It is widely known that Sendak decided to become an illustrator at the young age of 12 after watching Disney’s film Fantasia (1940). For more than forty years, Maurice Sendak's books have nurtured children and adults alike. The New York Times wrote that Sendak's work "has brought a new dimension to the American children's book and has helped to change how people visualize childhood." As an author and illustrator, Sendak influenced not only a generation of readers but also a new generation of picture book artists.
This summer we are offering a variety of workshops and talks led by master practitioners and creative professionals. These programs on visual storytelling and illustration are offered in conjunction with the special exhibition Maurice Sendak: 50 Years, 50 Works, 50 Reasons...