Behind the Scenes of Small Living Things: The Magical Art of Eric Carle

A Virtual Program with Joshua Lessard

Go inside the creative process behind one of our most vibrant and family‑friendly exhibitions. In this virtual program, Director of Exhibitions Joshua Lessard shares how he transformed an exhibition organized by The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art into the immersive, playful experience visitors see today. Through stories, visuals, and design insights, Joshua reveals how the team brought Eric Carle’s beloved characters and tiny creatures to life in a way that captivates both children and adults.

You’ll learn how the exhibition’s layout, color palette, and interactive elements were developed; how original artwork and process materials were selected; and how the final design balances education, nostalgia, and fun. This behind‑the‑scenes look offers a deeper appreciation for the artistry of Eric Carle and the thoughtful work that goes into creating a dynamic museum experience.

Image Credit: Eric Carle, Illustration for The Very Quiet Cricket. Collection of the Eric and Barbara Carle Foundation.   © 1990 Penguin Random House LLC.