The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: Mission and History
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art opened in November, 2002. "The mission of The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is to inspire, especially in children and their families, an appreciation for and an understanding of the art of the picture book." (Mission) The museum was founded by Eric Carle and his wife, Barbara. It is located in a 44,000 sq. ft., contemporary building on 7.5 acres in Amherst, Massachusetts.
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: Exhibitions and Programs
The exhibitions celebrate not only the work of Eric Carle, but the artistry of many other renowned picture book artists. While there are always changing exhibitions of Carle's work on display, the museum also features temporary exhibitions highlighting the work of other picture book artists, such as Maurice Sendak, Mitsumasa Anno, and Leo Lionni, to name a few. In addition to weekly storytimes for children, the museum presents public lectures, collage workshops, teacher training, performances, outreach programs and other events.
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art Web Site
While The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art's Web site is very helpful for anyone planning a trip to the facility, it also contains a lot of interesting information and artwork for those who live too far away to visit. For example, on the Resources page, you'll find links to a listing of twelve recommended picture books, as well as links to annual lists of Picture Books of Distinction. There's also an interesting article, "Suggestions for Sharing Picture Books with Young Children," and selected book reviews from the The Barbara Elleman Research Library (BERL) at the museum. There are also illustrated directions for a number of art activities you can do with your children.If you love children's picture books, you will find a great deal to interest you, both at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art and on its Web site. Enjoy!
