Children's book exhibit opens Friday at museum

MOSES LAKE — Award-winning paintings and drawings from children’s books will be on display through Oct. 31 at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center. The opening exhibit for “Young at Art” will be at 5 p.m. Friday at the museum, 401 S. Balsam St.

Admission is free.

The exhibit features paintings and drawings awarded the Caldecott medal for illustration in children’s books. The award has been presented since 1938, and the show features selections of book illustrations dating back almost 80 years.

Remember “Jumanji?” Before it was a movie it was a 1981 book. It follows the story of a brother and sister who find a game in the park – looks like a really fun game, but appearances can be deceiving. (How to explain to Mom and Dad that’s a real lion shut up in the bedroom?) The book was written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg, who also wrote “The Polar Express,” about a magical train and its journey. Illustrations from both books are in the show.

The show includes the classic Indian folk tale, “Once a Mouse,” the 1961 winner written and illustrated by Marcia Brown. It’s the story of what happens when a mouse meets a mysterious – and magical – hermit. There are illustrations from “The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses,” (1979) a Native American tale written and illustrated by British author Paul Goble.

The opening reception will feature the “Adult Swim,” a craft project designed for adults as well as kids. The idea grew out of the practice at swimming pools of setting aside time for adults only. Friday’s project is “reverse watercolor” stencils.

The reception also includes a no host bar, sponsored by Columbia Basin Allied Arts, and refreshments.