Illustoria Week of Action Day 7: Black Music Thru The Ages - A Playlist
Billie Holiday by Annie Dills
It’s Day 7 of our week of action, a campaign organized in solidarity with groups all over the world resisting acts of hate and seeking justice for Black lives tragically cut short. Though we are approaching the end of this week long campaign, by no means are we done with the pursuit of change. Instead, we are learning together what we can do to break and build for a better world.
One of the greatest tools for a young revolutionary, next to their voice, is the power to listen. With it, one can always be receptive to the act of learning that is so crucial to fighting injustice. Listening can open our minds to new perspectives, and with them new ways to envision a better future. Listening fuels the imagination. Listening drives progress.
Listening also facilitates communication. It allows others to be heard, and makes us better at expressing ourselves. All of the artists in this playlist understand this fact, and that’s why they made these songs, to make their voices heard and to touch the people that listen. Take a stroll through this brief history of Black music, the backbone of American culture. After all, what would America be without blues, jazz funk, rock n’ roll, and hip hop?
George W. Johnson - Photo Credit: The Phonoscope
1891 - The Laughing Song by George W. Johnson
One of the earliest known music recordings! With a brilliant use of laughter as a chorus. I dare you to listen to this without catching a contagious smile
Elizabeth Cotten, photographer unknown.
1912 - Freight Train by Elizabeth Cotten
Written by Cotton when she was 11 years old! She also named herself on her first day of school because everyone at home called her Lil’ sis. She played her guitar left-handed, so she held it upside down, thumbing melodies and playing bass lines with her fingers.
Louis Armstrong, Photo Credit: World-Telegram staff photographer
1931 - Sleepy Time Down South by Louis Armstrong
Originally written by Clarence Muse, Leon René and Otis René in 1931, but made popular by Louis who recorded it over 100 times! A sweet lullaby to the land he loves.
Billie Holiday, photo credit: William P. Gottlieb
1939 - Strange Fruit by Billie Holiday
For this selection we suggest the parent’s discretion and preparation for a difficult conversation. It’s a million pounds heavy song about the historical violence inflicted on black bodies. It’s important to think about not only how tragically important the song is today, but how revolutionary a woman Billie was to sing this in 1939. Singing the first popular protest song, Billie redefined the relationship between pop and politics and has haunted the country with it for almost a century.
Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, photographer unknown
1942 - Salt Peanuts by Charlie ‘The Bird’ Parker and Dizzy Gillespie
The only lyric in the song is ‘Salt Peanuts,’ probably a staple snack for these hungry jazz cats as that's the only food to be found in most jazz venues. Listen to how Dizzy and The Bird seem to repeat the lyrics with their instruments
Chuck Berry, photo credit: Universal Attractions Management
1957 - School Day (Ring Ring Goes The Bell) by Chuck Berry
He was a trouble maker as a kid, as one would assume from his attitude about school in this song, but went on to become known as the father of rock n’ roll!
Odetta, photo credit: Jac. de Nijs / Anefo
1970 - Hit or Miss by Odetta
As talented a musician as she was fierce an activist. Often referred to as the voice of the civil rights movement, Odetta sings here about the importance of being yourself!
Bob Marley, photo credit: Eddie Mallin
1973 - High-tide, Low Tide by Bob Marley
Marley popularized Jamacian music world wide, called for African unity and liberation, and often sang about anti-imperialist themes. This song is a true anthem for friendship and unity in good times and in hard ones.
Grace Jones, photo credit: John Swannell
1981 - Walking In The Rain by Grace Jones
Grace Jones, a statuesque, androgenous, music and fashion icon captures the feeling of a despondent walk perfectly here. Don’t we all feel like a “no-no” sometimes?
Erykah Badu, photo credit: Tony Krash
1997 - Appletree by Erykah Badu
A song by a real life magic woman, explicitly dedicated to “righteous children”, chew on this funky food for thought!
Esperanza Spalding, photo credit: Montuno Productions
2010 - Little Fly by Esperanza Spalding
She’s a crazy talented stand up bass player and vocalist with a sound simultaneously ancestral and playfully contemporary. This song is a jazzy rendition of the work of William Blake, a sublime poet with an endless respect for children.
Solange, photo credit: Mickalene Thomas
2012 - Losing You by Solange
Her music, her humor, her style, her collaborators, Solange is a bonafide queen of the world and we are all living for her. Clock the groovy/dancy ocean of sound (produced by Dev Hyns of Blood Orange, a queer black icon). Make sure to watch the music video for this one (as well as every music video she’s ever made) to get a sense of her iconic aesthetics and golden personality. Oh, and she’s Beyonce’s sister.
Flying Lotus, photo credit: Simon Fernandez
2015 - The Protest by Flying Lotus
This mind-melting end track to the album is emblematic of (affectionately nicknamed) Fly-Lo’s beautifully hybritized style of production. He draws on classical elements,and breaks into the spiraling psycadila, a whirlpool of jazz, hip-hop, and trance music creating a dreamscape, a universe of its own. He got his start doing the in-between music on Adult Swim, giving his whole career a union with the technicolor of cartoons.
Spellling, photo credit: Catalina Xavlena
2019 - Under the Sun by Spellling
Oakland based Spellling hypnotizes with a sound simultaneously nostalgic for disco and 80s lo-fi, and oracular for a sci-fi afro futurism. Described in the youtube comments as “the nocturnal psychedelic witch-pop i wanted”, the highly stylized music video picks up where vapor-wave left off and is just so wholly COOL.
We’ve created this brief music timeline as part of our week long campaign, #illustoriaweekofaction, in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for Black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. We hope you will join us in remembering the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, Tony McDade and all of the black lives we’ve lost.
Illustoria Week of Action Day 6: Film Recommendations
Welcome to day 6 in our week of action, a campaign created in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by acts of hate.
At Illustoria we think it is vital to educate ourselves and our children about the deeply ingrained racism that plagues our country and our world. We also know how important it is to amplify the black voices that have historically combatted erasure. If we all do our part to listen and educate, we can work together to dismantle institutionalized racism.
That being said, we also know it’s hard to navigate difficult conversations about race and police brutality with our perceptive little ones. How do we simultaneously educate our children about the inequality that exists in the world, while still preserving their hope for change? These are challenging discussions to have, but incredibly crucial ones.
We hope to help open the doors to these conversations with these six family-friendly films about the black experience. These films range in theme, from the generational love that exists in the simple act of styling one's hair, to police profiling and brutality, and to the perseverance of family. These films all have something in common though. They shine with a reverence for black beauty, and sing with the promise of hope.
The Hate U Give, directed by George Tillman Jr.
Released 2018
A young girl comes of age on the precipice of two worlds, her poor black neighborhood and her wealthy white prep school. After the trauma of witnessing a fatal act of police brutality, she must find her voice and fight for justice. Based on the award winning young adult fiction novel, The Hate U Give, by Angie Thomas which is a must-read. Rated PG-13. Streaming on Hulu.
Hair Love, directed by Matthew A. Cherry and Bruce W. Smith
Released 2019
An acclaimed animated short in which a little girl and her father learn how to style her hair with the help of an instructional video narrated by her mother. The story is joyful, tender, and beloved by kids and grownups alike. Based on the picture book Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison which is also a must read. Rated G. Streaming free on Youtube.
Quest, directed by Jonathan Olshefski
Released 2017
A documentary filmed with vérité intimacy over nearly a decade, Quest follows the struggles and successes of an American family in North Philadelphia, nurturing artists in their basement studio. An epic testament to community, love, and healing. Not Rated. Rent from your local library or the film’s website.
Ballerina's Tale, directed by Nelson George
Released 2015
Misty Copelan made history as the first black woman to be named principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. Watch how she braved a tumultuous upbringing and career ending injuries to become one of the most revered dancers of her generation. An inspirational success story for all ages. Not rated. Available to stream on Itunes.
Hidden Figures, directed by Theodore Melfi
Released 2017
The story of three brilliant black women at NASA, providing the brains behind the launch of an astronaut into orbit, the operation that turned the space race and galvanized the world. Based on the book Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women who Helped Launch Our Nation Into Space by Margot Lee Shetterly which is a must read. Rated PG. Available to stream on Itunes.
Malcolm X, directed by Spike Lee
Released 1992
A tribute to the influential leader and advocate for black liberation. The complicated and compelling story of a man climbing from rock bottom, to spiritual salvation, to a fight for liberation, leaving a legacy of power and pride. Rated PG13. Streaming on Netflix.
We’ve created this list of film recommendations as part of our week long campaign, #illustoriaweekofaction, in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. We hope you will join us in remembering the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, Tony McDade and all of the black lives we’ve lost.
Illustoria Week of Action Day 5: Birthday Cards for Breonna Taylor
Artwork by Claire Astrow
Welcome to day 5 in our week of action, a campaign created in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate.
Today we are writing birthday letters to Breonna Taylor, an E.M.T (Emergency Medical Technician) and aspiring nurse from Louisville, KY who would have turned 27 today - June 5, 2020.
On March 13, 2020 Breonna Taylor was wrongfully killed by the police in her own home in the middle of the night. No one has been charged for Breonna Taylor's death. ⠀
So what can we do? Let's honor Breonna's life by making her a birthday card demanding justice. ⠀
Step 1: Draw your card. Breonna loved the colors blue & purple! ⠀
Step 2: Write your letter - demand that charges be brought against the police officers who committed this crime. ⠀
Step 3: Want to share your card with us? We’d love to see it ! Post on Instagram with the hashtag #illustoriaweekofaction.
Step 4: Choose to send your letter to: ⠀
Attorney General Daniel Cameron ⠀
Office of the Attourney General ⠀
700 Capital Avenue, Suite 118 ⠀
Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 ⠀
and / or ⠀
Mayor Greg Fischer ⠀
527W Jefferson St. #600 ⠀
Louisville KY 40202 ⠀
This project is part of our campaign #illustoriaweekofaction. This campaign was created in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. We hope you will join us in remembering the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, Tony McDade and all of the black lives we’ve lost. Thank you.
Illustoria Week of Action Day 4: Draw Yourself as a Superhero
Illustration by Anis Mojgani featured in our upcoming Issue 12: Upcycle.
Welcome to day 4 in our week of action. Today we have a special drawing prompt: imagine yourself as a superhero.
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This project is a great conversation starter for parents who are struggling to explain the current state of events to their kids. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for young people to feel empowered during these troubling times and process their emotions.
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Step 1: Let’s start with the basics. If you were a superhero, what would you look like? What costume would you wear? Would you have a sidekick? Would you have magical tools like a wand or amulet? Draw some sketches.
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Step 2: Now it’s time to think up some superpowers. How can your superhero spread peace in your community? Would they have healing powers to help the injured or mega-strength to help rebuild schools? Clairvoyance to alert when people are in danger? The possibilities are endless!
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Step 3: Get out your pencils and crayons and start drawing! Want to share your superhero? We’d love to feature it on our website. Share it on Instagram with the hashtag #illustoriaweekofaction and email a picture of your work to madebyme@illustoria.com.
Artwork by Connie, age 8.
Artwork by Emma, age 10.
This project is part of our campaign #illustoriaweekofaction. This campaign was created in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. We hope you will join us in remembering the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, Tony McDade and all of the black lives we’ve lost. Thank you.
Illustoria Week of Action Day 3: Write to Your Local Officials
Welcome to Day 3 in our week of action, a campaign created in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate.
Today’s prompt focuses on the power of snail mail! Yup, that’s right. Old fashioned letters in an envelope sent out to your local lawmakers and representatives. For the cost of just fifty five cents, you can put your feelings on paper and send them off into the world to help enact change. Ain’t that just the coolest thing?
This activity is the perfect opportunity to re-learn or teach your kiddos about the branches of government and how laws are made. Need a hand? Check out Three Branches of Government and I’m Just a Bill by our favorite, classic educational TV show Schoolhouse Rock.
I’m Just a Bill by Schoolhouse Rock.
Now that you’ve got some civics 101 under your belt, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work!
Step 1: Find out who your local, county and state representatives are here!
Step 2: Write a letter or draw a picture of how you feel. Need some help? Below is a template that was inspired by https://how-can-i-help.github.io./ Feel free to edit and add your own beliefs.
Template:
Dear _______,
I am a resident of_________ and I am ____ years old. I’m getting in touch because it makes me sad and angry to learn about the treatment of black Americans by police departments in this country. I would like to know what steps our ______ [town, city, county, state] has taken to prevent racist acts by police.
If there are not safeguards in place, there certainly should be, and I do not support my (or my parents’) local taxes paying to fund a police department that treats people of color with prejudice. Services I would rather see funded include: _____________.
Thank you for paying attention to my concerns. I hope to hear back from you soon.
Signed,
_________
Step 3: Address your letter! Never done it before? It’s easy! Write your address in the upper left hand corner of the envelope and the address of the person you're sending it to in the middle of the envelope. Then place a stamp in the upper right corner. (Tip: you may need more than one stamp depending on the size of the envelope you’re sending and where you’re sending it to - if you’re a kid, ask a grownup for help!)
Step 6: Want to share your letter or drawing? Take a photo and share on Instagram with the hashtag #illustoriaweekofaction, then pop it in the mailbox. Give yourself a pat on the back for being an engaged citizen. That’s democracy in action!
This project is part of our campaign #illustoriaweekofaction. This campaign was created in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. We hope you will join us in remembering the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, Tony McDade and all of the black lives we’ve lost. Thank you.
Illustoria Week of Action Day 2: Black Voices Reading List
At Illustoria, we believe it is our responsibility to educate ourselves and our children about racism and how to dismantle systems of oppression. Breaking down these walls begins with ourselves and our families. To that end, we’ve put together a reading list with books about race, white privilege, police brutality, white supremacy, black joy, and activism. This list can be enjoyed by readers from all walks of life, from grownups and children to tweens and teens. We’ve also included books for educators to assist their role in the classroom.
This list was made with great help from the San Francisco Public Librarians, and Mark Gozonsky, writer and English teacher at Ramón C. Cortines School of Visual and Performing Arts in Los Angeles.
We’ve created this reading list as part of our week long campaign, #illustoriaweekofaction, in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. We hope you will join us in remembering the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, Tony McDade and all of the black lives we’ve lost. Thank you.
1. For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood... and the Rest of Y'all Too: Reality Pedagogy and Urban Education by Christopher Emdin
2. Other People's Children: Cultural Conflict in the Classroom by Lisa Delpit
3. We Want to Do More Than Survive: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom by Bettina L. Love
4. Black Appetite. White Food: Issues of Race, Voice, and Justice Within and Beyond the Classroom by Jamila Lyiscott
5. Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies: Teaching and Learning for Justice in a Changing World by Django Paris
6. The Trouble With Black Boys: ...And Other Reflections on Race, Equity, and the Future of Public Education by Pedro A. Noguera
7. Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Monique W. Morris
1. We Gon' Be Alright: Notes on Race and Resegregation Book by Jeff Chang
2. The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander
3. Me and White Supremacy by Layla Saad
4. Outlaw Culture by bell hooks
5. How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
6. So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo7. When They Call You A Terrorist by Asha Bandele and Patrisse Cullors
1. Not My Idea: A Book About Whiteness by Anastasia Higginbotham
2. Hands Up! by McDaniel, Breanna J.
3. Can I Touch your Hair? Poems of Race, Mistakes, and Friendship by Charles Waters and Irene Latham
4. The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander
5. The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson
6. Something Happened in Our Town A Child's Story About Racial Injustice by Celano, Marianne
1. This Book Is Anti-racist: 20 Lessons on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do the Work by Tiffany Jewell
2. One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
3. For Black Girls Like Me by Mariama J. Lockington
4. We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices by Wade Hudson (Editor), Cheryl Willis Hudson (Editor)
5. Genesis Begins With Action by Alicia D. Williams
6. Blended by Sharon M. Draper
1. How it Went Down by Kekla Magoon
2. Youth to Power: Your Voice and How to Use It by Jamie Margolin
3. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
4. We Are Not Yet Equal: Understanding Our Racial Divide by Carol Anderson
5. The BreakBeat Poets Vol. 2: Black Girl Magic by by Jamila Woods (Editor), Mahogany L. Browne (Editor), Idrissa Simmonds (Editor)
6. Black Enough: Stories of Being Young & Black in America edited by Ibi Zoboi
We’ve created this reading list as part of our week long campaign, #illustoriaweekofaction, in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. We hope you will join us in remembering the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, Tony McDade and all of the black lives we’ve lost. Thank you.
Illustoria Week of Action Day 1: Make A Protest Poster
Art by Claire Astrow
This week, we are launching #illustoriaweekofaction, a campaign in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. DAY 1 in our week of action: make a protest poster! ⠀
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Make your voice heard with a bold design. Protest posters need not only be carried to rallies. You can also place them in front of your window of your house, in your car, or frame and place it on the wall. ⠀
Step 1: Pick a slogan. What words matter most to you? ⠀
Step 2: Make a few thumbnail sketches of possible designs. This is always a great idea before embarking on a large piece! Need inspiration? Check out the iconic posters of some of our favorite artists @emorydouglasart, @favianna1, @bluekaza and #SisterCoritaKent @coritaartcenter. ⠀
Step 3: Sketch out your design in pencil 1st! ⠀
Step 4: Use markers, paint, paper, or whatever materials you have at hand to create your design. ⠀
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Step 5: Display proudly. Share your work with us #illustoriaweekofaction. Poster by our publishing assistant Claire Astrow.
This project is part of our campaign #illustoriaweekofaction. This campaign was created in solidarity with communities around the globe seeking justice for black lives cut short by atrocious acts of hate. Illustoria is committed to fighting racism and listening to the unheard. We hope you will join us in remembering the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, Tony McDade and all of the black lives we’ve lost. Thank you.
Free Activities from the ILLUSTORIA Archives
FREE & DOWNLOADABLE! Pages from Illustoria’s printable activity pack, “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE.”
With kids and parents sheltered at home during these extremely difficult times, I’ve been reflecting on what Illustoria has to offer and how we can contribute to families in a small way. Since we launched the magazine in 2016, a guiding ethos has been to inspire creativity across generations; to get grownups and kids to slow down together to read, write, make, draw, play, and get into the mood for creative experiences together off screen. Now as we find ourselves in our homes, finding brilliant new ways to stay connected virtually, it seems technology has never been more appreciated and needed. And yet—the tactile act of making, baking, crafting; the joy of snuggling together with a book (or kids’ mag); the pleasure of dancing to music and the beat of our own drums…many, who are fortunate to, are finding more time and space for these simple, timeless activities.
Whether you are needing a break from the kids (these pages can keep them occupied for hours!) or looking for more inspiration for activities to engage in together, I hope families will find some fun distraction and joyful art-making here. This 42-page collection represents some of our favorite activities from Issues 1–5—all out-of-print issues that we’re so thrilled to revisit and bring back to life in this way—and represent contributions by amazingly talented writers, artists, and staff through the years.
Feel free to print out a copy of this activity collection, staple it together, and have your kids customize the cover with their own colorful drawings. If you don’t have a printer, many of the activities can still be referenced and enjoyed off your device. For those with a home printer, please consider printing an extra copy or two for a neighbor or kids you know who might enjoy these activities.
Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart, for your support through the years and for being a part of our community.
******DOWNLOAD BELOW*******
PRINTABLE EDITION (single pages; PLEASE PRINT DOUBLE-SIDED + STAPLE TOGETHER)
DIGITAL EDITION (double pages; BEST FOR VIEWING ON SCREEN—not for print)
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
A spread from “DRAW, WRITE, PLAY, MAKE,” a free collection of activities from issues 1–5 of Illustoria.
Kid Writing Submission! What's the Story Behind This Image?
Artwork by Simone Rea
Calling all kids! Tell us the story behind this image for the chance to have it featured in our next issue!
Who are these characters and what are they up to? Email your idea, along with your name and age to madebyme@illusotria.com. Eligible for writers 13 years old and younger. If you’re older though, feel free to participate anyway!
250 words maximum. Deadline is March 23! Artwork by Simone Rea.
This image and prompt can be found in Issue 11: Creatures, which is available for pre-order here! Can’t wait to see what you submit.
Playlist: Issue #10 Color
Synesthesia is a phenomenon in which one sense (say, hearing) is also perceived by another sense (like sight). As an ode to this amazing poetic thing that happens, we proudly present the Sounds of Colors, a kaleidoscopic adventure through a rainbow of songs! Whether you’re nursing a case of the blues or feeling mellow yellow, take a closed eye moment with these songs and see what hues these sounds paint behind your eyelids. Don’t forget to pick up your copy of Illustoria #10 for a vivid exploration of COLOR!
Troubadour by © Stewart Easton for ILLUSTORIA #10: The Color Issue
Interview with Isabelle Arsenault & Mac Barnett, Creators of Just Because
What kinds of things do you think about right before bed? Do you wonder what happened to the dinosaurs? Do you think about the day to come? Or do you perhaps fall right asleep and let your subconscious do the pondering? Nighttime musings nourish the inquisitive mind in Just Because, a question-filled bedtime story that draws readers into a wondrous space between wakefulness and sleep.
Just Because invites readers into the familiar, shadowy scape of a bedroom at night as a youngster prepares to go to sleep, and then into the wild world of her imagination. Flourishing with color, creatures, and familiar objects in unexpected places, these swirling scenes accompany a father’s clever responses to her endless questions. The result is a story that raises as many questions as it answers, and encourages us to seek answers in our dreams and imaginations.
It was our pleasure and privilege to interview the duo behind this dreamy collaboration: writer and Caldecott medalist Mac Barnett, and illustrator of the award-winning Jane, the Fox and Me, Isabelle Arsenault. We got to ask them about working together, their creative inspiration, and all the questions on our minds after reading their book!
Just Because- Art by Isabelle Arsenault, Words by Mac Barnett.
1. Some illustrations in this book are really colorful, and others are more shadowy and monochrome. How did you use color to help tell the story?
Isabelle: I associated a different colour to each of the questions in the book, creating a visual link between questions and answers. The question-pages are dimmer, as the light is turned down in the little girl’s bedroom, and the only colour is this big bold circle featuring her question addressed to her dad. The next page is her dad’s answer-spread where the same colour is used differently throughout the spread, with more nuancing and details. At the end of the book, colours are used in another way that breaks this convention, and brings the story to a more poetic level.
Mac: It makes sense that we read stories at bedtime. Stories are about crossing thresholds—between reality and fiction, between our experience and someone else’s. And bedtime is a liminal space—the threshold between waking and sleeping. I like these in-between spaces. When we’re more uncertain, there’s an opportunity to change, to grow, to think new thoughts.
sketches by Isabelle Arsenault.
2. How did you collaborate to tell this story?
Isabelle: I received Mac’s manuscript along with a suggestion for the layout, and two visual references/inspirations. These were old images from an encyclopedia I think, and right then, I felt we were on the same page with this book.
Mac: As a writer I prefer asking questions, as a civilian I prefer answering them. A lot of my stories pose questions. Figuring out what you think about a text can be hard work, but it’s one of the great pleasures of reading, and I’d never want to take that away from kids.
Just Because- Art by Isabelle Arsenault, Words by Mac Barnett.
3. What was your process for creating the other-worldly scenes in this story?
Isabelle: The Q&A style of this manuscript reminded me of the science documentary series I use to read (and loved) as I kid. I felt inspired by this cold factual form and liked the way it contrasted with the content, somehow. The little girl’s questions are serious, but the answers her father makes up are absurd and funny. I thought representing these seriously was perfect. So I worked with a realistic approach, trying to make these senseless images believable.
Mac: Isabelle is one of my favorite illustrators working today, and I’ve been wanting to make a book with her for almost ten years. In the manuscript for Just Because, I noted that the story alternates between a child’s room and the fantastic landscape’s described by her father, but that’s all. Once I handed my words off to Isabelle, the story belonged to her. And because she is a great illustrator, she added so much to this book, including a lovely arc between father and daughter that’s told only by their poses from picture to picture.
Isabelle Arsenault’s studio.
4. What sorts of questions do you think about before bed?
Isabelle: Oh, l’m the doubtful person type, always wondering if I’m doing the right thing... What will be my next book? Will it be good enough? Will kids like it? What if I fail?... What other job could I do?... etc. That sort of funny questions.
Mac: I fall asleep so fast, pretty much the moment I lie down.
Just Because sketches by Isabelle Arsenault.
Just Because can be found in Illustoria’s Issue 10: Color’s On Our Bookshelf feature, which is available to order now. You can also find it at bookstores and libraries across the country. Many thanks to Candlewick for helping sponsor this issue and for this interview opportunity.
Interview with Carson Ellis, Illustrator of The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper
So the shortest day has come! Though it might be outshined by the dazzling delights of the holiday season, the winter solstice has long been at the root of popular December traditions. Newbery medalist Susan Cooper’s brand new picture book The Shortest Day reconnects us to the centuries-long solstice history. The book is based on Cooper’s beloved poem by the same title, and offers the sweeping, folkloric origins of shepherding light through the darkest time of the year into a bright future.
Susan Cooper, Photo by Tsar Fedorsky.
Carson Ellis, Photo by Autumn De Wilde.
Caldecott Honoree Carson Ellis achieves a profound pictorial interpretation of the poem, with breathtaking scenes that capture the vastness of the dark and the enduring sparks of light within it. Muted and wind-chilled gouache paintings illustrate the poem’s reverence for the somber beauty of communal resilience in the dead of winter. The sun is depicted as a lumbering, weary creature using a crutch, collapsing against mountains as civilization gathers and prepares for the long night. In one of the first spreads, the reader is greeted with foliage in the foreground, dry and dead but dotted with dandelions. Their white seed heads are backdropped by birds flying in formation -- all nods to renewal, hope, and the inevitable cycles of nature.
Clever readers will find that as time passes and dark yields to light, parallels between the past and the present remain -- especially in the intentions of peace, joy, and thankfulness that are a guiding light through the darkest season. Cooper’s poem and Ellis’ illustrations join in resonant communion, divining in itself a ritual celebration of light and hope. A deeply reverent welcoming of Yuletide and humble harkening to collective tradition.
Art by Carson Ellis.
It was an absolute delight to reconnect with Carson Ellis and chat about her personal connection to the winter solstice, as well as her process for illustrating this masterpiece (which is featured in Issue 10: Color’s top book recommendations!). The award-winning illustrator graced the cover of Illustoria’s Issue 8: Home, with a cozy, snow-capped scene quite reminiscent of The Shortest Day. If you love our interview below, be sure to check out our full-length interview with Ellis and her husband Colin Meloy (lead singer of the Decemberists, and creative collaborator) in Issue 8, available here. We hope you enjoy, and happy holidays to all!
Artwork by Carson Ellis.
1. Can you talk about how you used color to help illustrate the relationship between light and dark in the poem?
Because the poem is about the Winter Solstice, light is really central to the book. It’s about the slow dying of the light as the days get shorter and the joyous celebration of its return on the shortest day. I thought a lot about the the way the light changes with the seasons: the bright, overexposed-feeling light of summer; the amber light of fall (my favorite); the thin, blueish light of winter. If we live in a place with distinct seasons, we know these shifts in light and the colors in the landscapes around us throughout the year and we probably all have emotional responses that correspond to them. So I wanted the light in the illustrations to reflect the light of the shortening days and evoke the feelings, often of gloom and dread, that go along with that.
Artwork by Carson Ellis.
2. One recurring image that we found striking is of the sun as a person's head. What did this image represent for you when illustrating the poem?
It’s an old, cross-cultural idea: the depiction of the sun as a man who becomes slowly more decrepit until he dies and is then reborn on the winter solstice. I did a little research about solstice traditions and this sun man came up in various cultural traditions throughout history. Which probably means that it’s a deeply resonant image for a lot of us. I know it was for me.
Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Hunters in the Snow, 1565, oil on wood panel, 46 in × 63 3⁄4 in.
3. What was the biggest challenge of illustrating The Shortest Day? What was the most rewarding?
The biggest challenge was to come up with the right approach to The Shortest Day. Initially I had envisioned a book about a bunch of merry medieval villagers making their way to some kind of solstice celebration. I wanted the book to look like a Breugel painting. Breugel was a 16th century Dutch painter. I love his winter scenes and also all of the details about medieval life that you can glean from them. So I guess initially I wanted to use this book as an opportunity to do that. I planned to do some research about medieval life and then to set this book squarely in northern Europe in the 16th century so that it could be a glimpse into that world. But that’s not really what The Shortest Day is about. I corresponded with Susan and she had a much more complicated and profound vision for the book. The story she wanted it to tell was about the threat that winter posed to early humans, how meaningful the symbolism of the solstice was in light of that, and how our contemporary winter holiday traditions grew out of that and connect us to our ancestors. This is a much more interesting book! But it was a more daunting book too. I spent a month just thinking about it before I even started sketching. Though, once I did solve the question of how to illustrate it, The Shortest Day was a joy to work on. I think the most rewarding part of it was figuring out a way to tell the story Susan wanted to tell and also figuring out how to paint the sweeping atmospheric landscapes that I was envisioning for the first few spreads. I didn’t know how to do that initially and it took a lot of experimenting to get it right.
Artwork by Carson Ellis.
4. How do you celebrate the shortest day of the year?
I don’t really have any solstice traditions - I haven’t celebrated it in the past. But last year the winter solstice coincided with the full moon which made it - to my mind - an extra powerful day. So I put a jug of water outside before bed, let the moon shine down on it all night, and then the next day, I drank it! Some of my family drank it too. Some declared this too witchy, and abstained.
The Father Christmas Letters by J. R. R. Tolkien.
The Shortest Day can be found in Illustoria’s Issue 10: Color’s On Our Bookshelf feature, which is available to order now. You can also find it at bookstores and libraries across the country. Many thanks to Candlewick for helping sponsor this issue and for this interview opportunity. To read a full length interview with Carson Ellis, be sure to check out Issue 8: Home.
Look Inside Issue #10: Color!
Art by JooHee Yoon.
Oh happy day, Issue 10: Color is here! Where did color come from? Some say New Jersey, and some say outer space. No matter what your opinion, this issue explores how we see and use color. Order your copy, or subscribe today and receive your issue just in time for the holidays!
We are honored to feature a cacophonous cover by printmaker and renowned children’s book illustrator JooHee Yoon, creator of Up Down Inside Out and Beastly Verse. Find an interview with the artist inside, plus…
DIY Travel Palette by Maggie Wauklyn, Eat Purple by Mascot Press.
Winter to Spring by Sanaiya V., art by Charlotte Ager. Color Haikus by students at 826 Valencia.
Mantis Shrimp by Docu-Comix, art by Julia McNamara. Miscellaneous Revelry by Emmy Kastner.
Learn how to make your own DIY travel palette, moody self portraits, and all purple party. Read short stories, haikus, and interviews written by International Alliance of Youth Writing Centers. Find out everything you need to know about the marvelous Mantis shrimp and enjoy three pages of Miscellaneous Revelry.
How We See Color by Jamyelese Ryer, art by Lan Truong. A History of Color by Alexis Joseph, art by Lindsay Stripling.
Interview with Creative Adults at work, and Shana Cleveland.
Interviews with Are You Kidding Socks, and Young Black Motivated Kings & Queens.
Learn the history and science of color in incredible, easy to understand non-fiction articles. Hear from passionate youth activists in Pittsburgh, teenage entrepreneurs who started their own sock business, and surf rock musician Shana Cleveland of La Luz! Plus, enjoy awesome story building prompts, coloring pages, book reviews, comics and more in this optical issue. Order your copy, or subscribe today and receive your issue just in time for the holidays!
Heath Make Good Market 2019
Come join ILLUSTORIA at Heath SF’s annual Make Good Market—an extraordinary event with over 30 talented vendors—artisan-makers and designers who will be on hand to share their craft, process, and goods with you. We are happy to be back at Heath, selling magazines (including discounted back issue bundles!) and hosting a DIY collage art activity that easily doubles as wrapping paper for your favorite gifts.
Find out more about Heath’s Make Good Market here.
It will be an amazing time to learn about the process and inspiration behind some of the makers whose work we most admire. Come celebrate creativity, select timeless, quality gifts of all price ranges, and make art with us. Then head to Tartine for a delicious bite to eat and to Playmountain East and Aesthetic Union for more goodness!
We hope to see you there!
Playlist: Issue #9 Food
One of life's great treasures is a kitchen swirling with music and aromas. This Issue 9: Food playlist was made to get things cookin', from slow burns to deep-fried jams, all spiced to perfection. Boil beets to MF Doom's beef beats, crunch on celery with Paul McCartney in Brian Wilson's Vegetables, or start your day with a balanced breakfast served up by Gorillaz and Gruff Rhys. Food and sweet tunes go together like peanut butter and jelly, so turn up the heat and jam out with us! Many thanks to the whole ILLUSTORIA staff, friends and family who helped make this rad playlist, and to Annie Dills for the illustration.
Share your favorite tasty tune on Instagram with the hashtag #ILLUSTORIAplaylist! Listen in the link below, or on Spotify. And be sure to order your copy of Issue 9: Food on the McSweeney’s site. Bon appetit!
Artwork by © Annie Dills for ILLUSTORIA #9: The Food Issue
Issue 10: Color Release Parties
We hope you’ll join us for two evenings of music, poetry readings, trivia, and giveaways during our upcoming Issue 10 release parties.
Photo of Larry Yes by Julie Keefe.
Saturday, November 30
4 - 5 pm
Mother Foucault’s Bookshop
523 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR 97214
Join Illustoria Magazine to celebrate the release of Issue #10: Color! This free, family-friendly event will be filled with music and creativity. Musician and Issue #10 featured artist Larry Yes will perform songs from his new EP Sychic rhyming Dictionary. There will be a DIY holiday card making station with art supplies provided by Sakura of America! Plus, there will be fun trivia, giveaways, and back issues of the magazine for sale. RSVP to the event here!
Friday, December 6
7 - 8 pm
826 Valencia Youth Writing & Tutoring Center
San Francisco, CA 94110
Join Illustoria Magazine to celebrate the release of Issue #10: Color! This free, family-friendly event will be filled with music and creativity. 826 Valencia students featured in Issue 10 will read their haikus, musician Gregory Gardner will perform with his brilliant crew of kindergarten students, and folks can create holiday cards with beautiful gel pens provided by Sakura of America! Plus, there will be fun trivia, giveaways, and back issues of the magazine for sale. RSVP to the event here.
Halloween Book Roundup
Artwork by Annie Dills
As the weather grows crisper, the sun sets earlier, and pumpkins adorn doorsteps, there’s just no better way to embrace the chilly Fall season than by cozying up with a great book. Maybe that’s why we look forward to Halloween books every year! Whether we’re in the mood for scenic autumnal illustrations, or dare to venture into a book of spooky stories, Halloween books are a delightful way to celebrate the season and stimulate our imaginations as we spend more time indoors. This list features our recent favorite Halloween books: some old, some new, some ghoulish, friendly, or historical -- and hopefully some that are just right for you!
The Scarecrow by the Fan Brothers
Ages 4 to 8
We’ve been head-over-heels in love with the Fan Brothers’ artwork since the release of their debut picture book, The Night Gardener (another book that’s ideal for the season!) Now they’re back with stunning autumnal landscapes in The Scarecrow, an unlikely story about a baby crow who befriends an old scarecrow. The soothing tone of Beth Ferry’s rhyming verse pairs wondrously with the soft details of the brothers’ illustrations to create a story that will please readers young and old.
Button and Popper by Olli Tanninen
Ages 4 to 8
Originally published in 1964 by the beloved Finnish author-illustrator Olli Tanninen, this newly translated, folkloric twentieth-century classic is a perfect way to embrace the fantastical atmosphere of the season. The story follows a family of twelve sprite children, two of whom (Button and Popper) find themselves on a quest to help their family when the apple tree they call home succumbs to chilly weather. Orange and yellow-toned mid-century artwork adds a nostalgic touch to this quirky fairy-tale adventure.
Ghoulia by Barbara Cantini
Ages 6 to 8
This endearingly eerie series is a perfect step between picture books and chapter books: friendly to small hands, with more developed paragraphs of text, but still bursting with color illustrations on every page. Character sketches of Auntie Departed, Tragedy the dog, and our friend Ghoulia add whimsy to the story of a young ghoul who seizes Halloween as an opportunity to make friends with real kids without revealing her secret undead status. To add to the fun, in the back of each book you’ll find some festive activities like spot-the-difference pictures and a Halloween recipe!
The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner
Ages 8 to 12
Witches have long been a staple of old fairy tales, popular culture, and Halloween costumes. But for those who are historically inclined, The Okay Witch entwines a primer on the Salem Witch Trials with the familiar trials of surviving middle school. In the case of thirteen-year-old Moth Hush, there’s the extra complication of being half-witch. When Moth learns her mother is actually a witch born in 1676 and a survivor of the Founder’s Bluff Witch Hunt, the surprise isn’t entirely unwelcome — Moth has always had a penchant for the strange — but is she prepared for the history she will unveil about her family and her town? With vivid colors and an expressive style, this book brings Sabrina the Teenage Witch vibes to the expanding world of graphic novels.
City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab
Ages 8 to 12
Here’s an adventure you won’t be able to put down. Cassidy’s parents are the writing duo behind the massively successful Inspecters series about real-life ghost stories, but they’re completely oblivious to the fact that their daughter can actually see ghosts. When Cassidy learns that her parents are going to start filming a new TV series about the most haunted cities in the world, her summer plans are uprooted as she’s whisked away to Edinburgh, Scotland. There, she comes face-to-face with historical ghosts like the Lady in Red and learns about her purpose as someone who can venture in-between the land of the living and the land of the dead. A mix of history, thrills, and a touch of spook make this book impossible to put down. But fear not when you reach the end — there are sequels!
We hope you enjoy these spooky reads. Check out even more book recommendations in Issue 9: FOOD, which in on shelves now! Happy Halloween everyone.
Creator Crush: Kelsey Garrity-Riley, Author-Illustrator of Frankie’s Favorite Food
It’s almost Halloween and that means it’s the season for the costume brainstorming, last minute trips to the thrift store and tearing down the house to find your beloved glue gun. Speaking as someone who recently stayed up until two in the morning paper-macheing my friend’s son’s Halloween costume, I can safely say this is a holiday I adore (and take very seriously). Thus, when I read Frankie's Favorite Food by author and illustrator Kelsey Garrity-Riley (released in August) my heart skipped a beat. This utterly-charming book tells the story of a boy named Frankie who becomes appointed the Costume Manager of his food themed school play. He does a stellar job creating outfits for all of his friends, but can’t decide what to make for himself. Just in time for the performance, Frankie harnesses his creativity to overcome his indecision and makes the perfect costume.
This book is filled with adorable processions of scrumptious, gouache-painted food outfits that come just in time for Halloween (hello costume ideas!). What I loved most about this read is how well Garrity-Riley captures the all too familiar feeling of indecision. With humor, charm, and a healthy helping of food puns, the author offers a delicious antidote to the sometimes dreadful, extremely universal experience of not being able to choose.
Frankie's Favorite Food is Kelsey Garrity-Riley’s author-illustrator debut, and it’s one of our favorite children’s book releases this Fall. This brilliant read made our book roundup for our recent release Issue 9: FOOD, available to order now! We had the ultimate treat of interviewing Kelsey on her process and inspiration for creating this story. We hope you enjoy learning a bit more about the artist! Happy costume making season everyone.
What are you currently working on?
The main things I'm working on right now are a second book with Tundra that’s currently in the writing and early sketching-of-ideas phase that I'm super excited about, as well as a lovely book called You are A Beautiful Beginning (written by Nina Laden) with Roaring Brook Press. I often have cards/wrapping paper projects going on as well (mostly with Red Cap Cards who I adore working with), and the occasional editorial or surface design project but I've lately had to readjust and stay focused almost exclusively on books now that I spend much of the day watching our little boy.
Can you talk about your process of creating Frankie’s Favorite Food from start to finish?
Frankie's Favorite Food was a slow moving amalgamation of a bunch of different things I was interested in creating. I was stuck inside working on a project one Halloween night 5 years ago and as a distraction I sketched out ideas for costumes I thought would be fun to dress up in. That sort of developed into a Halloween card I later created for Red Cap Cards and solidified my interest in drawing kids in fun costumes. At the same time - we had just moved to New York City and I was enamoured with having all different kinds of food to try suddenly just a subway ride away. Specifically I would make a point of going to Chinatown in Manhattan once a week, trying a new place for lunch, and painting the meal in a little sketchbook. (I would take a photo and paint it later, too hard to eat and paint at the same time!) I initially started working on a book idea about highlighting different foods from different cultures (like dumplings and wraps from around the world). I found myself continuing to be drawn to creating kids in little costumes just for fun and eventually I got the spark to combine the two projects. My family helped brainstorm some of the little puns that are used throughout the story (and loads more that didn't make it into the book). The brilliant editors at Tundra were instrumental once they bought the book in editing it all down in just the right ways.
What is your favorite snack?
Like Frankie I definitely struggle with this question! But I’ve never met a dumpling, berry, or chocolate mousse I didn't like.
What was it like moving from Europe to the United States, to attend school at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia? Do you have any advice for people who are moving across the world to a new home?
A sense of belonging and place is a very personal and important thing. Traveling a lot as a kid was very informative to who I am. I talk about this more in another question- but having grown up not really fully European or American it was confusing and hard to first acclimate in America. But I love Savannah, and really loved my experience at school there and once I made good friends America started to feel more like home. Really that's probably everyone's experience with moving anywhere. Finding people you connect with makes all the difference. I also fell in love with the strangely specific town of Savannah and the American South and elements of it still inspire me. I think I just had to learn to embrace it for what it was and not mourn the fact that it wasn't Europe.
What is the most challenging part of illustrating and writing a children’s book? The most rewarding?
The hardest part for me is taking a loose idea that feels very specific in my mind, and figuring out how to actually get it down on paper in a way that communicates it properly. Figuring out the right flow is such a big challenge but thankfully I get to work with amazing editors who have a brilliant understanding of these things. The most rewarding feeling is certainly getting to hold the finished printed book in my hands! And then to see it out in the world with children reading and interacting with it.
What were your favorite books to read as a kid?
The first picture books that come to mind are Roxaboxen and Miss Rumphius (both illustrated by the amazing Barbara Cooney) and the Brambly Hedge stories by Jill Barklem.
What was it like growing up in Germany and Belgium?
I loved my experience of growing up in Europe very much. I feel like I should clarify though that my parents are American and so my experience was that of a third culture kid. Not being fully immersed or part of any European culture but also not feeling fully American. It brings up strange feelings of identity. But I dearly dearly loved Europe and would still live there if we could (work and our American passports are keeping us on this side of the Atlantic for now.) I know I'm guilty of romanticizing lots of aspects of my childhood. Especially the small town on the edge of the Black Forest in Germany where I spent most of my childhood. The freedom of running free in the hills and forests and vineyards behind our house with my imagination has been formative in everything I create. The layers of history and nature are still an enormous inspiration.
Where is your favorite place to draw in New York besides your studio?
My days of drawing out and about are on pause at the moment because I pretty much always have my one year old son with me! But I miss the days of drawing while grabbing a pastry at a Maison Kayser cafe or jotting down ideas while riding the subway.
Where do you find inspiration?
Everywhere! In remembering feelings of where I grew up and travels. From time spent with close family and friends (my brother Collin is an amazing woodworker and we've had fun collaborating on occasion). My best friend Reba creates beautiful patterns and has inspired much of that work in me. I talk over everything I create with my wonderful husband Erik who is also an incredibly talented illustrator and graphic designer. Getting to see glimpses again of experiencing the world as a child through the eyes of our sweet little boy Llewyn is a new source of inspiration. I love plants and gardening and certain memories attached to specific flowers have always inspired me. I love interior design and the feeling of old spaces. Strange antiques and collections. Weird old picture books.
Frankie’s Favorite Book can be found in Illustoria’s Issue 9: FOOD On Our Bookshelf feature, which is available to order now. Many thanks to Tundra for sponsoring this issue.
Look Inside Issue #9: FOOD!
Drum roll please…. for Illustoria’s #9: The Food Issue! This first issue under our new publisher McSweeney’s is bursting with culinary delight, and is sure to satisfy any tummy rumbling for creativity. Feast your eyes on a delicious, impossibly groovy cover by illustrator Mar Hernández, in her signature bold and vibrant style.
Get inspired by food youth activists Rachel Parent (founder of non-profit Kids Right to Know), Ziyon Williams (volunteer at urban farm Acta Non Verba), and Mikaela Ulmer (founder of lemonade company Me&theBees) who share their stories of entrepreneurship in brilliant interviews.
Obsess over obscure facts about famous writers & their snacking habits in our ongoing series, Literary Giants, by Elizabeth Haidle.
Check out finger licking DIYs and recipes, with instructions for making broiled grapefruit, interviews with famous chefs, pancakes for your dogs, and paint brushes foraged from the wild!
Issue #9: FOOD is available now on McSweeney’s , as well as your or at your local favorite shop, newsstand, or bookstore, so order up!
Back-to-School Back Issues Bundle
Cover art by Marina Muun (Issue 6: Symbols), Rebecca Green (Issue 7: Black & White), Yuliya Gwilym (Issue 5: Motion)
Don’t miss our back-to-school back issues bundle! Receive Issue #5: Motion, Issue #6: Symbols, and Issue #7: Black & White or gift this bundle to your favorite teacher, librarian, kid, or bestie. Featuring the timeless work of dozens of celebrated children’s book artists and writers including the creators of Rad Women Worldwide, Yuko Higuchi, Mike Lowery, Shawn Harris, Esmé Shapiro, Rebecca Green, Marina Muun, Yuliya Gwilym, Paul Madonna, Lindsay Stripling, Alexis Joseph, and many more. Share your love of reading, writing, storytelling, and making with your family and community. Happy reading!