Itsy Bitsy Spider
9.30.22
On a lovely day, I visited our local museum, delighted to see scores of fourth graders from a nearby school discovering the delights of the water, sculptures, and flowers.
Near one little house on the property, I heard two boys noticing with delight a spider and its web tucked into the corner of a window.
What a treat they found for me! I created this image by combining a straight photo of the window with an abstract background of gorgeous colors in a multiple exposure.
Does it feel like a children’s book illustration to you? It does to me. Emma Middleton, a picture book author, illustrator, and children’s performer, says that “for young children, illustrated books open the door to understanding story.” Illustration, she explains, “encourages active interpretation and engagement.”
We know from the colors that this is not a creepy spider, but a friendly one. It has made a cozy web. And, as in real life, the area around the web is messy, with hints of other flora and fauna sprinkled throughout. You can imagine any curious little girl or boy wanting to peer ito this magical window nook.
9.30.22