Chris Raschka was an interesting person to research due to his unique artistic style and talented to both write and illustrate children's books. His illustrations tend to be either child-like, or cartoonish in appearance, and are splashed with vivid colors of paint (with a preference in watercolor). Chris received 2 caldecott medals for his work, one in 1993 for "Yo! Yes?" and another in 2006 for "The Hello, Goodbye Window." His illustrations are described by some as "musical," which parallels greatly with his love for the viola, which he has played professionally in two symphony orchestras. Chris' hobbies and interests range from yoga to knitting, playing solitaire to playing viola. Overall, this interesting illustrator has talents that branch far from just children's books.
I find Raschka's illustrations to be attractive and colorful pieces of individual art. His use of watercolor is smooth and almost liquid across the page, with noticeable brush strokes that add texture to each piece. I think this child-like approach is perfect for illustrations in children's books, because it is relatable to a child of young age. Some of his other illustrations, such as those from "Charlie Parker played be bop," are more of cartoonist pieces, where color stays within the lines and is often more solid and bold. Overall, I think that it is Chris Raschka's brilliant use of color along with his loose and childish style that is what grasps the interest of so many young readers.
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