Out of the Box: The Graphic Novel Comes of Age

The graphic novel is arguably the single most exciting new development in illustrated literature for children and teens in a generation. As pioneers of a rapidly evolving art form, graphic novelists continue to explore the vast middle ground between the picture book and text-only narrative. Out of the Box examines the graphic novel’s coming of age through a close look at ten poignant coming-of-age stories by Vera Brosgol, Catia Chien, Geoffrey Hayes, Gene Luen Yang, Jarrett J. Krosoczka, Hope Larson, Matt Phelan, David Small, Raina Telgemeier, and Sara Varon. An illustrated catalogue, with an essay by curator Leonard S. Marcus, will be published.

This exhibition is made possible with generous support from Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and Scholastic, Inc.

Exhibition design by Katie Craig. 

Eric Carle Makes a Book

“As I work on the book, I love it. I hate it. I think it’s awful, and I think it’s wonderful,” says Eric Carle. Learn where Carle finds his story inspirations and how he turns an idea into a published book. An in-depth look at four beloved titles—From Head to Toe (1997), “Slowly, Slowly, Slowly” Said the Sloth (1999), The Very Clumsy Click Beetle (2002), and 10 Little Rubber Ducks (2005)—takes visitors through the book-development process, from Carle’s thumbnail sketches and dummy books to his finished collages. Also on view are alternate book covers and unpublished artwork. A look at book mechanics—folds, flaps, lights, sounds, and die cut holes—demonstrate how Carle has pushed the limits of printing in the creation of his classic children’s books. A special section presents the artist’s book ideas that were never made—and have never before been shared with the public. 

This exhibition is made possible through the generous support of the Hsin-Yi Foundation, with additional support from Penguin Young Readers.

Exhibition design by Katie Craig.