The Animal's Day: An Island Alphabet
From accordion playing Ants to industrious Woodpeckers – isn’t it about time for all of the non-human residents of Toronto’s Islands to kick back and have a party? What does it look like when critters carouse? At the launch of her delightful new book, The Animal’s Day: An Island Alphabet (Groundwood Books), acclaimed author, artist and illustrator Barbara Klunder will discuss her longstanding attachment to Toronto’s islands with journalist and educator Lynn Cunningham. Also on the bill is a live set by The Cath Campbell Trio for dancers of all ages.
Twelve minutes south by boat from the shores of Toronto, there is an Island shaped like a shoe. At the toe of the shoe there is a village of about 250 cottages, home to nearly one thousand, including pets. But beyond the houses, on the rest of the Island, live many wild creatures...
Imagine that once a year all the animals living on the Toronto Island decked themselves out like people and held a party -- a day for animals only. The amusing result can be seen in this charming alphabet book, where illustrations show animals up to human antics -- playing instruments, cycling, boating, barbecuing, bathing and napping -- on the beloved Island. The work of renowned artist Barbara W. Klunder, this book celebrates one of Canada's most cherished places.
Barbara W. Klunder is an eclectic artist gifted in many genres and media, from designing hand-knit sweaters (which were launched in New York with the help of Vogue magazine), hand-hooked rugs and fonts, to illustration work for books, posters and logos for clients ranging from theaters to jazz festivals to the Rolling Stones. She is well known for her commitment to human rights and environmental causes, and her work has been exhibited throughout North America. Barbara teaches drawing and painting at the Art Gallery of Ontario, and she is a sought-after lecturer and juror for contemporary art exhibitions. She lives in Toronto, Ontario
Lynn Cunningham is an associate professor in the faculty of journalism at Ryerson University as well as a freelance book and magazine editor. She has held senior editorial positions at such magazines as Canadian Business, Quest and Toronto Life. Notable amongst the many professional distinctions that Cunningham has received is the National Magazine Awards' Lifetime Achievement award.
The Cath Campbell Trio is a family-oriented band of artists who characterize their sound as being a blend of old-school country and swing, sprinkled with rock tunes for pint-sized dancers.
