RISD Continuing Education instructor Jason LeClair began his journey with a single course in cartooning at 15 years old. More than two decades later, a colleague’s recommendation led to a position teaching Critical Studies in Art for the Pre-College program. Since then, this instructor has taught across multiple RISD CE programs, and will be teaching for the Adult Extension program this spring (Children’s Book Illustration: Introduction, starting April 21).
Jason shares that teaching “Children’s Book Illustration: Introduction” offers a unique opportunity to explore how storytelling can shape young minds and serve future generations.
“I often say, ‘If you want to find me, I’ll be in my sketchbook.'” Jason adds, “I believe in lifelong learning and my practices as an illustrator and theatrical designer are about communication of an idea, or a feeling. Good teaching is to listen and learn while informing and imparting. It’s made me a stronger storyteller listening to how my students teach me.”
Jason’s message to prospective students is to “be prepared to be challenged in the best ways possible. … Art is a process of exploration, risk-taking, failure, and perseverance. The diligence to persist in practice, despite setbacks, is what ultimately leads to creative breakthroughs.”
Children’s Book Illustration: Introduction begins Apr 21, 2025. Enroll now – the registration deadline is April 17, 2025 at 11:59 pm ET.
—Jason LeClair, RISD CE illustration instructor
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Gallery of Jason LeClair’s artwork
