Do you know Dan Yaccarino's art? I've just recently been introduced to his children's books and now I am a fan. Over the weekend I visited my local fine arts museum to see an exhibit of his work. Actually it was my second visit as I wanted a closer look. I thought you might like to see it, too, so I took my camera along. He's going to be at the museum on April 13, so I hope to attend his lecture.
There are about seventy paintings on display from fourteen of the books he's written and illustrated since 1997.
One of his more recent books is The Fantastic Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau.
I love Mr. Night from Good Night, Mr. Night. It's a sweet book, somewhat unlike his more recent illustrations, in which Mr. Night calms the world in preparation for sleep.
In Every Friday a little boy looks forward to his Friday walk with his father through his neighborhood, watching all the people and doing all their errands ending up at their favorite diner for breakfast. Also very sweet and a lovely little weekly ritual (one an adult can appreciate, too!).
I've started my own little collection of Dan Yaccarino's books. It's only a pity I don't know any small children to share them with, but surely you're never too old for children's books, right?
I think my next purchase is going to be All the Way to America: The Story of a Big Italian Family and a Little Shovel.
Aren't these paintings wonderful? I love their bold colors, sharp lines and retro style! Now I'm looking forward to hearing Yaccarino speak. A fantastic world indeed!