Yet Another Fantastic Year!

Are you sure it's the end of 2011 already? What a whirlwind of a year! In the continued difficult economic climate, we are ever more appreciative of the blessings in our lives, especially YOU! You know the value in shopping "small," and we are honored that you help to support your local community. It's a no-brainer that more of your money stays within the local economy when you shop small independent businesses like Chemers Gallery, and we'd just like to say that you're doing a great job! Keep it up!


Even though times are tough, we haven't let it get us down. In fact, we've been busier than ever planning tons of events for your pleasure and, oh yes, showing off the ART!

Big Red, acrylic on board by Ian Paul

Chemers Gallery welcomed several new artists throughout the year. Painting buddies Dori Dewberry, Julie Hill and Dana Cooper joined our ranks this summer and have been delighting us with their sparkling personalities, beautiful pastels, watercolors and oil scenes. Recent Long Beach State University graduate Ian Paul joined us after showing his contemporary acrylic works at our annual Tustin Art League exhibition. (By the way, Ian not only one an Honorable Mention & the People's Choice Award at the show, but he also won Best of Show at the Bower's Museum & exhibited his work at the Tangata Restaurant!) Anthony Salvo delighted our visual pallets with his yummy dessert paintings. Toward the end of the year we met Linda Reed and her beautiful fused glass mosaic panels. We were also introduced to Susan Horton's beautifully woven textiles this year. She even brought her loom to share how she creates her scarves and shawls.

Tug-of-War, mixed media on board by Laurie Meseroll

We also welcomed new work from favorite artists. Mixed media artist Laurie Meseroll sent us several whimsical pieces made with paint, fabric, paper, glitter and even essential oils! We carried her art years ago and Karen was finally able to convince her to send more. Also keeping us stocked with whimsical treasures was Kristina Swarner. Her small prints are simply enchanting.

Afternoon Delight, oil on board by Jim Wodark

We say it again and again, but Jim Wodark just keeps getting better and better! As a plein air painter who continuously strives to challenge himself and push his art further, Jim keeps bringing us beautiful landscapes and marina scenes while entering (and winning!) competitions all over the place. In September, Jim was featured in a 5 page article in Plein Air Magazine. We're talking about an upcoming show that will feature a large body of work from this tremendous talent - details TBA!

California Street, oil on canvas by Carol Jessen

Carol Jessen sent us urban scenes that were snapped up immediately. At least we had the chance to take pictures of them this time!

Aquamarine Light, pastel by Mary Aslin

We welcomed new pastels from Mary Aslin, new watercolors from Pete Roberts and new oil paintings of local landscapes from John Sawyer. John Baughman visited us all the way from Michigan to show us what new abstract avenues he and his wife, Jan, are exploring in their works on paper. Bonnie Holmes visited us whenever she was in town to show us her latest small oils or the newest creation she was knitting. We are thrilled to have new ceramics from Maria Counts and Itsuko Zenitani, as well as glass light catchers, soap dishes and trays from Leona Hawks. We've also received funky, one of a kind ceramic vessels from Lisa Mertins, who you may remember as the illustrator of Jim Doti's children's book, A Christmas Adventure in Little Italy.

Serenity, oil on canvas by Jennie Tomao

Sadly, we also lost a favorite creative talent this year. Jennie Tomao passed away in May but her memory lives on in the lives she touched through her gracious spirit and beautifully rendered landscapes and still life.

As if all that art wasn't enough, Chemers kept busy with events, shows, demonstrations and lectures!


February was a busy month for us. We kicked off the year with our Eye Candy Jewelry Trunk Show, featuring talented jewelers Michelene Berkey from Colorado, local gal Joanna Craft, Amy Kekst from Ohio, semi-local Barbara Lanci, mother-daughter team Dina & Liz Yesachar and fused glass artist Linda Warwick-Smith. Textile artist Mary Hammond spent the day with us too and showcased her uniquely artistic scarves. A short few days later we hosted "Escape from Sobibor" with Philip Bialowitz, a survivor of the Nazi death camp Sobibor. His lecture on escaping the death camp by joining a prisoner-led revolt was deeply moving and impactful. We rounded out the month with a show of student work from the Laguna College of Art and Design.

Kevin Davidson and Marsha Lindsey, TAL

In April and May we hosted our 4th annual open exhibition with the Tustin Art League, but this year there was a twist. We also hosted a show simultaneously with the United Society of Pastel Artists. Not only did the exhibitions showcase our talented local artists, they also introduced us to new styles and techniques and gave us a deeper appreciation for the pastel medium.

Julie Hill demonstrates her watercolor technique

Throughout the summer, the Enderle Center hosted a monthly summer concert series. Chemers Gallery invited our artists to join in the festivities by bringing their studios to us! While the live music was happening on our doorstep, visitors to the center were treated to an opportunity to watch some of their favorite artists paint, draw and weave. Patrons were able to chat with our artists and ask them questions about their process and technique. We plan on making artist demonstrations a regular thing here at Chemers - stay tuned for details!

Karen continued her lectures for OLLI on the world of children's book illustration. This time she put participants to work creating their own children's book with a team. Look for her upcoming lecture on printmaking techniques for OLLI in 2012.

Elisa Kleven, Karen, Ellen, Robin Preiss Glasser, Lou Fancher, Rita, Steve Johnson, Mary GrandPre, Raul Colon, Liz, Jennifer

Of course, who could forget the Big One, the mother of all events, our 20th Annual Children's Book Illustrations Art Show & Book Signing? Featuring the talents of Robin Preiss Glasser, Raul Colon, Elisa Kleven, Mary GrandPre and Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher, this year was definitely the busiest it's ever been! Our returning all-star artists delighted us with whimsical, adorable, sophisticated, stunning and downright BEAUTIFUL book illustration. We had such a hard time choosing what to frame and hang on the walls - it was all so magical! For the first time, Chemers Gallery partnered with Chapman University's College of Educational Studies K-12 Literacy Programs.

One of the biggest changes at Chemers Gallery during 2011 was that long-time staff member, Cathy, moved to Washington state. She and her husband were fulfilling a life-long dream to live in the Pacific Northwest. We hear she's happy and showing her pastels in a local venue, and we wish her nothing but the best!

We are so very thankful for the role we can play in our community and so incredibly grateful to the art lovers that have continued to show their support at Chemers Gallery. We'll see you in 2012!

Karen, Jennifer, Robert, Corey, Mary & Rita

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Happy Holiday from Chemers Gallery

Wishing you a splendiferous holiday!

Welcome Santa from Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas
Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser

We are so grateful to have you, our kind and loyal patrons!
Thank you for your continued support - we are honored to know you.

Have a happy and safe holiday!

Chemers Gallery Holiday Hours
12-25: CLOSED
12-26: CLOSED (We need a break!)
12-27 - 12-30: 10a-6p
12-31: 10a-2p-ish (please call for afternoon shopping)
1-1: CLOSED (Happy New Year!)
1-2 - 1-3: CLOSED for inventory
1-4: 10a-6p back to regular hours

Share the Love!

Although it's been 2 weeks, we are still recovering from our annual Children's Book Illustration Show! We keep saying it, but this year's turnout was way beyond our wildest imaginations - THANK YOU!!!

Robin Preiss Glasser shared the inspiration for the look of Fancy Nancy
Photo by Diane Browning

Local illustrator Diane Browning just came in to take one last look at the show before it comes down and to share her lovely blog post with us. We're always so swamped inside that we rarely get a chance to head out back to the tent to listen to our talented illustrators give their presentations, and this year was no exception. Diane was one of the lucky ones that not only made it out back but also one who managed to snag a seat! We hope you'll head on over to her blog to read all about the talks given by Raul Colon, Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher, Robin Preiss Glasser, Elisa Kleven and Mary GrandPre!

Chemers Gallery Holiday Hours
Sun (12-18): 12p-4p
Mon - Fri (12-19 -- 12-23): 10a - 7p
Sat (12-24): 10a - 2p-ish call for afternoon shopping
Sun (12-25): CLOSED
Mon (12-26): CLOSED (We need a break!)
Tues-Fri (12-27 -- 12-30): 10a - 6p
Sat (12-31): 10a - 2p-ish call for afternoon shopping
Sun (1-1): CLOSED
Mon & Tue (1-2 -- 1-3): CLOSED for inventory
Back to our usual hours Wed (1-4)

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Thank You for Making it Our Biggest Show Ever!

Just a peek at our biggest show yet! Even after 20 years, we are still floored by the volume of art admirers and book lovers that pass through our doors for our annual Children's Book Illustration Art Show & Book Signing! Saturday's show was probably the busiest it's ever been, and we have you, our valued clientele, talented illustrators and generous volunteers to thank for it. You rock our world!


If you missed out on the big day you have until December 17th to see our walls decked out with original children's book illustrations. Your pre-ordered books are ready for you to pick up. If you still need to pick out a gift for someone, we have boxes of signed books from each illustrator for you to choose from.

Stay tuned for more pictures from the
20th Annual Children's Book Illustration Art Show & Book Signing!
Featured artists
Robin Preiss Glasser | Mary Grandpre
Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher
Raul Colon | Elisa Kleven

Fancy Nancy Prints? C'est Magnifique!

First of all, can we just tell you what a huge deal this is? Robin Preiss Glasser, illustrator extraordinaire of the Fancy Nancy series, has not only released her original Fancy Nancy illustrations for the first time ever, but she's also allowed us - and only us! - to create limited edition prints of her artwork for purchase!! Huge, right?

We've created 5 different limited edition prints, one from each of the larger Fancy Nancy books. Robin isn't parting with all of her Fancy Nancy artwork so many of these images aren't available any other way.

"Bedazzled Boudoir" from Fancy Nancy
image size 26 1/2 x 15 1/2

$500

"DeVine Delectables" from Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy
image size 14 1/4 x 15 1/2

$300

"Bonjour Buddies" from Fancy Nancy: Bonjour, Butterfly
image size 17 1/2 x 15 1/2

$300

"Simply Splendiferous" from Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas
image size 15 1/2 x 15 1/2

$300

"Decisions, Decisions" from Fancy Nancy and the Fabulous Fashion Boutique
image size 16 x 15 1/2

$300

Each Fancy Nancy print is signed and numbered by the artist and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

Come into Chemers Gallery to view original artwork from Robin Preiss Glasser and see the Fancy Nancy limited edition prints. Help us spread the word!

Don't forget - our 20th Annual Children's Book Illustration Art Show & Book Signing is only days away! Join us Saturday, December 3rd from 1-5pm to meet the illustrators, view and purchase their original works of art and pick out some of your favorite books for signing.

Karen's Illustration Picks!

OMG! It’s our 20^th year celebrating Children’s Books and their charming, thought provoking, stimulating, moving, sophisticated, scary, wistful, historical, cute, lavish, old world, creative, just gotta have it ILLUSTRATIONS…

We have been so fortunate to touch so many hearts with the works of over 50 illustrators over the past 20 years. From our clients who buy the books (many for themselves) to the youthful recipients to our beneficiary organizations we are grateful. Some of the organizations we have benefited over the years include Ronald McDonald House, The Wooden Floor (formerly Saint Joseph Ballet), Orangewood, Big Brother Big Sisters, Marconi Foundation for Kids and currently Chapman University College of Educational Studies K-12 Literacy Programs.

To our volunteers helping us to prepare for the event and work the day of the show, we could not do it without you! That includes friends, family, clients, past employees and our beneficiary organization and our great Chapman intern, Ellen… we love you all!

To Jennifer, Robert & Corey (and James), Chemers Gallery stellar staff, you are the best. You made it all come together with our minimal crew. Thank you. We can almost breathe a sigh of relief.

What can I say about my mother, Rita Chemers, who had the original inspiration for this even and Chemers Gallery so many years ago. Thank you for instilling in me the love of art, books & giving back to the community and most of all the opportunity to carry on the traditions you started.

This year… ah, this year… our five returning artists continue to make us smile. And now I have the difficult task of picking my favorites from each, so here goes… in alpha order.

Bowing On Stage, watercolor & pencil by Raul Colon

Our handsome Raul Colon, who comes to visit us every year when he is in California, amazes me with his use of colored pencil. The artwork that leaves me breathless this year has very little color. The piece is from Alicia Alonso Prima Ballerina, written by Carmen T. Bernier-Grand, where Alicia is taking a bow after her performance of Swan Lake at the Metropolitan Opera House. The book is all poetry about this Cuban born dancer and overcoming many forms of adversity. The piece I chose is done solely in shades of yellow and brown to create stunning inner beauty. Raul has very carefully calculated every fine detail. And by the way, our framing job on this work es muy bueno!

Sunday Art Show, pen & ink & watercolor by Robin Preiss Glasser

Robin Preiss Glasser you are an enigma with a huge spirit. I guess my favorite illustration would have to be the Sunday art show from Fancy Nancy Aspiring Artist written by Jane O’Connor. It is all about the ART, after all. This illustration shows Robin’s talent in narrating a story through pictures and the joy of Nancy’s character. For me, this sums up the experience we feel in putting together our illustration show and the fun everyone has who attends the event. I don’t think we could have said it any better!

Lucia in the Woods, pastel by Mary GrandPre

We are so lucky to have Mary Grandpre with us again. Mary has been working in a variety of media recently, but her pastels are still my favorite works. I gasped when I uncovered the protective matting of the cover image from Lucia and the Light, written by Phyllis Root. This piece is magical, from the glowing light in Lucia’s hand to the toes on the trees. The richness of Mary’s pastel is beyond compare. We used the fabulous storybook frame to complete the tale… it couldn’t be more perfect. Sorry, it’s already sold, and unfortunately… not to me.

Leaving the Tree, mixed media by Johnson & Fancher

The ever so clever Lou Fancher and Steve Johnson are so creative in their use of different media and techniques to stimulate imagination. There are so many I love from Bugtown Boogie, written by Warren Hanson, that you could open the book and point to any page and I would love it. But, I think I’ll pick the page toward the end of the book where the bugs are marching out of the tree. The little boy crouches watching them file out. This illustration is a little less colorful, but displays the wonder and curiosity of a little boy. The glow of light coming from the tree makes you want to stay and enjoy just a little while longer.

Over the World, mixed media by Elisa Kleven

Teeny tiny Elisa Kleven’s teeny tiny collage work is crazy. I can’t imagine taking the time to cut all the little tiny people to make the illustrations in her book The Weaver written by Thacher Hurd. I love how the girl in the red dress is flying over the ocean holding her weaving of the world’s wonders. I’m a sucker for anything that has to do with peace for humankind and protection of our environment. This illustration just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy.

Our friend Matthew Cruz was in today and said “This is your favorite show isn’t it?” I had to reply, “Yes, it is.” I guess he could see the glitter in my eyes when I talk about the show. I hope you all come and experience the wonderland created by our extraordinary illustrators on December 3^rd, 2011 from 1-5 pm. If not, you have 2 weeks to view the work in its entirety… We’ll be waiting for you!

This just in! The Newport Beach Independent wrote a fantastic article all about our show! Head on over to their site to read the latest buzz.

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Jennifer's Book Picks!

Books books and more books! I love books. I love to read. I love it so much that my house is stuffed with books that overflow into every nook and cranny I can find. That's partly why I love this time of year at Chemers Gallery, when we expand into the world of children's literature. The other part is because I love seeing the original artworks used to create the pages in the stories. There's nothing like viewing the original illustrations and then being able to meet the talented individuals who create those stunning visuals.

But back to the books! Here are just a few of my faves...

Once Upon a Time: Traditional Latin American Tales
Written by Rueben Martinez
Illustrated by Raul Colon

Martina the Cockroach, Watercolor & Pencil

I collect books of folk and fairy tales from around the world, so Rueben Martinez's book Once Upon a Time is a no-brainer for me. Filled with Latin folk tales and beautifully illustrated in Raul Colon's signature style, I can just about hear Rueben's voice as I read the stories. My favorite has to be "Martina the Cockroach," the prettiest roach in town who is wooed by Perez the mouse's soft singing voice. Written in both English and Spanish, this is a great book for an older reader.

Fancy Nancy: Aspiring Artist
Written by Jane O'Connor
Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser

Hanging Pictures, Pen & Ink and Watercolor

As an (aspiring) artist myself, I can relate to Fancy Nancy's desire to turn her clubhouse into an art studio to make "gorgeous works of art." In Fancy Nancy: Aspiring Artist, Nancy spends her spring vacation learning about Degas, Monet and Matisse. She even hosts a Jackson Pollock day! At the end of the week she and her friends stage an artist reception for their friends and family. We see Nancy's artistic development progress through Robin's adorable pen & ink and watercolor illustrations and learn Nancy's fancy words like "beret" and "portrait" in her conversational style.

Camille Saint-Saens's The Carnival of the Animals
Illustrated by Mary GrandPre

Tortoise, Mixed Media

Originally The Carnival of the Animals was composed as a musical suite in 1886 by Camille Saint-Saens. He wrote it to describe various animals in musical form, but only allowed it to be preformed twice in his lifetime so as to avoid hurting his reputation as a composer. It's also thought that some of the movements are written as a parody of certain characteristics of his friends (perhaps the Donkeys of the Wild!). It wasn't until the 1940's that a set of verses were written to accompany the music. This particular edition, complete with stunning mixed media illustrations from Mary GrandPre, comes with a CD of the music so you can have the full experience of sound, text and visual art. What a great idea for a musical piece!

For the Love of Music: The Remarkable Story of Maria Anna Mozart
Written by Elizabeth Rusch
Illustrated by Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher

Maria at the Piano, Mixed Media

For the Love of Music really speaks to me because of my years of singing in a choir. The book is broken up into sections headed by musical terminology and is the perfect book for any music lover. It tells the story of Maria Anna Mozart, Wolfgang's older sister. Although she was a musical genius in her own right, Maria lacked the same opportunities her brother had and much of her life is shrouded in mystery. We learn through Johnson & Fancher's magnificent fabric and paint collage illustrations about the close relationship Maria and Wolfgang shared.

Welcome Home, Mouse
Written & Illustrated by Elisa Kleven

In the Store, Mixed Media

Welcome Home, Mouse snuck up on me but it's turned into one of my favorites. Stanley is a very clumsy elephant with an enormous heart. It's not hard to feel for this little guy - all he wants to do is help, but he just can't help knocking over wedding cakes or breaking little mouse houses in the process. When Stanley's mother sends him to the store for more tomatoes, he meets Mouse when he accidentally breaks her humble abode. He feels so bad that he sets about making amends in the sweetest of ways. Elisa's charming illustrations are a perfect match to this adorable story.

Don't forget! You have until November 26th to pre-order your books, or until each illustrator has sold 200 books, whichever comes first. The deadline is fast approaching, so hurry in. You don't want to miss out and you for sure don't want to see how stressed out we can get! We can help you choose which books to order and we'll even take care of having them signed and dedicated for you. For a complete book list, follow this link. To check out the artwork for all the illustrators, just click their names and pictures above.

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Children's Book Illustration Event of the Century!

Twenty years have gone by in a blink! Over the years, Chemers Gallery has brought you some of the literary world's most noted children's book illustrators and we're not slowing down yet! This year marks our 20th Annual Children's Book Illustrators Art Show & Book Signing and we've pulled out the big guns to note the occasion. With over 50 books and more than 300 original illustrations to choose from, we're sure you'll agree that this is going to be one of our best shows yet!

20th Annual Children's Book Illustrators Art Show & Book Signing
at
Chemers Gallery
17300 17th St, Ste. G
Tustin, CA 92780
714-731-5432

Featuring
Raul Colon | Robin Preiss Glasser | Mary Grandpre
Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher | Elisa Kleven

Signing & Reception
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011, 1 - 5 pm
show continues through December 17th

Benefiting Chapman University College of Educational Studies,
K-12 Literacy Programs

Books and original illustrations are available for pre-sale from now until November 26th or until each illustrator has sold 200 books, whichever comes first. Be sure to come in early to pick your books so you don't miss out! You'll still be able to purchase books the day of the show, but we can't guarantee that we'll have all titles available. Click HERE for the 2011 book list.


We'll take care of having your pre-ordered books signed and dedicated by the illustrators. They'll be ready for you at the show on December 3rd, but don't stress if you can't make it that day. You can pick them up any time after the reception at your convenience.

You can meet the illustrators the day of the reception, watch their demonstrations throughout the afternoon, view and purchase their original illustrations. Clients who purchase illustrations will be invited to a private dinner with the illustrators. Click HERE for the lecture schedule.

We welcome our talented illustrators:

Raul Colon
2003, 2007
Known for his velvety textures and smooth lines, Raul is back for the 3rd time with a wonderful array of Latin-inspired illustrations. Raul uses a watercolor wash, colored pencils and sharp instruments to scratch into the paper, thus achieving his unique style. A recent collaboration with local bookshop owner Rueben Martinez led to Once Upon a Time: Traditional Latin American Tales. Meet Rueben at our book signing, too!



Robin Preiss Glasser
2006
Working exclusively in pen & ink and watercolor, Robin brings the characters in the Fancy Nancy series into being by using layers of detail and humor. The latest of Fancy Nancy's exploits are featured in Fancy Nancy: Fashion Boutique and Fancy Nancy: Stellar Stargazer. Robin has also collaborated with Lynne Cheney and Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, to educate young readers on patriotism and etiquette. For the first time, Robin's original Fancy Nancy illustrations are available to the public! We will also be introducing 5 limited edition prints from the Fancy Nancy books also available for presale.

Mary Grandpre
2000
Although best known for bringing Harry Potter to life, Mary has worked on numerous other children's picture books and chapter books for young adults. Working in a "soft geometry" style, Mary's jewel-toned pastels and mixed media work sing with vibrancy. She brings a strategic problem-solving approach to her illustration work. Mary's latest book, How The Leopard Got His Claws, is an African fable teaching loyalty.

Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher
2003, 2007
Husband and wife team Johnson & Fancher have over 35 books to their credit including Amazing Peace by Maya Angelou and most recently Jim Henson: The Guy Who Played With Puppets. Working in media ranging from collage materials of fabric, paper, acrylic & oil paint to oil & ink on gessoed paper, Steve & Lou's illustrations flawlessly convey the heart and soul of every book they work on.

Elisa Kleven
1993, 2001, 2008
Returning for the fourth time to Chemers Gallery, Elisa's magical illustrations are brought to life through mixed media collages. Her dreamy watercolors are accented with teeny tiny bits of papers, lace and fabric. In addition to illustrating, Elisa also writes many of her charming, whimsical stories. Her latest books include The Friendship Wish and Thacker Hurd's The Weaver.




This year, Chemers Gallery has chosen Chapman University College of Educational Studies K-12 Literacy Programs as the beneficiary for our event. CES provides world class tutoring to K-6 grade students regardless of financial resources and creates custom libraries of books for students to take home. They also provide after school programs in the community and a pathway to bring 1st generation students to the university level.

Although the illustrations reproduced in the books are wonderful, there is nothing like seeing the original illustration in person. Expand your collection or start a collection for someone you love. Don't wait until your favorite is sold - come see them today!

We would especially like to thank Hilary Kaye & HKA for all of their hard work in helping us promote this year's show!

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Come for the Art & Books and Stay All Day!

Ronald Himler speaking at the 18th Annual Children's Book Illustration Show, 2009

Don't forget to mark your calenders! The 20th Annual Children's Book Illustration Art Show & Book Signing is fast approaching, and we don't want you to miss out! It all happens Saturday, December 3, 1 - 5pm.

Schedule of
Talks & Demonstrations by the Illustrators & Authors

1:45 Rueben Martinez: "Once Upon a Time: My Story"
2:10 Raul Colon: "Art Think & Picture Books"
2:35 Robin Preiss Glasser: "Putting It Together"
3:00 Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher: "Collaboration: Q & A"
3:25 Elisa Kleven: "From Scribbles & Scraps to Magic"
3:50 Mary GrandPre: "Creating Characters: Secrets Revealed"

While you're picking up your signed books, meeting the artists and viewing the original illustrations adorning our walls, why not pop out our back door and spend some time listening to your favorite illustrators & authors speak?

Do you have questions for Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher about what it's like to work on the same illustrations together? Have you ever wondered who inspired Robin Preiss Glasser's interpretation of Fancy Nancy or how Mary GrandPre brought Harry Potter to life? Are you curious about how and why local entreprenuer and author Rueben Martinez bridged the gap from running a barber shop in downtown Santa Ana to owning a bookstore? Do Elisa Kleven's intricate illustrations leave you begging to know just how she does it? Ever thought about how Raul Colon's art & picture books go hand in hand? Now's your chance to get the answer to these questions and more!

Lectures and presentations are free of charge and open to everyone.

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Jewelry Worth Falling For

Our jewelry counters and cases are overflowing with gorgeous new designs from some of your favorite jewelry artists. Hurry in to check out the latest from Ayala Bar, Angie Olami and Anne Koplik!

Fall in love with the new collection of necklaces and earrings from Ayala Bar!

Dazzling earrings and bold necklaces in bright colors and patterns make up the latest of Ayala Bar's 2011 Fall/Winter Collection. The Israeli artist redesigns her line every six months, making her a very busy lady who is always on top of the trends. Her background in theater and interior design give her jewels a dramatic flair. Ayala favors glass beads, Swarovski crystals, mineral stones and fabric in her stunning limited edition creations.

Step back in time with Angie Olami's sterling silver and Roman glass adornments!

Travel-lover Angie Atkins uses Roman glass that is 2,000 years old in her sophisticated designs. Every piece she fashions is based on artifacts and drawings from ancient times, which perfectly complements her use of hand-cut timeworn glass. Angie is influenced by her time spent traveling through Israel, Greece and Italy and studying the cultures of Mesopotamia and medieval Florence. Her line of Angie Olami jewelry utilizes findings from the Roman Empire that were unearthed in Israel at ancient city sites.

Find vintage-inspired elegance with Anne Koplik!

Swarovski crystals, vintage and reproduction glass abound in Anne Koplik's adornments. Hand-crafted in the USA, these beautiful baubles are designed with a nod to the jewelry of old. Every piece is given an antiqued finish for a softer vintage appearance. If you watch Dancing With the Stars, you've probably seen some of Anne's creations sparkling away on the dancers! Whether it's Arts & Crafts style dragonflies you love or hand-enameled filigree you crave, Anne Koplik has it all.

Don't forget that the artwork & books for our 20th Annual Children's Book Illustration Art Show & Book Signing are available from now until November 26th! Come in for a first look at the artwork from Elisa Kleven, Raul Colon, Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher, Mary Grandpre and Robin Preiss Glasser and pick out a few books while you're here! Can't decide? We can help with book recommendations. Follow this link for more information.

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Save the Date for the Children's Book Illustration Event of the Century!

What do princesses made of paper, wizards with wands, Mudville, a long-haired maiden locked in a tower and fancy little girls have in common?

Chemers Gallery & our

20th Annual Children's Book Illustration Art Show &
Book Signing
Saturday, December 3, 2011, 1 - 5pm

show continues through Dec. 17th
Benefiting Chapman University College of Educational Studies K-12 Literacy Programs

Featuring a "Rock Star" selection of past show favorites:

Robin Preiss Glasser
illustrator of the Fancy Nancy series
2006

Mary GrandPre
illustrator of the Harry Potter books
2000

Raul Colon
together with local author & bookstore owner Rueben Martinez
2003, 2007

Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher
ever popular husband & wife illustration team
2003, 2007

Elisa Kleven
author/illustrator of The Paper Princess books
1993, 2001, 2008

Oh em gee, you guys, this one's gonna be HUGE!

Pre-sales of more than 40 books and over 200 original illustrations will begin Oct. 1st and will last until each illustrator has pre-sold 200 books or Nov. 26th, whichever comes first.

1st Time Ever - original illustrations from the Fancy Nancy books are available exclusively at Chemers Gallery!

Stay for the whole day to hear your favorities talk about their books and demonstrate their talents! Plus, there will be face painting, balloon art and more for the kids!

Chemers Gallery is now the only place in California where you can view and purchase original children's book illustrations, perhaps even the only place on the west coast.

Click HERE for the 2011 Book List.

***Only books purchased at Chemers Gallery may be signed.***

Stay tuned for periodic updates of event details!

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