BROWARD COUNTY, FL - The free Ashley Bryan Art Series Youth Retreat and Youth Art Festival takes place Friday, January 27 and Saturday, January 28, 2023, at the Broward County African American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC), 2650 Sistrunk Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311, 954-357-6282. The two-day Ashley Bryan Art Series hosts nationally recognized children's book authors/illustrators of African descent to share their craft, instill a love of reading and inspire a passion for art. 

The Ashley Bryan Art Series Youth Retreat on Friday, January 27 from 9:30AM to 1PM, features writer/illustrators Jerry Craft and Kaylani Juanita. Designed for children ages 8 to 10, the retreat includes a special presentation by award-winning writer/illustrator Jerry Craft, outbreak activity sessions and a live storytelling performance. Each child will receive lunch and a signed book by Jerry Craft.

On Saturday, January 28, from 11AM to 3PM, the Youth Art Festival offers families with children ages 5 and up a free afternoon of crafting, activities, face painting, African storytelling and eight different art-making experiences. Books & Books will have books available for purchase that can be signed by the illustrator.

Beginning December 3, preregister online for January 27 and/or January 28 or by calling the Youth Services Desk at 954-357-6209. 

For more information on featured authors and illustrators from past Art Series, as well as other resources promoting literacy and children's book illustration, please visit Ashley Bryan Project: A Resource of Exceptional Children's Books and Book Art by Authors/Illustrators of African Descent, a digital resource for all ages.

For more information on the Ashley Bryan Art Series or online resources, please email  ldjackson@broward.org. 

The Ashley Bryan Art Series is sponsored by the Friends of the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center.