Exhibit follows book illustration process

ALLENDALE, Mich. - Patricia Polacco was 41 years old when she started writing and illustrating her children's books. Numbering in the dozens, the books have received critical acclaim and numerous awards for her outstanding contributions to children's literature and book illustration. One book will be highlighted in an educational art exhibit at Grand Valley State University.

"My Ol' Man by Patricia Polacco:  A Children's Book from Concept to Completion," will be exhibited at the GVSU Art Gallery, Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus, from January 7 to February 1. An opening reception is planned for Thursday, January 17. All works in this exhibition are on loan from the Muskegon Museum of Art, Gifts of the Artist in Honor of Karen Shields.

Born near Lansing, in 1944, the artist draws from true experiences of her storytelling family and often teaches lessons of diversity. Unable to read until age 14, when a teacher realized she was dyslexic, Polacco devotes much time encouraging and corresponding with young readers. Though she has an extensive Website, patriciapolacco.com, she does not use e-mail.

The nearly 40 items in the exhibit are hung low on the walls, to accommodate the eye level of children. Information panels introduce and explain professional publishing terms for aspiring illustrators and authors. Polacco's original studies, photos and final illustrations in this exhibit are not only fun to look at, but are valuable learning tools for following the process of creating a children's book.

My Ol' Man, tells the story of the artist's father, William Barber, who was a fun-loving, flimflamming, traveling salesman. It captures her colorful memories of summers spent in Lansing. Polacco, whose parents divorced when she was 3, grew up mostly with her mother in Oakland, Calif., where she lived for more than thirty years. She currently lives in Union City, Mich., near the location of what was once her grandparents' farm and is still a source of inspiration.

This collection of works demonstrates Polacco's ability to weave engaging personal narratives from words and art, from concept to completion. Admission is free. School groups interested in visiting the exhibit should contact the gallery at (616) 331-2564.