School Visits & Workshops
Craig visits
Adams Elementary School in Seattle...
SPEAKING INFORMATION:
I love to talk to kids about my books and about how I created the illustrations. I bring in sketches, props, and actual art from the books. I usually close my visit with a book sale and signing for the students.
AUDIENCE:
I present to students in grades K-8, but 2nd-6th grade is ideal.
"The kids learned a lot and were very impressed by your artwork. We appreciated how prepared you were!"
- Park Lodge Elementary Librarian, Lakewood, WA
“It was a pleasure having you here. I know the kids who attended got a lot out of your presentation!”
- Mukilteo Children's Librarian, Mukilteo, WA
“It was an excellent program; I hope we can have you back someday!”
- Mill Creek Children's Librarian, Mill Creek, WA
SELECTED PROGRAMS
My programs vary and can be tailored to a specific audience and subject.
1) Story Behind Born to Draw Comics, Charles Schulz, PEANUTS, and the Creation of a Picture Book. In an entertaining and interactive presentation, young students will learn about the life and career of cartoonist Charles Schulz. As a child, “Sparky” longed to become a professional cartoonist and, with hard work and determination, created PEANUTS, the most popular and influential comic in history. Students will love the humorous stories of Schulz’s dog Spike, who later inspired the beloved character Snoopy, as well as other fun facts. Students will also learn the steps involved in creating the picture book “Born to Draw Comics.” They include research, character sketches, art mediums used, and photos from the fun trips to various locations where Charles Schulz lived, attended school, and worked on his comic strip. I wrap up each talk with tips on drawing your favorite PEANUTS characters along with time for students to draw as well. For more information, view the flyer here.
2) Another popular presentation is on my book “Natures Paintbox: A Seasonal Gallery of Art and Verse”. This picture book is a beautiful descriptive poem about the four seasons rendered in a different art technique for each season. As the illustrator, I think this is a great tool to teach students about art mediums, poetry, and nature. During the program, I talk about the process of creating the art from the sketch phase to the final illustrations. Also, comparisons are made between each season and its related art medium. I have lots of visuals to share, like original sketches, photo references, and actual art. It’s a real hands-on program where students get to create a finished piece of art in watercolor just like in my book! My process of illustrating is also covered. Go to this link for more information about a presentation based on this book.