last week i was fortunate enough to be in NYC during the recently proclaimed  ’illustration week’

it started off with a delightful lunch with Lee Wade, Anne Schwartz and Emily Seife, where i learned the children’s book industry mantra “It’s a bunny eat bunny world”

here is a shot of their building

i was asked to make a mark on the sketch wall they have on their floor, i wasnt very prepared  but being the topic of motorcycles came up at lunch, i thought this guy could be a fun one to do. also on the wall J Otto Seibold, Elisha Cooper, among many others!

here is shot of the current titles wall at Random House

the sweet view of central park from my hotel before the ceremony/party at the NYTimes for the best illustrated books of the year. Thanks to Random House for treating me so well.

MOMA is always a favorite of mine, but this time i seemed to be drawn to the coat check tags, which are the same design that are used on dairy cattle tags from my childhood. oh and yeah Rodin rocks.

after MOMA i stopped by the Society of Illustrators for the 30th annual Original Art Show which showcases original art from recent children’s books.

here is the view from the Larchmont Hotel where i spent the rest of my week.

i had a wonderful Italian lunch with Chrystal, Paolo and Sophia at Le Zie on 7th Ave.

stopped by a few galleries in Chelsea, but was a bit more impressed with the sunset stroll on the HighLine.

was invited to the unofficial pre-party of  the American Illustration book launch, the Buzelli’s are very gracious hosts! The American Illustration American Photography book launch party was a good time as well, got to catch up with lots of artists and friends i hadnt seen recently.

i didnt bring wine to the party, instead i brought their delightful dog ‘Sota’ a little something.

thanks to Chris Buzelli for those last two images.

i am happy to announce that HERE COMES THE GARBAGE BARGE was picked in the New York Times top 10 best illustrated children’s books of 2010!! you can see the official list here

it is a crisp list of books, among them the lovely SHADOW, Christoph Neiman’s SUBWAY, and SEASONS among others. i am delighted to be included in such company.

the review for the Garbarge Barge is a bit ‘snarky’ (never thought this farmboy would have a need to use that term) but i will let everyone make up their own minds on Mrs. Schoemer’s thoughts…

i would like to extend by congratulations out to everyone and Schwartz and Wade who made this project  possible and to the author Jonah Winter.
AHOY!!