SLJ Leadership Summit 2010: Paul O. Zelinsky's High/Low Tech Show
RSSBy Kathy Ishizuka
If a single moment at the School Library Journal Leadership Summit captured where we are right now—on the cusp of the digital revolution—it was a presentation by illustrator Paul O. Zelinsky. The video follows:
This article originally appeared in the newsletter Extra Helping. Go here to subscribe. This is a wonderful explanation of the value of picture books. Turning the page to see the next picture following the story is always an "ah ha" moment which can only exist in picture books. Pictures will lead the child into hearing the words. The book will be read to the child, and the child will say,"read it again" if it's a successful book. Prediction is always an important component to this process. This is the same process which should exist in chapter books. Zelinsky's books have always garnered the "read it again" review. Then the children will read it on their own. We will have a nation of readers because the picture book is still alive and well. Just read about the "Magic Box" in the December issue of School Library Journal and had to view the video. Mr. Zelinsky has always shown magic in his art. This video shows what a true artist he is by giving insight into just what goes into his work. Thank you from a 30-year Children's Librarian. Picture books will always be a part of my life and I hope of the lives I have touched over the years. * = Required information
"I'm in love with the picture book," the Caldecott Medal winner told attendees during his October 23 talk. "I hope they never get replaced. I hope the iPad isn't doing what Patrick [Carman] says it's doing." At the same time, Zelinsky said, "I don't know what's going to happen. I'm not a Luddite and I don't believe in doing things the old way just for the sake of it."
What followed was a fascinating look at Zelinsky's process of illustrating the book Swamp Angel (Dutton, 1994) written by Anne Isaacs and its follow up Dust Devil (Random House, 2010). Demonstrating the merging of old and new technology, Zelinsky described his search for the perfect organic materials for his illustrations (real wood veneers), while later in the program he revealed his drawing technique, perfecting the round contours of a horse in Photoshop. However, the best mashup was his steampunk-inspired tracing machine.
Reader Comments (2)
Posted by Deborah Hallen on October 26, 2010 11:33:21PM
Posted by Mindy Riegert on December 8, 2010 04:47:58PM
