When I was in Boston two years ago I heard about the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. I didn't get a chance to visit but hope to next year. In case you don't know who Eric Carle is... remember the Very Hungry Caterpillar. Ah yes now you remember!
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. They hope to build bridges in appreciation of art of every kind and to provide an enriching, dynamic, and supportive context for the development of literacy.
So how do they go aout doing this?
They collect present and celebrate the art of the picture book from around the world by providing interactive experiences and programmes that are engaging and educational. The connections between visual and verbal literacy is really of interest to me.
All ages can explore this and given the chance children explore their own creativity in the art room and build confidence to enjoy and appreciate art of every kind.
It seems that this museum has got it right as they have exhibitions showing picture book art from around the world coupled with a hands-on art studio. They show plays, films and they have a comfortable library for story telling and reading. Plus a book store and coffee shop too. Ahh sounds great!
This seems to have taken a very child centred approach, it's sound particulairy engaging. I am hooked. There's great resource for teachers and librarians on the site too. Check out the museum
here.
