MEET THE ILLUSTRATORS

Lauren Crymes

“Christmas Night on the Farm”

Paige Mason

“Grandma’s Thanksgiving Dinner”

Lauren Crymes is an artist and designer from Conway Arkansas, who has always loved the printed word. Her primary medium is oil paint and currently, she is working at the Log Cabin Democrat as a Graphic Designer. Lauren has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Central Arkansas and is also studying design at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Christmas Night on the Farm was her first Illustration project, but she was easily inspired by the author’s personal memories. The artist hopes her work brings the Christmas spirit and this Christmas story to many people for years to come.

Wade Hampton

“Down Home in Arkansas”

(A Family Reunion Story)

Rex DeLoney’s

“My Easter Story”

Colorful, vibrant artwork conveys the messages of hope, faith, and the everyday joys and struggles of life. His work is reflective of his life, past and present; a life that has been enriched with the love and desire to create art that tells a story and evokes memories for anyone that views his work. Mr. DeLoney’s artworks are created from spiritual themes and meaningful, thought-provoking expressions of humanity as it relates to the African American Culture.

Necla Yildirim Unal

It's My Birthday!

Rhonda Adams

"Papa's Pets"

Is a lover of all things creative. She was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and currently resides in Little Rock, where she works as a gifted and talented education facilitator. Rhonda attended the Art Institute of Houston and uses her creative abilities to educate students through amazing 3D interactive bulletin board displays. Working on a project for Disney and being able to expose children to creativity on its highest level through Destination Imagination creative problem-solving competitions, are just a few of the accomplishments that make Rhonda the creative powerhouse that she is. As an ongoing extension of "All things Creative", Rhonda enjoys creating paintings that enhance a great story.

Craig Stanley

"My Sister My Friend"

Was raised in Kansas City where his love of art was nurtured. At the age of 15, he started creating works of art for several local companies. This exposure led to the opening of his first art studio. A few years after high school, he moved to Atlanta, GA to attend school, furthering his knowledge as a graphic designer and illustrator. While still in school Craig was recruited to paint several national and world tour music stage backdrops for music recording artists. This is when he entered the world of film production. During this time he started painting artwork for television shows, commercials, and feature films. Now with over two decades of experience creating art in the entertainment industry, Craig is known for his work with brands such as Tyler Perry Studios, Oprah Winfrey Network, Disney, Netflix, Sony, & Paramount Pictures.

Paige Mason was born in Fresno, California, in 1992, where she spent most of her life until receiving an athletic scholarship from the University of Arkansas – Little Rock. Because of her years dedicated to the sport of soccer, her talents prevailed and opened doors of opportunity as she decided where to begin her secondary education. Her goal in life was to use her love of soccer to aid the expenses of college and pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts.

Wade Hampton Birthed in the state forged by Native Americans, Civil War battles, blues and folk music, diamonds, and nine students that helped establish the spirit of the civil rights movement, Wade Hampton was provisioned with inspiration that would lay claim to a unique journey of artistic declaration.

The history of the ‘Natural State’ broadened Wade’s view to seeking education within the ‘Show-Me State’. That which gave way to the lifestyle and culture of the ‘Big Apple’. This ‘gateway to the world’ is where Wade honed his artistic talents on the canvas. Leading him to an artisan’s approach towards dance and movement.