Rooted: Family and Nature in Contemporary Children’s Book Illustration

This exhibition explores the enduring bonds of nature and family through a lively presentation of original artwork from eight illustrated children’s books. The illustrations on view will feature a diverse group of protagonists who experience compelling moments in their everyday lives, whether it be finding appreciation for the wonders of nature or feeling joy in activities with family in the outdoors.

The artists represented are Micha Archer, Sophie Blackall, Cozbi A. Cabrera, Joe Cepeda, Devon Holzwarth, Juana Martinez-Neal, Frank Morrison, and Qing Zhuang. Visitors of all ages will be immersed in the colorful, lively drawings created with a variety of materials, including acrylic, oil, watercolor, pastels, colored pencils, linocuts, woodcuts, ink, and collage.

This exhibition is a continuation of the rich tradition of illustration that is so well represented in Brandywine’s collection with works by figures such as Howard Pyle, N.C. Wyeth, and Jesse Willcox Smith.