Family Programs Intern Meghan Nelson chatted with Arty Pants guest storyteller Nancy Carlson about her inspiration, childhood, and, of course, books.
Those who braved the bitter cold and snow to partake in Arty Pants on Tuesday, January 11 were justly rewarded. Special guest Nancy Carlson, local author and illustrator of over 60 adored children’s books, provided a special story time installment, where she read a selection from her work and gave a charming drawing demonstration, all the while eliciting delighted giggles from her rapt audience. Her presentation roller-coastered us through an all-star list of life lessons, encouraged more self-compliments, taught us about bravery and sharing, and introduced us to disco-dancing guinea pigs. Not a smile-less face in the house.
For those of you in anguish over missing this fabulous opportunity, fear not. Nancy will be returning for a second Arty Pants story time, on Tuesday January 25 at 11:30am.
Although February is “I Love to Read” month, and this is undoubtedly Nancy’s crazy-busiest time of year, she graciously found time to answer a few questions:
1. How do you converse with your inner child?
No the question should be how do I converse my inner adult! The child in me is out everyday!
2. Which of your characters resembles you most?
Harriet with a bit of Loud Mouth George added in.
3. Describe a time when Young Nancy conquered a fear or obstacle.
Most likely my speech impediment. It really didn’t bother me, but it was sure nice when people could finally understand me.
4. What was your most-read bedtime story as a kid?
Comic books of all kinds and the Betsy Tacy books.
5. What is a treasure you have from your past?
My favorite Golden Book called THE HAPPY DUMP TRUCK DRIVER.
6. Tree house or houseboat?
Houseboat, I love water!
7. Describe one of your defining moments, magnificent or minute.
I think going through Outward Bound as a 16 year old. There was a moment when I realized I could try anything and if I failed it was OK!
8. What is one art supply/medium that confounds you, and one you can’t live without?
I can’t live with out ink pens and pencils of all kinds. I really have never figured out pastels. I love them done well… but I can’t figure them out and they make me shiver when I touch them.
9. What other forms of creative expression do you enjoy, beyond writing and illustrating?
I love music of all kinds!
10. Two adverbs and a color that describe yourself are:
The color aqua. Happily and friendly.
11. What is one goal you are currently working toward?
I would like to write novel for kids some day. I would also love to become the best drawer in the entire world. Then have my own show at the Walker Art Center!
12. How does your family spend a rainy day?
Eating sweets!
13. During which season are you most creative?
Winter and fall I am too distracted in the summer! (I play too much golf to get anything done.)
14. What are you currently reading?
THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN. By Garth Stein
15. Any new books on the near horizon?
Lots of ideas nothing worked out. My doodles need to find a book concept. Not sure what it is yet!
I am currently doing an ABC book about the Twin Cities.
16. Do you have any wisdom pearls for young artists?
Turn stuff off and draw everyday. If you can draw you can do anything in art!
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