December 4, 2021 – February 27, 2022
The playful, yet thoughtfully poignant artwork of children’s book illustrator Christian Robinson, celebrates his “art of fun” mantra while deftly and empathetically exploring the value of different perspectives and being kind to all.
Christian Robinson
Robinson, a Caldecott Honoree and recipient of two Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honors from the American Library Association, favors acrylic and collage to create joyful art conveying a range of stories, including historical events and biographies. Robinson, based in California, is also an animator who has worked with The Sesame Workshop and Pixar Animation Studios.
Robinson, who was born in Hollywood, California, grew up in a one-bedroom apartment with his brother, two cousins, aunt, and grandmother. Drawing was the way he made space for himself and thought about how to create the kind of world he wanted to see. Robinson’s books include Gaston and Antoinette, written by Kelly DiPucchio, and the #1 New York Times bestseller Last Stop on Market Street, written by Matt de la Peña, which was awarded a Caldecott Honor, a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor, and the Newbery Medal. Among the many enthusiastic reviews of Robinson’s artwork, one from Booklist acknowledges his expansive and colorful illustrations: “Robinson assures readers that no matter what difficulties they may encounter or how a person might feel, everyone matters . . . nonjudgmental and reassuring, a great choice for anyone experiencing a bad day.”
What Might You Do? The Art of Christian Robinson was organized by the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, Abilene, Texas.
Exhibition Highlights
Thanks to the members, donors, grantors, and sponsors who support exhibitions and programs.
BMO Harris Bank is the presenting sponsor of What Might You Do? The Art of Christian Robinson.
Educational support comes from Pamela and Gary J. Frary and from Sandra A. Ott. What Might You Do? exhibition marketing is supported in part by a Green Bay Packers Foundation grant. Marketing is supported in part by City of Wausau Room Tax funds. Exhibitions and programs are supported in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts. Art Kits are supported by a grant from M&T Charitable Foundation and Wilmington Trust.
