LeUyen Came Along: The Art of LeUyen Pham

The work of author and illustrator LeUyen Pham is featured in this exhibit, organized by the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature (NCCIL) in Abilene, Texas.

Pham is most notably recognized for her popular Princess in Black children’s book series, the Vampirina Ballerina series, which went on to be an animated Disney series, Bear Came Along, her Caldecott Honor, and the New York Times best-selling Itty-Bitty Kitty-Corn.

When NCCIL curator Sewon Kang first sat down with Pham’s art to organize the exhibition, she kept coming back to one thing – the characters! Each and every piece in the exhibition is filled with characters who push the boundaries of reality into a world of creativity and unbridled imagination.  As children and adults alike walk through the gallery, they will meet all kinds of unique new friends. Some are colorful reflections of ourselves, while others are clever creations that compliment the author’s vision.

ABOUT LEUYEN PHAM
Pham was born in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) but left with her family in the final days of the Vietnam War. After settling in southern California, she found her love for illustration while studying political science at the University of California, Los Angeles. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1996 from the Art Center College of Design and went on to work at DreamWorks Animation after graduating.

Gallery Hours: Tues-Sat from noon to 5PM
Irving Arts Center’s galleries are open for viewing free of charge during regular gallery hours Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 PM.