AUTHOR / ILLUSTRATOR

Narelle Oliver is the author and illustrator of a number of award-winning children's picture books including: LEAF TAIL, HIGH ABOVE THE SEA, THE BEST BEAK IN BOONAROO BAY, THE HUNT, SAND SWIMMERS, BABY BILBY WHERE DO YOU SLEEP?, MERMAIDS MOST AMAZING, THE VERY BLUE THINGAMAJIG, DANCING THE BOOM-CHA-CHA BOOGIE, and HOME.

Her most recent Australian picture book, HOME (Omnibus/Scholastic 2006) won a NSW Premier's Award (2007) whilst being short-listed for the CBC PIcture Book of the Year 2007, Qld Premier's Award 2006, and the Wilderness Society Environmental Award for Children's Literature 2007. It also forms the basis of the design of the new Brisbane City Council children's library in Brisbane Square.

Many of Narelle's titles have been inspired by natural environments she has explored, while others have mathematical, historical and social themes. The linocut print medium is a special feature of her illustrations which have been exhibited throughout Australia.

Narelle's latest picture book, TWILIGHT HUNT (Star Bright Books, NY, USA) set in North American Oak-Hickory forest, was released in the USA September, 2007. She is currently working on text and illustrations of a contemporary Australian fable, due for publication in 2009.

Narelle offers a range of workshops and is happy to discuss a programme tailored to meet specific requirements and outcomes. Popular programme choices are as follows:

PICTURE BOOK DEMONSTRATIONS
-For prep to year 7 and secondary English/Art/Design students.
-Demonstration of process from inspiration to final publication, including writing, editing, storyboarding, research, design, drawing and preparation of finished artwork including a demonstration of the linoprinting process.
-4 x 45 min sessions per day, max group size: 60.

HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS
-Illustrating workshops featuring safe "white lino" printing. -No sharp tools.
-Planning a storyboard (Gr 5+).
-Writing (focus on narrative genre) with an emphasis on effective plot structure, word choice, using non-fiction or imaginary sources.

AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR-IN-RESIDENCE
-For primary students.
-A combination of picture book creation demonstrations and hands-on workshops culminating in presentation of student writing/illustrations.