A Celebration of Latino Artistic and Literary Expression

Meet Author Monica Brown and Illustrator Rafael Lopez

The South Madison Branch Library will close October 5 to move into new space across the parking lot, but library programs continue. Join us for a celebration of of Latino/a artistic and literary expression with two award-winning leaders of Latino/a cultural affirmation and understanding on Wednesday, October 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Harambee Center at 2202 S. Park St. Monica Brown (author) and Rafael Lopez (illustrator) collaborated to create My Name is Celia/Me llama Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz/La vida de Celia Cruz, which won the Americas Award for Children's Literature and a Pura Belpre Honor. Brown and Lopez will discuss the importance of Latino/a cultural expression and storytelling in the understanding of our collective histories. They will also read their book aloud together and talk about the creative and collaborative process. Copies of some of their books will be available for sale and signing after the program. Monica Brown is the author of several award-winning bilingual books, inspired by her Peruvian-American heritage. The art of Rafael Lopez is a fusion of strong graphical style and magical symbolism, born of his experience growing up in Mexico City. Lopez envisioned and led the Urban Art Trail Project that transformed a blighted San Diego neighborhood and serves as a model for other urban renewal projects. He designed the Latino Dance Stamp and a stamp commemorating the civil rights case, Mendez v. Westminster. He has won several awards for his book illustrations. Light refreshments will be served. This event was made possible by a grant from the Dane County Cultural Affairs Commission and a donation from the Friends of the South Madison Branch Library.