Richard Cowdrey was invited to our primary school for our annual Reading Week event. His illustrations in Bad Dog, Marley! had caught my eye, especially the way he painted Marley’s nose! He was well prepared for his presentation. He shared a PowerPoint slideshow that made the kids laugh out loud.

Some of his artwork inspired our students to “think outside the box” and his commissioned pieces were amazing! He explained how and why he became an illustrator in a way that was enlightening and motivating, like and invitation for each of our students to take a try at it.

The best part of his presentation was when he sat down and actually drew a Marley face for them as they watched. We have the picture hanging in our library! To top it off, he spent 2 hours signing copies of Bad Dog, Marley! for every student in our building.

Meeting Richard and having him share his talents with our students was a very rewarding and memorable event.

Lois L. Hunt
Reading Specialist
Frank Knight School

My presentations vary according to the age or grade level of the audience, but the one constant is the Power Point Presentation.   Through it, I discuss my schooling experience from grade school through college, my development as an artist, and the great impact teachers have had in my life. I encourage kids to discover the “gift” that each has been given, and to work hard to develop their gift into a lifelong love and passion. I stress the importance of reading, learning, and overcoming obstacles in life.

The Presentation provides a visual history of my artwork, from a 1st grade portrait of Snoopy, to the # 1 New York Times bestselling  children’s picture book “Bad Dog, Marley!” Also included is artwork from college and the span of my professional career.

I talk about the process of illustrating, explaining how and where I work. Through a series of images, the audience can see an illustration evolve from the concept stage to a finished piece of artwork.

The Power Point Presentation inevitably leads to great Q&A times. Depending on time and scheduling, I follow up the Q&A time with “draw-along,” reading, book signing, or a time for me spend with  smaller groups of students chosen for their aptitude and/or interest in art.

I ask that the students (and teachers!) attending my presentation bring paper and pencils or crayons with them, and we have a “draw along”. I take them step by step through creating a portrait of my favorite dog, Marley. This has been a huge hit with the kids, (and adults!). Everyone leaves with a beautiful piece of artwork and a big smile. Typically the kids are so proud of their drawing, and are eager to get it home to show it off and have it displayed on the fridge.

As time permits, I am available to sign and personalize books. A list of books I have illustrated can be provided upon request.