Final weeks to see art by Hamilton native, illustrator Robert McCloskey in Cincinnati

Credit: DaytonDailyNews

There’s still time to see the special exhibition at the Cincinnati Art Museum of Hamilton’s own Robert McCloskey.

Make Way for Ducklings: The Art of Robert McCloskey will be on view through Sept. 9.

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The exhibition delves into the life of the writer and illustrator of numerous classic children’s books, including “Lentil,” “Blueberries for Sal” and “Make Way for Ducklings.”

The recipient of two Caldecott Medals and three Caldecott Honors, McCloskey was a major force in 20th century children’s literature.

McCloskey was born in Hamilton in 1914. He spent his childhood years in the Butler County city before attending art school in Boston in the early 1930s.

Ian MacKenzie-Thurley, executive director of the Fitton Center for Creative Arts, speaks during the dedication of the Robert McCloskey mural at 20 High St. in Hamilton in 2016. The mural depicts some of McCloskey works, including “Blueberries for Sal” and “Make Way for Ducklings.”

Credit: Eric Hubbard

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Credit: Eric Hubbard

McCloskey’s books “Lentil,” “Homer Price” and “Centerburg Tales” recall his childhood in Hamilton.

“McCloskey’s illustrations do more than visually captivate readers —they capture the essence of life’s simple pleasures, reminding viewers to enjoy the little things and savor each day,” said Emily Holtrop, curator of the exhibition and director of learning and interpretation at Cincinnati Art Museum.

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“The Cincinnati Art Museum is thrilled to welcome a collection of artworks that engage and delight visitors of all ages and generations,” she said in a statement.

The exhibition includes McCloskey’s illustrations for his own books as well as those for books by other authors.

Lentil, a character in Robert McCloskey's first book "Lentil," plays the harmonica for all of downtown Hamilton in Lentil Park.

Credit: Staff photo by Nick Daggy

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Credit: Staff photo by Nick Daggy

The exhibition also features a family-friendly drawing activity and related programs. They include: Artist Workshop: Animal Illustrations on Aug. 18; Art After Ducklings on Aug. 31; and Family First Saturday: Make Way for Ducklings on Sept. 1.

To learn more about the exhibition and related programs, click here.

Admission to the Cincinnati Art Museum is free. The museum is located at 953 Eden Park Drive.

Robert McCloskey was born in Hamilton in 1914. The Caldecott Medal and Caldecott Honor-winning children’s book author and illustrator died in 2003.

Credit: FILE PHOTO

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Credit: FILE PHOTO

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