Page 55 - Mosaic Digest Magazine

Pam Rice Inspires Young Minds WithVibrant Stories andArt
resonates deeply with children. “I told this story in a way kids would un- derstand, using experiences they may have at the age of the character,” she explained. Rooted in truth, the story makes history accessible and enga- ging for young readers, offering them an inspiring glimpse into a significant chapter in American history.
Growing up in a home supported by her father’s career in design, Rice was drawn naturally to the arts. Although her father passed away when she was just four, her mother played a pivotal role in nurturing her talent. “My mo- ther encouraged me by teaching me to use materials, buying me supplies, and enrolling me in art classes,”
Rice recalled. This support not only solidified her love for art but also propelled her toward a lifelong career that fused her passion for design with her commitment to storytelling.
For Rice, her art is ever-evol-
ving. “Artists develop their style
by studying others, trying different mediums, and pushing boundaries,” she shared. Her creative process starts with seeing characters, textures, and backgrounds come to life, allowing the visuals and text to grow together. Tailoring her illustrations to captivate her audience, she ensures that her work resonates deeply with children, who often absorb images before text, using her visuals as a springboard
for understanding the stories they accompany.
EDITOR’S DESK
am Rice, a luminary in
Pam Rice blends art and storytelling to engage children with diverse narratives and historical figures. Her passion, rooted in Pcreativity and history, inspires the next generation of authors, artists, and readers.
the field of children’s Speaks, Rice reflected on her collabo- literature and illustration, ration with renowned artists such as
Shane Svorec’s writing captures genuine emotions and inspires readers to live authentically and appreciate the beauty around them.
has masterfully crafted a Synthia St. James, Evita Tezeno, and space where compelling
storytelling meets vibrant visuals. Clyde D. Lewis. “I wanted to work
A Visionary Her journey, marked by a deep-rooted with artists I was familiar with,” Rice love for art and education, origi- remarked. She admired St. James’
in Children’s Literature
nates from a childhood imbued with creativity and has blossomed into
a remarkable career that has made her a beloved figure in the world of children’s books. Notably, Rice’s works celebrate diverse narratives and highlight African-American adventurers, offering young readers a captivating blend of history, culture, and imagination.
vibrant, graphic style—the same style that adorned the first Kwanzaa stamp for the U.S. Postal Service and fit the book’s vision perfectly. Similarly, Rice sought elements from Tezeno’s striking collages and Lewis’ pencil artistry. By blending these unique styles, the book introduces children to a young girl discovering her passion for art, while also learning valuable history lessons that were described by each artist.
With a background in advertising, graphic design, and visual com- munications, Rice transformed her professional expertise into tools for storytelling. “My advertising and design background gave me the skills to create self-published, professio- nal-looking books,” she shared. That foundation has been instrumental in her successful transition to authoring and illustrating children’s literature, beginning with her first book written in second grade, The Billy Goat in The Rose Garden. Even then, her visual talent showed more promise than her early writing, laying the foundation for her unmistakable illustrative style.
Rice’s book When The Brown Bird Flies is a heartfelt narrative based on the early experiences of her close friend, Tuskegee Airman pilot Jack Lyle. Rice shared that blending historical elements with storytelling helped her create a narrative that
In an exclusive interview originally featured in Reader’s House Magazine, Rice shared her creative philosophy, artistic journey, and her unwavering commitment to inspiring the next generation of artists and storytellers. Her distinct ability to weave historical events into engaging narratives has garnered her widespread admiration and solidified her place in the hearts of readers and critics alike. Her books, like The Painting Speaks and When The Brown Bird Flies, stand
As an educator and seasoned crea- tor, Rice provides thoughtful advice to budding authors and illustrators. She encourages aspiring artists
as vivid testaments to her talent and dedication.
to draw inspiration from personal experiences and childhood memories while crafting clear, meaningful, and age-appropriate stories. She also emp- hasizes the importance of budgeting for a skilled illustrator. “Do not be discouraged by not immediately being accepted by a publisher,” Rice advises. “Self-publishing offers the satisfaction and motivation of seeing your story in print.”
Delving into her book The Painting
Pam Rice’s work continues to ins- pire and educate, providing children with windows into diverse worlds and timeless stories. With each book, she nurtures the minds of future generations, ensuring her artistic and educational contributions leave an indelible mark.
“I wanted to work with artists I was familiar with.” Pam Rice MOSAIC DIGEST II 54
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