The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Eric Carle, and Syracuse!

At The Art Store, we believe in celebrating creativity in all its forms, and this week, we’re reflecting on the life and work of one of the most beloved children’s book authors and illustrators—Eric Carle. Best known for The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Carle’s unique style of mixed media paper art and collage has captivated generations of readers, young and old. As we remember his incredible legacy, we also acknowledge his deep roots in Syracuse, NY, the city where he spent part of his childhood.

 

Eric Carle’s distinctive illustration style is instantly recognizable, and his innovative use of mixed media is at the heart of his work. Carle’s illustrations often begin with hand-painted papers, which are then cut and layered to create vibrant, textured imagery. This technique allows for a tactile, dynamic quality to his artwork that truly pops off the page. By combining bright colors, bold shapes, and intricate textures, Carle was able to breathe life into the simplest of concepts—making his art feel playful, yet sophisticated.

 

At The Art Store, we love how Carle’s approach aligns with the creative possibilities offered by collage and mixed media. Whether you're working on a project for a gallery show or simply want to explore your artistic expression at home, Carle’s style demonstrates how different materials and textures can come together to tell a story. You don’t need to be an expert artist to experiment with these techniques—just a few basic supplies like colored papers, glue, and scissors are all it takes to start your own collage creations.

 

Released in 1969, The Very Hungry Caterpillar is arguably Carle’s most famous book, and its simple yet profound story has made it a favorite for countless readers. The tale of a small caterpillar munching through various foods before metamorphosing into a beautiful butterfly is not only a delightful read but also an educational experience that teaches counting, days of the week, and the life cycle of a butterfly.

 

While the text is simple, it is Carle’s vibrant and playful illustrations that elevate the book to something extraordinary. His signature paper-cut collage style captures the essence of the caterpillar’s journey, making it one of the most recognized children's books of all time. For those of us who have grown up with The Very Hungry Caterpillar, it’s easy to see how Carle’s work has inspired so many to explore their own creative journeys in the world of art.

 

Eric Carle was born in Syracuse, and spent part of his childhood here before his family moved to Germany. Though he lived here only for a time, his connection to Syracuse is a point of pride for many in the area. It’s inspiring to think that a small town in Upstate New York helped shape the life of an artist whose work would go on to touch millions of lives around the world. We celebrate not only Carle’s art but also his roots in our community, and we’re proud to be part of a city that can claim him as one of its own!

 

Inspired by Eric Carle’s signature mixed media collage style, why not explore this technique yourself? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, creating with hand-painted paper and collage can be a fun, rewarding experience. At The Art Store, we’ve been part of the Syracuse art community for 51 years, and we offer a wide range of supplies that can help you get started, from textured papers and paints to cutting tools and adhesives. You can also enroll in a class to explore your curiosities with collage even further! 

 

Consider diving into the world of nature-inspired art, just as Carle did. Try cutting shapes from colorful paper to create your own interpretations of animals, landscapes, or abstract designs. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, tell a story through your own collage work—maybe a journey of transformation, much like the caterpillar’s! The possibilities are endless, and the beauty of mixed media is that it encourages exploration and innovation.