Sometime back in Kindergarten, I realized that I wanted to be an artist. I knew this for a fact all through high school. But in college, I realized how very impractical that was. I began a minor in art (just for fun, of course), and considered law, teaching, advertising, communications…you name it. By junior year, however, I realized I just couldn’t escape art. I changed my minor to a major, and got an internship at DC Comics (those are the guys who make Superman). When I graduated, I worked for Scholastic Books (those are the guys who make Clifford). That combo of Superman and Clifford gave me a great start in learning how to make things look fun and interesting for kids.
Since then I’ve illustrated and authored over 20 books for children, including “Noah’s Swim-A-Thon” which was a PJ Library selection, and ”My Cousin Tamar Lives in Israel” which was given a Notable Book designation by the Association of Jewish Libraries.
I also enjoy creating products of all kinds, and have designed everything from toys (Alma’s Designs) to calendars (Tide-Mark Press) to formal Ketubot. Many greeting card companies such as Hallmark, Papyrus and Great Arrow Graphics have featured my work. I work in two styles: Bold, graphic papercuts, and whimsical inviting paintings.
About My Papercuts
I create my papercuts with an x-acto knife, and a lot of patience. First, I cut complex designs from one or more sheets of solid papers. I then shift them around, to create interesting shadows, or matting effects. I then create the painted layer. This part is the most fun, because it usually involves splattering, spritzing and overall mess-making with vivid colors. To create the final look, I layer the cut out papers over the painted paper. The contrast of loose textures against the clean cut-lines create a visual dynamic that I really enjoy.
About My Paintings
My painted illustrations are created with vivid acrylic paints and are cheerfully inviting. They have included everything from a parachuting cow to a soaring penguin. My whimsical side definitely has the opportunity to come out and play in this style, and I enjoy bringing a fun perspective to even the most serious subjects.
Children’s Books
- Noah’s Swim-A-Thon (URJ Press, 2011)
- Chai Workbooks I, II & III (URJ Press, 2009)
- The Sun’s Special Blessing (Pitspopany, 2009)
- Shavua Tov! (URJ Press, 2008)
- Fireworks and Freedom (Barron’s Educational Publishing, 2007)
- My Cousin Tamar Lives in Israel (URJ Press, 2007)
- More Than Matzah (Barron’s Educational Publishing, 2006)
- Beyond Turkey (Barron’s Educational Publishing, 2005)
- The Big Book of Terrific Teaching Ideas II (URJ Press, 2004)
- Eight Lights for Eight Nights (Barron’s Educational Publishing, 2003)
- Passover (Compass Point Books, 2003)
- Shabbat Shalom! (UAHC Press, 2003)
- The Mitzvah Go-Round (Mesorah Publications, 2002)
- My First Book of Israel (Alma’s Designs, 2001)
- The Passover Press (Shulsinger Judaica, 2001)
- My Jewish Holiday Fun Book (UAHC Press, 2000)
- To Learn is To Do (UAHC Press, 2000)
- I Can! (Shulsinger Judaica, 1999)
- The Hanukkah Herald (Shulsinger Judaica, 1998)
- All About Passover (Shulsinger Judaica, 1997)
- My Jewish Counting Book (Shulsinger Judaica, 1997)
- The Big Book of Great Teaching Ideas (UAHC Press, 1997)
- Sefer Ha-Aggadah Volumes I & II (UAHC Press, 1997)