PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- March 12, 2003 -- The University of Rhode Island Feinstein Providence Campus Gallery will feature the work of seven local well-known children’s book illustrators to recognize the role of the visual arts in literacy and to celebrate "The Month of the Young Child."

The exhibit runs from April 1 through April 30, with a Gallery Night reception on April 17 from 5 to 9 p.m. During the reception, there will be an opportunity to meet the artists for book signings.

Among the notable artists are graduates and faculty members of the Rhode Island School of Design’s Illustration Program. Included in the exhibit will be the work of Robert Alley, Mary Jane Begin, Christopher Denise, Dean Morrissey, Salley Mavor, Marcia Sewall, and the late Edward Shenton.

The exhibit will provide a glimpse into the creative process from initial sketch to final publication and the stylistic range children’s book illustration can make in stimulating the senses, whetting the appetite and inspiring young readers to journey into the world of the imagination through books.

The exhibit is located on the first-and second-floor lobbies of the campus, 80 Washington St. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Sundays). For information call 277-5206.