Recommendations of my drawing sessions with kids
"I had the great pleasure of watching Rich Davis inspire children in 6 of our libraries this summer. He was very flexible as he adapted to a variety of library settings, space limitations, and different sizes of audiences. The card game he has designed makes each session unique. He also has the ability to gently manage difficult situations before they get out of hand. He displayed patience with various ages of children as he answered their questions and encouraged them in their work. His sessions were completely filled with activities the children enjoyed. They never had a chance to get bored! He is also skilled at bringing reluctant adults into the creative process in his sessions, as parents and caregivers are encouraged to draw along with their children. Rich Davis made our summer reading program very special for people of all ages. "
S. Rogers
Washington County Library System
"Mr. Davis’ enthusiasm for illustration and creativity are utterly apparent in his wonderful sessions for kids. No matter what the age of the participants, he is able to share his love for drawing and spur creativity for all kids involved. His art card game is perfectly suited for enticing kids to think and draw creatively. We look forward to having him back to our library!"
Erin Mink
Children’s Assistant Librarian
Springdale AR
"Rich Davis' presentation was “spot on” for the elementary kids that attended. His quiet style lends itself to the kids really having to pay attention and he successfully kept them engrossed. And, giving kids the exposure to drawing and providing them with the tools to actually draw their own picture was very powerful. Anytime we can encourage kids and build their confidence in their abilities, we have done our job. And, he did that in his presentation."
L. Greenwood
Manager, Youth Services
Fayetteville Public Library
"Rich Davis, a very talented illustrator, is a joy to watch as he draws with the children. He explains how and why, shows by example, then draws with the children. At the same time, the children are made to feel comfortable with their own individual expression of line and placement. There’s much laughter and “show-and-tell”. Each child left the program proudly holding his/her drawing with visions of many more original works with his/her new-found skill. It was a brilliant day!" Deborah Edmonds, Children's Librarian Baxter County Library Mountain Home, Ar Rich Davis is a talented illustrator and a gifted teacher. His simple step-by-step approach was easy to follow and had many of the adults that watched wishing we had pencils and paper so we could draw along with he and the children! His encouragement to the children to tap into their own creativity was inspirational, and I have no doubt that many of the children in our store went home and continued drawing. We hope to have Rich Davis back in our store soon to inspire more young artists." Kelly Hatchett Community Relations Manager Barnes & Noble Bookstore Fayetteville, AR "Our third grade class really enjoyed visiting with illustrator, Rich Davis, in our school library today. His engaging presentation had each student's attention. Briefly, he discussed how an artist looks at drawing things. Then we broke out the paper and pencils. Mr. Davis guided us on a journey of creativity. We started with step by step drawings. Finally, he encouraged students to create on their own. The results were incredible. The kids were energized by their success. Wish we would have scheduled more time for his presentation." Marjorie Robinson School Librarian, Siloam Springs, Arkansas "What an experience. Mr. Davis captivated the kids. First, by showing them how to draw a drawing they had seen many times before...a Dr. Suess drawing. He showed them specifically how to draw cartoons. The hands on session was a hit. He took details that you wouldn't expect in order to make faces. Then he showed the kids how to do it step by step. The kids were so proud of their faces. They made sure that they showed Mr. Davis, and also had him sign their artwork. The kids were totally interested the entire time." Elementary School Librarian Assistant "Rich Davis is a marvelously gifted illustrator who also has the greatest rapport with his audience. Mr. Davis had the children fully participate with his drawing and gave them the confidence to express themselves. He encouraged the children to use their imagination and “what if” scenario. He is very entertaining and informative in a casual and warm way. Mr. Davis’ talent of teaching is very unique and inspiring. The children were very proud of their finished “masterpiece”. One child left their paper behind, the parent called and came back to pick up the artwork. Neither the parent nor the child wanted to lose the visual reminder of the art Mr. Davis had shared. I look forward to having Mr. Davis back to share again." Trish Houston Books on Broadway "Everyone at the Bartlett Library (TN) was pleased with our step-by-step drawing program with Rich Davis. As one of the children's librarians I also had five great nieces, ages 7-10, at the program. They thought it was an outstanding program. They thanked me when I got home for letting them go to the program. We had two one hour programs, and I sat through most of the last one. It was entertaining and informative. Some children were apprehensive at first about if they would be up to the task. But they all enjoyed themselves and were not threated by the steps. They all went home with two good drawings. I hope we will be able to have another program next year." Reba Sanders Children's Librarian Bartlett Library "In June of 2009, Rich Davis presented a workshop for us at the Springdale Public Library called “Learn to Draw with Rich Davis”. It was so well done that we are planning for his return yet this year. He involved every student and parent that attended and gave them step by step instructions....however, each one still felt that their drawing was an original. He was very well organized and knew how to share his expertise in a non-threatening way. If you want a good program for kids of all ages, contact Rich Davis. His books and illustrations are delightful for kids and parents." Judy Lewis Springdale, AR Library retired Kindergarten Teacher and now Children’s Storyteller for 3-5 year olds