Campus & Community

‘Polar Express’ author makes HUAM stop

2 min read

The Harvard University Art Museums (HUAM) will welcome Chris Van Allsburg, author and illustrator of “The Polar Express,” on Dec. 4 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Fogg Art Museum. The focus of the event, held in collaboration with the Cambridge Public Library and students and teachers of the Cambridge Public School District, is an exhibition of Van Allsburg-inspired artwork by more than 200 area school students. These artworks have been submitted for an exhibit set to open at the Fogg on Dec. 4 (through Jan. 7, 2005).

On the morning of the event, beginning at 11 a.m., there will be a viewing of the exhibition, readings of Van Allsburg’s works, a sing-along of holiday songs, a searching game, and sketching in the galleries. Refreshments will also be provided. At noon, there will be a half-hour Q & A period with Van Allsburg where children will have the opportunity to ask the author questions and student representatives from each participating classroom will guide him through the exhibition.

The Cambridge Public Library will also host a lecture and book signing by Van Allsburg at 2 p.m. the same afternoon at the Cambridge YMCA’s Durrell Hall.

Van Allsburg is the author of “Jumanji,” “The Garden of Abdul Gasazi,” “The Widow’s Broom,” and most recently, “Zathura.”

Admission is free to these events. Call (617) 495-4402 for further information.