The Picture Book Gallery for Illustrators
In November 2021, we launched the Picture Book Gallery as a way to generate funds for Canadian Children’s Book Week. The inaugural collection featured works created by the 13 illustrators invited to participate in the project.
Canadian Children’s Book Week connects Canadian creators with children and teens across Canada. By participating in our Picture Book Gallery, you support our annualt tour that allows 28,000 young Canadians to participate in over 400 readings and workshops in a single week.
Illustrators set their own prices, with 60% of the value of their art sold donated to Book Week.
This event is a great opportunity to showcase your work to a wider audience, all while generously contributing to a love of reading in children across Canada.
Selection Process
We consider these factors when choosing illustrators for the gallery:
The artistic excellence of a submitted piece.
The piece’s suitability as wall art. Illustrations that look great on the page aren’t necessarily the best choice for framed artwork.
The overall appeal of the content. We’re looking for pieces that will resonate with a wide variety of potential buyers.
Representation from BIPOC communities, LGBTQ2S+ communities, and people with disabilities in our selection of artists.
The artist’s professional experience.
Representation from geographical regions across the country.
“Most Canadian illustrators undervalue their work even though they are known internationally. I prefer this way of supporting the CCBC to the old auction model because artists are setting the price for their pieces. The artists receive 40% of the art sales, and the remainder goes to the CCBC. The CCBC manages the website and deals with sales, and the artists are reimbursed for shipping expenses separate from the sale price. I initially showed five pieces and sold four. Everybody wins!”—Barbara Reid
