Kirk Reedstrom, ‘16

Sketch // Comic: The Making of Duck and Moose shows behind the scenes of author, illustrator, and Centenary alumnus Kirk Reedstrom’s graphic novel series Duck and Moose. What is a graphic novel, you ask? Simply put: “It’s a fancy way of saying a comic book,” says Reedstrom.

This exhibition shows the time, care, and dedication Reedstrom put towards the creation of his two books Duck Moves In! and Moose Blasts Off! as he made certain decisions regarding overall design and wording. From the initial sketches to the final printed comic, visitors embark on a visual journey through the careful steps of creation. From early drafts of the cover, titles, and storyboard to the final product, you will see how the characters develop in shape, size, and color, as well as emotionally.  

Despite their differences, Duck and Moose demonstrate the power of friendship, compromise, and imagination – inspiring young readers to also be kind and accept others’ differences. Witness the transformation of this unlikely pair as they take on thrilling adventures and become lifelong friends.

I am interested in creativity as a mode of self-reflection, a means of engaging with the subconscious to discover more about ourselves, our neighbors, and our communities. My art can often be described as quirky, whimsical, loose, vulnerable, and playful, which allows for the viewer to inhabit the role of a participant or collaborator. Using materials that can often be found around a house: markers, colored pencils, pens, found paper, and watercolor, I strive to make my work accessible to give permission to the viewer to create their own work and foster interaction.

Special thanks to:

Ash Avegno
Debbie Brown
Mary Caruthers
Hannah Dimmel
Teddy Graves
Colt Hamilton
Andrea Kay

Robin Lemelle
Reece Maguire
LC MOffitt
Mackenzie Newlan
Kyle Ramirez
Jordyn Templeton