The National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature kicked off its 25th anniversary, by opening the exhibition of author and illustrator Matthew Cordell. Cordell, the winner of the 2018 Caldecott Medal, has illustrated many works of poetry, children’s books, and other novels. He has also released writings of his own, including “Hello, Neighbor! The Kind and Caring World of Mister Rogers”, an authorized picture book biography of Mister Rogers. His most recent release is “Cornbread & Poppy”.
While at the NCCIL, Cordell signed books and spoke to an excited audience. He detailed becoming a children's book author and illustrator and described his artistic style, "I don’t like things that are conventionally beautiful. I don’t like things that are traditionally beautiful. I like very realistically drawn pictures. I don't like music that’s very sometimes soothing to the ear. I just kind of like things that set me on edge.”
Cordell’s artistic style, specifically in his Caldecott-awarded book “Wolf in the Snow”, combines realistic and cartoon-like techniques in his illustrations. His illustrations are on display at the NCCIL through December 23rd.