Camas Public Library Presents “Between Page & Panel: A Celebration of Local Children's Book Illustrators”
This fall, the Second Story Gallery at the Camas Public Library invites visitors to step behind the pages of their favorite children's books with Between Page & Panel: A Celebration of Local Children's Book Illustrators, on view Sept. 4 – Oct. 17, 2026.
Coordinated by Camas illustrator Lauren Akazawa Mendez, the exhibition brings together original artwork by 15 accomplished children's book illustrators from the Portland / Vancouver metro area. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to experience the original paintings, drawings, and sketches that become beloved picture books and graphic novels, while gaining insight into the creative process behind children's publishing.
Featured artists include Zoey Abbott, Kristen Adam, Kate Berube, Pamela Goodman, Jonathan Hill, Deborah Hocking, Nat Iwata, Margaux Meganck, Lauren Akazawa Mendez, Sheryl Murray, Jay Myers, Marika Paz, Geoffry Smalley, Aron Nels Steinke, and Tracy Subisak.
In addition to the exhibition, the library will host two free public events that give visitors the chance to meet the artists and learn more about the world of children's book illustration. The exhibition opens with a reception Friday, Sept. 4, from 5 p.m.–8 p.m. On Saturday, Sept. 19, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., the Gallery will host Illustrator Day, a family-friendly event featuring artist meet-and-greets, live drawing demonstrations, and hands-on art activities for all ages.
An Artist Panel will take place Friday, October 2, at 5 p.m., offering a conversation with exhibiting illustrators about children's book illustration, creativity, and the journey from sketchbook to published book.
All events are free and open to the public.
The Second Story Gallery, located inside the Camas Public Library, presents rotating exhibitions featuring regional artists and community-focused programming throughout the year. Between Page & Panel: A Celebration of Local Children's Book Illustrators and its accompanying events are made possible through the generous support of the Autzen Foundation.
Exhibition Information
Between Page & Panel: A Celebration of Local Children's Book Illustrators
Dates: Sept. 4 – Oct. 17, 2026
Location: Second Story Gallery, Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave., Camas, WA
Opening Reception
Friday, Sept. 4, from 5–8 p.m.
Illustrator Day
Saturday, Sept. 19, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Meet exhibiting illustrators, watch live demonstrations, and enjoy hands-on art activities for all ages.
Artist Panel
Friday, Oct. 2, at 5 p.m.
A conversation with exhibiting artists about children's book illustration, creativity, and the publishing process.
For more information about the exhibition or upcoming gallery shows, visit http://camaspl.org/ssg or contact the Camas Public Library.
