School Visits
Small Group Session (50 people maximum. Ages 5 to 10 are optimal for my work) — I have a literacy-based, group-interactive activity. It's always a lot of fun! As a group we brainstorm illustrations ideas for a simple six page story, Hank and Sam, filling in with pictures what the words leave out. I request a standing easel be available. Sessions run 45 or 60 minutes.
Large Group Presentation — I explain what I do, showing sketches and original artwork, with a discussion of materials, methods of the creative process and how books are made, and take questions. If an easel is available, I like to draw. For large groups a digital projector already connected to a computer is greatly appreciated. Sessions run 30 to 60 minutes.
A maximum of five sessions per day is best. I will gladly take time to sign books. My per-day honorarium is always based upon what a school can pay. Suggested amount is $1200 per day plus travel expense reimbursement. If your school or organization is within a two-hour drive of Amherst, Massachusetts, I need not stay overnight. Please contact me for details and schedule availability.
Pro Bono Visits
There are many wonderful schools with no funds available for school visits. Schools without funds for enrichment should please contact me to get on my list for pro bono visits. I do as many as my schedule allows and taking into account travel considerations.
My New Honorarium Policy is any school that pays a full fee for my visit can designate another school of lesser means in their area for me to offer a visit to at no charge. If no school is designated, I will chose one myself to offer a pro bono visit to. (Thanks goes to Renata Bowers for this idea.)
photos courtesy of the Saratoga Independent School
Getting Signed Copies & Purchasing Original Art
I am pleased and flattered to sign any of the books I have illustrated. Send your copy (copies) with sufficient return postage on a self-addressed, padded envelope to me at the address below. If you wish me to personalize it, just enclose a note telling to whom to inscribe it.
Original watercolor art is generally available for purchase after publication, framed or unframed. Please feel free to use the email form above to write and inquire.
About me
There is a short but comprehensive biographical interview of me posted here on Patricia Newman's site, author of Jingle the Brass. My thanks to you, Patricia.
If you wish to write to me on paper, here is my postal address:
Michael Chesworth
10 Morrow Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
USA
mc(at)crashbangboom(dotcom)
© 2011 M.Chesworth
