“From Brown Bag to Picture Book”

My favorite aspect of being a children’s book writer/illustrator is sharing my work with my readers!

Using storyboards, collage materials, and a PowerPoint, I demonstrate how I create my books – starting with simple brown paper bags!  In an inspiring presentation, I discuss my process from initial idea to published book. 

I am happy to work with teachers and administrators to design a program suited to your needs and budget.  Please contact me through my website or email jjmerz@yahoo.com.

Selected List of Author Presentations, Panel Discussions, Art Instruction and Teaching:

NYU Casa-Italiana on NYU campus; Glen Rock Library, Glen Rock, NJ; Neuberger Museum at SUNY Purchase, NY; Kingsborough College, Brooklyn, NY; Art League of LI, Dix Hills, NY; Ridgewood Public Library, Ridgewood, NJ; Barnes & Noble, Paramus, NJ; Centenary College, Hackettstown, NJ; Celebrating Ed Young, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY; SCBWI Illustrators’ Conference, New York, NY; Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ; BooksNJ, Paramus, NJ; Adult Instructor, Ramsey, NJ; George Miller Elementary School, Nanuet, NY

“Jennifer made a PowerPoint presentation to an eager group of five to eight-year-olds at my library. They learned where inspiration comes from and how to progress from the idea to finished art….The children remained rapt throughout. Jenn really connected with the children and her thoroughness and commitment to making it a fun and exciting experience was reflected in their art.” Director of Youth Services, River Edge Library, NJ
“Your participation helped make our Book Week a great success! Thanks again!” The Little Red School House, New York, NY
“The students and teachers enjoyed your presentation, complete with slide show, dummy books, and props. It was great to have a “real” author visit our school and share her book and creative process!” Principal, Hillside School, Allendale, NJ

“Thank you once more for a truly memorable program,” Ridgewood, NJ Public Library

“It was fascinating to discover how your book evolved!”
Archer Nursery School, Allendale, NJ

I’m also a former Art Instructor for Pinot’s Palette, bringing creative fun to groups of painters of all ages.

Using Pinot’s method, I instruct students in making a painting, providing them with entertainment, creative exploration, and the joy of a finished canvas all within two hours.

Pictures above are from my Pinot’s classes, Tuckahoe, NY.