What Lies Beneath Exhibition

'The Last of the Maui's' picture book has had its outing at the What Lies Beneath Exhibition at the National Library (from 20/1/14 - 20/2/14). Now it is at Takapuna Library until the 28th March when it goes on show at the Gala Night, What Lies Beneath exhibition, National Library (8 Stanley Street, Parnell, Auckland) 6pm.  All invited (rsvp mariagill at ihug.co.nz). It is a chance for you to see all 16 exhibits together for one night only.

What does the exhibition reveal? Authors and illustrators in the exhibition will share what inspired them, you'll see drafts, storyboards, and proofs.

Writers are inspired by many different things. It might be something we are passionate about (like my Maui's dolphin story - I wanted to do something positive to spread the word that we need to help save them). Illustrators go through a different process. They'll research like us but are more likely influenced by visual images and they'll obsess over shape, colour, perspective, and sometimes font.

At the Gala night, you'll also hear authors and illustrators talk about the process of creating a book. Some will also share sneak peaks of books yet to be released.

There will be wine and nibbles, books for sale (and authors and illustrators available to sign them), and all the exhibition on show. Entry fee - gold coin donation. We look forward to seeing you there. Here are some images of 'The Last of the Maui's' picture book on show.

What have I been doing in the quiet month of January? Helping organise a fantastic exhibition of children's books.  The Gala Opening Night is on Monday 4th March from 5.30 - 7.30pm.  All are invited but it is essential that you RSVP because we are limited to 100 people. You'll meet on the night: David Elliot, Fifi Colston, Lindy Fisher, Robyn Belton, Kyle Mewburn, Donovan Bixley, Heather Arnold, Melinda Szymanik, and myself! We're part of a panel and afterwards you can ask us questions about the behind-the-scenes of creating a book.

But that is not all ...

Teachers, you could bring a group of 15 students to a Speed-date-an-Author/Illustrator the next day (Tuesday 5th March from 9.30 - 2pm) at the National Library. Students will do seven workshops with: David Elliot, Fifi Colston, Lindy Fisher, Robyn Belton, and Donovan Bixley - the illustrators, Kyle Mewburn, Melinda Szymanik and Maria Gill - the authors. During the break the students/teachers/parents can peruse the exhibition and ask the authors/illustrators firsthand burning questions about the books. See the poster below for details and how to book your class. Only seven x 15 group spaces available - so be in quick! Fees apply.



Teachers can also bring their class along to the exhibition during the month of March at the National Library email: simon.vincent@dia.govt.nz and also at Takapuna Library - email: belynda.smith@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz . There is no charge but you do need to book in advance.