Chris Van Allsburg has established himself in the world of juvenile fiction and illustration as one of the most imaginative, successful and community-minded purveyors of the medium. His much-beloved books have been made into blockbuster movies (Jumanji, The Polar Express, Zathura), and his dedication to both imagination and education has placed him firmly in the category of “constructive human.” He has been the recipient of numerous awards, including Caldecott Medals and The National Book Award, and has been an on-and-off resident of New England for a good chunk of his later life.
This year the Brattleboro Museum and Arts Center has acquired enough of Van Allsburg’s material to put together an ongoing exhibition, dubbed The Magic of Chris Van Allsburg. The show includes original art from The Polar Express, The Mysteries of Harris Burdick (from which “Another Place, Another Time,” is pictured), Two Bad Ants, The Sweetest Fig and other Van Allsburg classics. Books and activities complete the fun for all ages, and fans of book illustration are encouraged to take advantage of this rare opportunity to view Van Allsburg’s originals in all their organic, textural glory.
Through Nov. 30, Brattleboro Museum and Arts Center, 10 Vernon St., Brattleboro, (802) 257-0124, www.brattleboromuseum.org.