Growing up, I read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” over and over again. I loved the vivid color and textures, and the way Eric Carle’s enthusiasm bled into his work. So, when a poem about Eric Carle appeared this year as an option I was deeply inspired. As an illustrator, nature is a core influence and I aspire to have the energy and the vibrancy Eric Carle created nature with. Getting to return to the world of Eric Carle and interpret it the best I could with my perspective was a deep joy; a joy I hope viewers receive seeing the poster.

I am a freelance illustrator originally from Syracuse. This poster was inspired by my love of the plants, creatures, and spaces here in Syracuse.

My work is deeply embedded in a love for the natural world and a respect for it. I think those seeds were planted as a kid exploring swamps and forests here in Syracuse. The amount of biodiversity here is really incredible, and the amount of hiking and exploring you can do is too. The trails featured in the poster are my favorite hiking spots and the plants and organisms shown all occur here in the Syracuse region.

When I read the poem, it connected to that nostalgic love I have for our natural spaces. I wanted to communicate the vibrancy and exuberance that comes with our biome here in Syracuse.