Chanda Patel
Originally from the Philadelphia area, currently lives in Chicago, where she works as a designer, creating experiences and services for clients in a range of industries. Â Her work draws on research and a passion for understanding people and their stories. Â Chanda holds a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University. Â Mother Beach is her first illustration project.
Clarabelle van Niekerk
A long time resident artist for the Erie Arts Council, travels among grade schools and conducts workshops that infuse various forms of art, music, dance, and theatre into education. Â Born of Afrikaans decent, she holds a Masters of Fine Arts degree from the University of Orange Free State in South Africa.Â
Clarabelle also toured Europe as a cellist for The Free State Orchestra and was awarded a South African Grammy for most popular CD. She is the Founder of the London Puppet Theatre and winner of many international awards including the Perry Cumberland Excellence in Puppetry Award.
Mark Weber
Mark Weber’s work has appeared in many publications including The New York Times; The Washington Post; Cricket; Rolling Stone; The Wall Street Journal; Highlights for Children; The Philadelphia Inquirer and The Chicago Tribune to name a few. Â
He recently illustrated the 50th anniversary edition of Little Toot and the Lighthouse. Â His paintings can be found in both galleries and private collections in North America and Europe. Â An Erie, Pennsylvania native, he lives and works in Southern New Jersey with his wife, Chris and stepdaughter, Kelsie.