Children’s books serve a dual purpose – to entertain and educate young readers, while also reflecting the historical context and values of their time. The newest exhibition at the Stark Museum of Art, “Childhood Classics: 100 Years of Original Illustration” from the Art Kandy Collection was curated and organized by Lee Cohen and Lois Sarkisian in association with Landau Traveling Exhibitions. For over a quarter of a century, this innovative and influential gallery has featured original art from children’s books. Sarkisian and Cohen have collected, written about and lectured on illustration art at institutions such as UCLA, Harvard University and many other schools and museums across North America. In 2014, they established the online gallery Art Kandy, where they continue to introduce classic and contemporary illustrators to new generations.
On display through July 12, 2025, “Childhood Classics” celebrates the rich history of children’s book illustrations, showcasing the work of iconic illustrators who have shaped generations of young readers and highlights the artistry and storytelling behind these beloved books, featuring original works spanning from early 20th century pen and ink drawings by Sarah Noble Ives to modern digital illustrations by Mo Willems.
Among the featured works are illustrations by renowned artists such as Dr. Seuss, Maurice Sendak (“Where the Wild Things Are”) and Garth Williams (“Stuart Little”). Visitors will also enjoy pieces by classic illustrators including Rosemary Wells, Richard Scarry, Arnold Lobel and Hilary Knight. Beloved characters such as Babar, Eloise and The Cat in the Hat come to life in this journey through the history of children’s literature.
The exhibition includes exclusive special additions highlighting the legacy of Orange native Janette Sebring Lowrey, featuring illustrations from “The Poky Little Puppy” and “The Silver Dollar,” generously on loan from The Kerlan Collection of Children’s Literature at the University of Minnesota.
“The illustrations in Childhood Classics evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder,” said Jennifer Dickinson, executive director of the Stark Museum of Art. “We are excited to share this collection with our community, celebrating the timeless impact of these beloved stories.”
To celebrate even more, the museum will host a special Childhood Classics Open House on Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Throughout the day, enjoy guided drawing sessions featuring Peter Rabbit and The Poky Little Puppy, happening every hour – so if you miss one, there’s another chance to join. Guided tour times are 10:30 a.m. (Peter Rabbit), 11:30 a.m. (The Porky Little Puppy), 12:30 p.m. (Peter Rabbit) and 1:30 p.m. (The Porky Little Puppy).
Admission and all activities are free.
Members of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators will be in the lobby selling their original children’s books and sharing insights into the world of children’s literature, offering a great opportunity for aspiring authors and illustrators to learn more.
Plus, don’t miss a special visit from The Cat in the Hat, who will be stopping by for photos and fun throughout the event. Come explore the art of storytelling and relive childhood favorites with us!
In addition to “Childhood Classics,” be sure to visit “Off the Shelf: Children’s Literature of The W.H. Stark House,” on display in Hallway 3 of the Stark Museum of Art through Dec. 20, 2025.
The Stark Museum of Art is open Wednesday – Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located 712 Green Ave. in downtown Orange.