Published on October 18, 2017 by Ashley Smith  
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The Samford University Art Gallery is featuring the work of children’s books illustrator and author Rob McClurkan Oct. 16 – Nov. 11, with an artist reception Nov. 9 from 4-5:30 p.m. and special Homecoming weekend hours Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.  

According to Joe Cory, associate professor of art and design, “It is a pleasure to welcome Rob McClurkan back to Samford to showcase his wonderful illustrations in the Samford Art Gallery. Rob has over two decades of experience as a professional designer and illustrator. Many children will recognize his work as lead illustrator and storyboard artist for the popular The Bible App for Kids, which has been downloaded over 10 million times. He is also a published illustrator and children’s book author and when you see his work it is clear that Rob truly enjoys the ability to tell meaningful stories through his illustrations. We are excited our students will have the opportunity to meet Rob and learn more about his journey from Samford to a successful career as an illustrator.”  

adventure by Rob McClurkanA 1994 Samford graduate with a Bachelor of Science in graphic design, McClurkan began his career in graphic design but had the opportunity to work with the Southern Baptist North American Mission Board and their children’s magazine where he began illustrating. His passion is encouraging children to read and having the opportunity to see children enjoying his work.  

There is “magic” in inspiring children in this way, notes McClurkan. He adds, “Samford was a great experience for me and opened the doors for my career path. I am honored to be back and have my first gallery exhibition here.” 

McClurkan is busy working with numerous publishers and clients including Bloomsbury, Hallmark, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Scholastic, National Geographic for Kids, Highlights for Children, American Greetings, Peaceable Kingdom, Mattel, and Amazon. He has several  new books in the works. Playdate Rules is releasing in November. Other notable books include Aw, Nuts, and Dive In!  The exhibit offers a sampling of his digital illustrations for books as well as his personal pieces that demonstrate his expansive creative talent. During his visit on campus, he will meet with students and provide an opportunity for them to learn more about his career and the graphic illustration field today.  

The Samford Art Gallery is located in Swearingen Hall and is open to the public Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 

 
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 6,101 students from 45 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks 6th nationally for its Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.