ErinsIllArt

By Michael Chung
Staff Writer
Several illustrators are out to
prove that their work is far from
child’s play.
The 17th annual Children’s Books
Illustrators Exhibit,
which features
original artwork by several artists,
began on Jan. 19 at the Sun Gallery in
Hayward.
The exhibit runs through April 28
at the gallery, located at
1015 E St. A
reception in which visitors will have
an opportunity to meet the artists,
will also be held at the gallery on Feb. 4 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Artist Erin Schroeder showcased
her illustrations from the book,
“The
Helpful Hound ...
and the Days of the Week!”
which was written by Declan
Flannery.
“I was connected with a very
passionate writer with this sweet
little story about a dog that tries to do
helpful deeds in contrast to his nature,
taking out the trash and helping with
the laundry,”
Schroeder said. “Then, in
the end, he saves the day when there
is a fire in the house, and he barks
and saves the family. The story gave
me such fun visuals of a dog making
messes, I had to do it.”
Before illustrating the book, Schroeder,
who was born in Los Angeles,
said she only “dabbled” in children’s
illustrations.
Schroeder added that the “magical
and enchanting realm” of children’s
book illustrations is now her main
focus.
“For me, painting children’s art is
like playing in a daydream,” Schroeder
said. “There are so many bright colors,
and just about anything is possible.”
Schroeder is illustrating two children’s
books, “Knocking on a Dream
Door” by Jeremiah Turner and “The
Owl and the Pussy Cat” by Edward
Lear, which will be released this year. - The Pioneer News