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At the Writers Conference
At the Writers Conference Nov 1-4, there's a whole lot going on for authors and aspiring authors (some of the events are geared toward teens and kids, too!) Here are a couple of unique opportunities:
Submit your work for live editing!
Lisa Bankoff, of Bankoff Collaborative, LLC; Jessica Conolly, local writer and former editor of KC Voices; and jd tulloch, 39 West Press editor, will provide public feedback on anonymously submitted first pages at First Page Reads. Find out whether each would continue reading and why on Friday, November 2 from 3:00 - 3:50 and Saturday from 4:00 - 4:50.
Diana Goetsch, poet and teacher, will examine the work of a few local poets on Saturday, from 2:00 - 2:50 pm in Craft and Vision: a Live Editing Session.
Submit your work for live critique and editing at readlocal.submittable.com.
Get an author photo taken!
And ... need a professional photograph for a blog, website, or book jacket? Don’t pay big bucks. Jacob Meyer, of New Friends Photography, will be at our Writers Conference on Friday, November 2 from 10:00 - 1:00 and Saturday, November 3rd from 1:00 - 3:00 taking author photos free of charge. Reserve your spot here: http://signup.com/go/AqaVRms.
At the Writers Conference Nov 1-4, there's a whole lot going on for authors and aspiring authors (some of the events are geared toward teens and kids, too!) Here are a couple of unique opportunities:
Submit your work for live editing!
Lisa Bankoff, of Bankoff Collaborative, LLC; Jessica Conolly, local writer and former editor of KC Voices; and jd tulloch, 39 West Press editor, will provide public feedback on anonymously submitted first pages at First Page Reads. Find out whether each would continue reading and why on Friday, November 2 from 3:00 - 3:50 and Saturday from 4:00 - 4:50.
Diana Goetsch, poet and teacher, will... Continue »
The Remember Balloons: Meet Author Jessie Oliveros
Jessie Oliveros returns to Kansas for the book launch of her debut children's book The Remember Balloons, illustrated by Dana Wolfekotte. "What’s Happening to Grandpa" meets "Up" in this tender, sensitive picture book that gently explains the memory loss associated with aging and diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Join us for a reading and light refreshments. Books will be available for purchase, courtesy of The Friends of Johnson County Library.
"James and Grandpa's shared heritage and stories of their loving family shine. What is clear is that their memories matter—to them and ultimately to readers. A moving and meaningful way to talk about a situation many families will face."
— Kirkus, starred review
Jessie Oliveros returns to Kansas for the book launch of her debut children's book The Remember Balloons, illustrated by Dana Wolfekotte. "What’s Happening to Grandpa" meets "Up" in this tender, sensitive picture book that gently explains the memory loss associated with aging and diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Join us for a reading and light refreshments. Books will be available for purchase, courtesy of The Friends of Johnson County Library.
"James and Grandpa's shared heritage and stories of their loving family shine. What is clear is that their memories matter—to them and ultimately to readers. A moving and meaningful way to talk about a situation many families will face."
— Kirkus, starred review
Art Views: Creativity and Culture in Kansas City
Artists of color, immigrant or refugee artists, LGBTQ artists, artists working through mental health struggles all bring unique perspectives to the discussion of culture and creativity. No Divide KC presents a new documentary featuring local artists who represent multiple facets of our metro community. This feature-length film explores the motivations behind and the rewards gleaned from creating artistic work through the varied lenses of these artists.
The featured participants use their creative output for different reasons. Some are professionals in their field, some are politically motivated and others discover and preserve cultural connections via art. Three exhibitions, at different library branches, feature artwork from the participants while the video segments are on display. Each branch will host a reception with live performances and a screening of the full film.
Artists of color, immigrant or refugee artists, LGBTQ artists, artists working through mental health struggles all bring unique perspectives to the discussion of culture and creativity. No Divide KC presents a new documentary featuring local artists who represent multiple facets of our metro community. This feature-length film explores the motivations behind and the rewards gleaned from creating artistic work through the varied lenses of these artists.
The featured participants use their creative output for different reasons. Some are professionals in their field, some are politically motivated and others discover and preserve cultural connections via art. Three exhibitions, at different library branches, feature artwork from... Continue »
Alexandra Ames Alexandra Ames
Alexandra Ames Alexandra Ames
Alexandra Ames Alexandra Ames
Now Showing at Leawood: Alexandra AmesAlexandra Ames
Alexandra Ames describes herself as an artistic “jack of all trades.” Her art draws upon elements of art nouveau, science fiction/fantasy art, music and the natural world. Much of her work offers vibrant depictions of various animals in their natural states. While she is a gifted painter, sculptor, graphic designer, animator, and a creator of video game art and assets, her real passion is for writing and illustrating.
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Introduce yourself and describe your work and the media/genre you work in.
My name is Alexandra Ames. I have been creating, writing and drawing for my entire life. I am a writer, illustrator, sculptor, animator and graphic designer. I write fantasy children's stories and Science Fiction and Fantasy novels. The majority of my paintings and illustrations are acrylic on canvas or India ink and gouache on paper. I create sculptures out of Super Sculpey and other mediums. I am always trying to learn new or more efficient ways to create things.
Talk about the work that will be on view. What would you like people to know about it?
The work that is on view is all acrylic on canvas. They are all stylized animal or nature paintings. This collection is a compilation of a lot of experimentation, frustration, deep thoughts, intuition and fun.
What’s the most challenging thing about your creative process?
The most challenging thing about my creative process is knowing when I'm finished and not pushing things so far that I ruin it.
Who are the other artists you look to for inspiration? And what about their work do you like?
I find inspiration everywhere with other artists in all mediums and genres, but the artist that I have been inspired by my whole life are Alphonse Mucha and Frank Frazetta.
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Alexandra's book and music recommendations:
Books:
Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz
The Firebird by Mercedes Lackey
Music:
Alexandra Ames describes herself as an artistic “jack of all trades.” Her art draws upon elements of art nouveau, science fiction/fantasy art, music and the natural world. Much of her work offers vibrant depictions of various animals in their natural states. While she is a gifted painter, sculptor, graphic designer, animator, and a creator of video game art and assets, her real passion is for writing and illustrating.
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Introduce yourself and describe your work and the media/genre you work in.
My name is Alexandra Ames. I have been creating, writing and drawing for my entire life. I am a writer, illustrator, sculptor, animator and graphic designer. I write fantasy children's stories and Science... Continue »
Have a look at this Homeschool Meetup!Homeschool Meetup
Homeschool kids and teens will love this educational session that features a different theme each month. You'll hear expert presentations and demonstrations and learn about related activities. Librarians will provide subject resources for you to further explore each topic. Ages 8-18 only please. Parents are invited to explore the rest of the Library during this independent learning experience. Register online or call (913) 826-4600.
September: Coding, presented by Johnson County Library staff (This session is limited to 10 participants, so register early!)
October: Bullet Journaling, presented by a Johnson County Library Teen Volunteer and fellow homeschooler
November: Art Workshop, presented by Kansas City Kansas Community College Art Gallery staff
Homeschool kids and teens will love this educational session that features a different theme each month. You'll hear expert presentations and demonstrations and learn about related activities. Librarians will provide subject resources for you to further explore each topic. Ages 8-18 only please. Parents are invited to explore the rest of the Library during this independent learning experience. Register online or call (913) 826-4600.
September: Coding, presented by Johnson County Library staff (This session is limited to 10 participants, so register early!)
October: Bullet Journaling, presented by a Johnson County Library Teen Volunteer and fellow homeschooler
November: Art Workshop, presented by Kansas City Kansas... Continue »
Letting Loose @ the Library!
It was a huge success! The JCL Foundation's annual Library Lets Loose fundraising event was held September 29. Nearly 500 Library lovers attended this festive fundraiser that featured unique and creative experiences, scrumptious food and drink pairings – and local music, artists, performers and creators. And, more than $120,000 was raised!
Proceeds from the event benefit the JCL Foundation which helps support Library programs and the collection. The Foundation provides funding for programs that go above and beyond what you would expect from a Library! Early childhood literacy, Summer Reading, Homework Help, teen writing programs and civic engagement are just a few of the many programs that make a difference in our community.
If you were unable to attend the evening’s festivities, the silent auction is still live online! You can bid on several stunning original pieces of art and jewelry, many of which are currently on display at the Central Resource Library. Simply go online to view these works and place your bid, or simply enter the “Buy it now” price. A percentage of each sale will benefit the Foundation thanks to our partners with GUILDit.
Also, there’s still time to provide your support and receive a one-of-a-kind opportunity to meet two of Kansas City’s literary treasures — Candice Millard and Steve Kraske — and sit in on their lively conversation covering topics sure to entertain and inform. Purchase your seat(s) for just $100 per person.
Thank you for your continued support, and be sure to save the date for next year’s event —Saturday, September 28, 2019!
It was a huge success! The JCL Foundation's annual Library Lets Loose fundraising event was held September 29. Nearly 500 Library lovers attended this festive fundraiser that featured unique and creative experiences, scrumptious food and drink pairings – and local music, artists, performers and creators. And, more than $120,000 was raised!
Proceeds from the event benefit the JCL Foundation which helps support Library programs and the collection. The Foundation provides funding for programs that go above and beyond what you would expect from a Library! Early childhood literacy, Summer Reading, Homework Help, teen writing programs and civic engagement are just a... Continue »
Homework Hero!
Sophia, that's the look of success! Your face tells the story.
You are a homework hero! Your secret weapon: your Library Card. In a single bound, you leap directly into Biography in Context! Why? Because you know that when you want the stories of famous people, it's the place to go!
- Actors
- Famous African Americans
- Athletes and coaches
- Notable women
- Politicians and dignitaries
- Scientists
- Social reformers
- Young adult writers
For a recent homework assignment, you chose to report on Thurgood Marshall. You found videos, radio stories, audio clips, 133 newspaper articles, 160 magazine articles and more!
But you went the extra mile! You visited Homework Help Kids where you found Encyclopedia Britannica School, the Kids Reference eBook Collection, and more magazine and newspaper articles from TOPICsearch.
You're kind of an expert now, Sophia. You wrote a report your teacher called "remarkable!" So take a selfie to capture that look: the look of accomplishment!
Sophia, that's the look of success! Your face tells the story.
You are a homework hero! Your secret weapon: your Library Card. In a single bound, you leap directly into Biography in Context! Why? Because you know that when you want the stories of famous people, it's the place to go!
- Actors
- Famous African Americans
- Athletes and coaches
- Notable women
- Politicians and dignitaries
- Scientists
- Social reformers
- Young adult writers
For a recent homework... Continue »
Tonight! Halloween Mask Making with Brad ShawHalloween Mask Making with Brad Shaw
This workshop is a great way to get ready for Halloween. Teaching artist Brad Shaw helps kids each create their own unique mask using papier-mache and paints. Your kids will work with Brad to create characters with their masks and put them together in a mini-play. There are two sessions, one at 1 pm and one at 2 pm. Arrive 15 minutes early to get a free ticket. Best for ages K-2.
Get some help on Oct. 18 with your Halloween Costume, too »
This workshop is a great way to get ready for Halloween. Teaching artist Brad Shaw helps kids each create their own unique mask using papier-mache and paints. Your kids will work with Brad to create characters with their masks and put them together in a mini-play. There are two sessions, one at 1 pm and one at 2 pm. Arrive 15 minutes early to get a free ticket. Best for ages K-2.
Get some help on Oct. 18 with your Halloween Costume, too »
Author Wilma Yeo and her legacy
You may have seen a statue we have at Corinth of a young girl reading to a young boy. The girl in the statue is author Wilma Yeo. Over the past weekend we had a special visit - Wilma's great-granddaughters came for a visit, and we snapped this photo of them by the statue of Wilma!
You may have seen a statue we have at Corinth of a young girl reading to a young boy. The girl in the statue is author Wilma Yeo. Over the past weekend we had a special visit - Wilma's great-granddaughters came for a visit, and we snapped this photo of them by the statue of Wilma!
Glyneisha Johnson Glyneisha Johnson
Glyneisha Johnson Glyneisha Johnson
Glyneisha Johnson Glyneisha Johnson
Now Showing at Shawnee: Glyneisha JohnsonGlyneisha Johnson
Glyneisha Johnson is a recent graduate of the Kansas City Art Institute’s Painting department. She is also a recipient of Charlotte Street Foundation’s 2017-2018 studio residency program in Kansas City, Missouri. She has exhibited in various solo and group exhibitions in Kansas City, including Undergrads Underground at Leedy-Voulkos Art Center and The Writer's Place. Through collage, painting, and drawing, Glyneisha Johnson’s work echoes nodes of black culture and her experience of being raised in the South. The work also acknowledges the importance of Black domestic spaces within a society that often overlooks these spaces and the people who inhabit them. She uses the language of collage as a metaphor to describe the dislocated, collaged nature of black history due to colonialism.
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Talk about the work that will be on view. What would you like people to know about it?
The work on view is a photoshoot of a black couple that follows the chronology of a breakup in relation to a personal breakup of mine. The positions of the figures, the curation of the home and the couple’s expression outline one emotion before, during, or following a separation.
What’s the most challenging thing about your creative process?
The most challenging thing about my creative process is finishing work to meet the demand of exhibiting or selling. My artistic practice has really turned into meticulous mark making. The process for me is very ritualistic and sometimes removing myself from that process can be hard.
Who are the other artists you look to for inspiration? And what about their works do you like?
I have always admired artists Romare Bearden and Kerry James Marshall. In a lot of ways, I actually look toward them as father figures. Bearden’s use of colorful collage that is set during the Harlem Renaissance really speaks to the use of collage as a metaphor to describe black culture. My collages actually started by recreating and looking really closely at Bearden’s work through different materials. Marshalls black and white interiors with figures really helped me think about representation through the abstract in my work.
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5-10 books, music and/or movies that have inspired you:
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Their Eyes were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Black Sexual Politics by Patricia Hill Collins
Everything is Love by the Carters
Daughters of the Dust by Julie Dash
Glyneisha Johnson is a recent graduate of the Kansas City Art Institute’s Painting department. She is also a recipient of Charlotte Street Foundation’s 2017-2018 studio residency program in Kansas City, Missouri. She has exhibited in various solo and group exhibitions in Kansas City, including Undergrads Underground at Leedy-Voulkos Art Center and The Writer's Place. Through collage, painting, and drawing, Glyneisha Johnson’s work echoes nodes of black culture and her experience of being raised in the South. The work also acknowledges the importance of Black domestic spaces within a society that often overlooks these spaces and the people who inhabit them. She uses the language of collage as a metaphor to describe the dislocated,... Continue »