A Selection of Jessica's Books
Clive is a Teacher:
Jessica Spanyol
Author/illustrator
MAKE YOUR OWN PICTURE BOOK CHARACTER.
I remember feeling that I was Stupid when I was in primary school. My mum encouraged me to make up picture book characters to help my self esteem.
I hope that my workshops show children, that even if they are struggling with writing or learning to read, this does not have to be a barrier to their creativity.
First I introduce the idea of what an author/ illustrator is by showing a portfolio and reading some books. Then move onto a hands on workshop where children create their own picture book character, using printed shapes and collage as a starting point to let their imaginations run wild.
It is amazing to see all the fantastic picture book characters created and these can be used as a great starting point from which to build stories.
Sessions end with a celebration of the children's work.
Type of Artist:
Author, IllustratorDetails
Preferred age range:I have most often been booked for Early years and
Key stage 1.
But have experience with all primary years and adults too! ( previously having worked as a university Lecturer)
Maximum number in any one session:
Class size up to 30 . School assemblies larger - and include celebration of the Pupils Work.
No of sessions per day:
4
Session Length:
45 mins - 1 hour workshop.
Areas prepared to travel to:
I am based in London - happy to travel out of London if expenses met.
Transport:
public transport
Fees:
Hold PLI (public liability insurance):
I have been CRB checked - PLI
Website:
Titles include:
Clive and his Babies
Clive and his Hats
Clive and his Bags
Clive and his Art
Clive is a Nurse
Clive is Waiter
Clive is a Teacher
Clive is a Librarian
Carlo likes Reading
Carlo and the really nice Librarian
Go Bugs Go
Little Neighbours of Sunnyside Street
My Dad is Beautiful
Testimonials:
Jessica Spanyol has run workshops in several of the schools I have worked in. She has a most engaging manner with very young children. Her workshops are inspirational, making children view themselves as authors and illustrators. The work she plans is creative and accessible for children of all abilities. It often involves using drawing and collage to create characters and stories. Children often talk about how much they have enjoyed the sessions afterwards. I cannot recommend this author highly enough, especially for those looking to promote literacy in the early years.
Flo Katesmark- Early years teacher
"Jess Spanyol ran two workshops at our busy Children's Library, where children aged from five to ten had a fantastic time making collages, and her talk really gave them an insight into how an illustrator develops a character visually, and how they could let their imaginations run away with them in developing their own characters."
Claudia Jessop Librarian.
'We've worked with Jessica for several years now and she never fails to deliver stimulating and fun illustration based story workshops which please both children and parents alike. She has a gentle, patient style which small children respond well to and they find her pictures accessible and absorbing.'
Penny Wrout - Landsky Arts and organiser of Town hall Tales - Shoreditch Literature Festival
“The content of Jess’s workshops make it clear just how well she understands and values the individuality and creativity of children. To be a successful workshop leader, you need to be inspiring, approachable and flexible. Jess embodies all of these qualities and more.”
Amy Griffiths- Education Liaison - Childs play publishers.
Published work:
Photos:
