The Children's Mural at the Ridgefield Library is a testament to the power of art and storytelling. It is a celebration of creativity, imagination, and the enduring magic of childhood.
Magical things are happening at the Ridgefield Library as it prepares to unveil the Children's Mural, a stunning display of art featuring the work of legendary author and former Ridgefield resident Maurice Sendak and Cynthia V. Meyers. The mural, a fundraiser to support the library, is a love letter to Ridgefield, an ode to children's literature, and an homage to the magic of childhood.
The collaboration between The Maurice Sendak Foundation and Meyers is creative serendipity. Brenda Mckinley, Ridgefield Library Director says, “Maurice Sendak had just such a fundamental influence on children's literature, and pulling in Cynthia's artistic eye and her Ridgefield references… it is truly something special.”
Jane Lindenburg, Ridgefield Library's Director of Development, played a pivotal role in connecting all the pieces and seeing the project through to fruition. She excitedly exclaimed, "The Maurice Sendak tiles arrived today! It feels like Christmas!"
The Children's Mural will feature 120 named 8" x 8" glass tiles, each showcasing original artwork by Cynthia V. Meyers alongside beloved characters from Maurice Sendak's books. The tiles are nearly sold out. Etch your name in Ridgefield Library history and be part of this magical Children’s Mural by purchasing a tile here.
The involvement of The Maurice Sendak Foundation in the project is particularly meaningful, as the Foundation also played a part in the construction of the new library building a decade ago. McKinley reflects on this, noting the sentimental and important connection to Maurice Sendak, especially considering this collaboration is happening now, a decade later.
The mural will be officially unveiled at the 2024 Annual Great Expectations Gala which will honor Marcie and Peter Coffin, a celebration marking the 10th Anniversary of the "new" Ridgefield Library.
McKinley expresses gratitude for the generosity of The Maurice Sendak Foundation and its Executive Director, Lynn Caponera. “They have been nothing but generous.” She also acknowledges Philip and Christine Lodewick, for whom the children's library is named. “Philip played a crucial role in reconnecting the library with the foundation. Philip, Christine, and Lynn Caponera have been longtime friends,” says McKinley.
Cynthia’s whimsical illustrations, combined with Sendak's iconic characters create a truly magical experience for visitors to the Philip and Christine Lodewick Family Children's Library.
The Ridgefield Library extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to bringing the Children's Mural to life. Special thanks are owed to The Maurice Sendak Foundation, USALLIANCE Financial for their generous gift in memory of Simon R. M. Walton, and the Friends of the Ridgefield Library.
To be a part of this enchanting project, visit the Children's Library to see sample tiles and the complete mural blueprint, or purchase a tile online. For more information click here or contact the Library's Development Director, Jane Lindenburg, at jglindenburg@ridgefieldlibrary.org or (203) 438-2282 ext. 104.
*Photo shows (l to r) Brenda McKinley Ridgefield Library Director, artist Cynthia Meyers, Ridgefield Library Children’s Librarian Kristina Lareau, and Jane Lindenburg, Director of Development at Ridgefield Library