly illustrated numerous books. Another is Carl Angel, who illustrated a book entitled, "Sky High-The True Story of Magie Gee." Some of his paintings portray a very enthusiastic young lady who is fascinated with airplanes. Illustrator, Paul Tong has a book entitled, "The Night of the Hurricane's Fury," and utilizes paints combined beautifully. Ashlee Wolff, uses collage in her art work. She very carefully combines torn paper and paint which yields outstanding results. Maya Gonzalez, has illustrated "I Know the River Loves Me," and "My Nana's Big Surprise." Her work is extremely bright and Elsa Kleven whose work involves "A Carousel Tale." Last but not the least is Jane Wattenberg who uses computer prints in her work. She has a series of them displayed in, "The Duck and the Kangaroo." The Gallery is about 2,000 square feet and includes a bookstore and an art studio. On Saturdays, families can come for free art instruction. Gallery personnel are very interested in supporting art in the community. During this event, there will also be a one man show by Ken Smith, a local artist. He will set up his own work for one month of the show. The next month another artist will do the same thing. They will host individual receptions. This exhibit is one you won't want to miss. Children's Book Illustrators Exhibit A Celebration of Excellence in Art and Literature Through April 3 Meet the Illustrators Saturday, February 20 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sun Art Gallery Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 2nd and 4th Saturdays 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 1015 E St., Hayward (510) 581-4050 www.sungallery.org.