URI’s Providence campus is featuring a two-story exhibit called “Imagination! The World of Children’s Book Illustrations” that’s free and open to the public. If you get down there tonight (oops, which is now), you’ll make the opening reception, which features both book signings and readings. If not, you can still see the work of thirty-five different artists from all types of beautiful and zany books (pictured here are illustrations by Tammie Lyon for Eloise’s Pirate Adventure and My Pup). It’s a M-F exhibit, but you can catch a special Saturday reading this weekend only. Along with original artwork from dozens of books, the exhibit includes several concept drawings, which is pretty cool.
URI’s lobby is at 80 Washington Street (across from Lupo’s), but if you enter the back door (255 Westminster, across from the outdoor movie screen), you’ll immediately be immersed in the artwork. Don’t forget to turn around as you walk up the stairs to the second floor, where the gallery continues. There’s a big ol’ painting behind you.
Reception/book signing: tonight until 9pm. Readings: Thursday 6:30pm, and Saturday September 19th at 10am.
General exhibit is open Mon-Thurs 9am to 9pm, and Fridays 9am to 4pm through September 30th.