I was asked back again this year to do the graphic design for the Second Annual River City Reading Festival, an annual event that promotes reading to the Lawrence and surrounding communities. I was very excited to get to work with Lawrence-based artist/illustrator Lora Jost on a poster and series of bookmarks that advertised the event. The image above is the poster that Lora and I came up with for the event that happened last weekend.

I was able to be in possession of Lora’s original artwork for a couple of days to have it scanned and you wouldn’t believe how intricate the line work is.

The piece was created on scratchboard and it has a similar quality to a woodblock print. Lora’s work is really beautiful and I encourage you to check back here for a studio tour with Lora happening later this Fall!

These photos are from the event that took place at the Lawrence Public Library. The keynote speaker was Thomas Frank, author of What’s the Matter with Kansas? and The Wrecking Crew: How Conservatives Rule.

This is Bobbie Hinman, the author of The Knot Fairy. I loved the wings.

There were a bunch of storybook characters on hand and I haven’t seen that kind of excitement in kids for a long time!

There was also some art projects involving found materials.

There were a number of musicians on hand throughout the day to provide music.

Singer/songwriter Melanie Dill was there to perform some of her fun children’s music.

Another kids activity was to create your own book snake. I don’t know what a book snake is, but it was VERY popular!

Keep your eyes open for next year’s festival!