Artist Highlight: Members of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators!
- Community Liaison Wild Scoops
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
This month we are so excited to be hosting a group show featuring work by Alaskan children's book illustrators at the Midtown Scoop Shop Art Wal! The artists featured use a variety of mediums and styles. We think it's the perfect fit for the shop as we celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month!
The artists will be hosting a First Friday celebration in the Annex on Friday September 5, 5-8pm. Stop by to say hello!
Read more about the artists featured below!


BARBARA J. SANTORA has had a long career in the graphic arts industry as well as being a retired K-12 art educator. She is a long-time resident of Fairbanks, Alaska. Ms. Santora has done illustration work for the Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service as well as Epicenter Press and several small businesses. Her current interest is in creating art for the children’s picture book industry. Visit her website for more information and art.


CHRIS FLOYD is a part-time illustrator with two published books under his belt. He has lived in Alaska for over 30 years, and currently resides in Eagle River. For a day job, he works all over Alaska as an environmental scientist.


JEN WANG has been drawing animals and plants since first learning to pick up a pencil. She specializes in oil and watercolor. She has a BFA in fine arts from College for Creative Studies in Detroit. She loves sharing ideas, receiving feedback, and hopes you will enjoy this show.


JENA BENTON is an educator, author, illustrator, and blogger who grew up in Sitka, Alaska. Her author debut picture book, KAUAI’S CALL, was published by Island Heritage Press May 2024. When she is not teaching or creating, you might just find her spending time with her husband and cats. She currently lives in Anchorage, Alaska.


LUCAS ELLIOTT is an Alaskan based Illustrator and graphic novelist. He’s worked on everything from character design to board games, as well as teaches illustration and graphic design at the UAA. Lucas' next graphic novel, SPY GRANDMA, is set to come out in the spring of 2026.


RUTH SCHOLL is a children’s book illustrator based in Fairbanks, AK. Ruth is an active member of SCBWI. When not holed up in her studio painting, you’ll find her running around like a crazy person taking care of her two wonderful kids, gardening, thrifting, or berry picking.
www.ruthscholl.com, Instagram: @ruthescholl


TAMORA HARDING-CHILDS is an Alaskan visual artist for over 25 years. She works year-round on art commissions and her illustration and design skills with SCBWI and local projects. She is seeking agency representation. Tamora resides in the majestic Matanuska Susitna Valley, creating in her cabin studio surrounded by natural found inspirations and her favorite children's picture books.
www.harding-childs.com, Instagram:@tamoraharding