Find the Bigger Picture with the Children’s Illustrator in Residence

When we are consumed by our thoughts and emotions, it can be difficult to find the right words to express ourselves. However, words aren’t the only way we can share how we’re feeling. 

Sara Monadizadeh, the 2024 Children’s Illustrator in Residence, hopes to inspire some of the youngest Library goers to draw from their own experiences — quite literally. 

Bringing a passion for art to Calgary 

Wherever life has taken Sara, her love of art has carried with her. 

Sara has lived around the world and is happy to now be settled in Calgary. She has an immense appreciation for the multiculturalism and art scene in the city. 

“It’s a really beautiful, welcoming city. I don’t feel like a stranger here at all,” Sara says after being in Calgary for the past year. 

Sara has found many opportunities to hone into her artistic abilities, most recently as the Library’s Children’s Illustrator in Residence. The role also incorporates her passion for teaching and sharing art as a form of expression. By collaborating with communities, she has been able to develop engaging programs that promote cultural understanding and creative expression. 

Sara’s style combines traditional techniques with digital artistry. Her work transforms art into interactive experiences and highlights complex global issues through a child's perspective.    

Drawing from experiences 

It may be surprising, but Sara says even the youngest artists can draw from deep concepts. While artists can range in experience and talent, everyone can create pieces with meaning.  

“We see things around social issues, multiculturalism because we have so many different backgrounds in Canada, inclusivity, peace, and environmental sustainability,” she says about the art she sees from children. 

Children of all skill levels are welcome to attend the Children’s Illustrator in Residence office hours and in-person programs at select Library locations. Learn more about the residency.

About the Library Residency Programs   

The Children’s Illustrator in Residence is one of eight residencies that take place at Calgary Public Library each year. These short-term community engagement initiatives support individuals and collectives living and working in Calgary and surrounding First Nations communities.