The book is a heartwarming story about sibling love and the importance of patience and understanding.
Table of Contents
A Heartwarming Story of Sibling Love
Rebecca Lee Kunz’s Chooch Helped is a beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the story of Sissy, a young Cherokee girl, and her younger brother Chooch. The story begins with Sissy trying to help Chooch, but her efforts only seem to make things worse. As the day goes on, Sissy becomes increasingly frustrated with Chooch’s antics, and her patience wears thin.
Rogers, who had been researching the history of the Cherokee Nation, had been searching for a way to honor the contributions of the Cherokee people to the United States. She was introduced to Kunz, who shared his vision of creating a platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Native American communities. Rogers was immediately drawn to Kunz’s enthusiasm and passion, and the two began discussing the possibility of collaborating on a project.
The Birth of Chooch Helped
The idea for Chooch Helped was born out of a conversation between Rogers and Kunz about the importance of recognizing and celebrating Native American contributions. Rogers had been researching the history of the Cherokee Nation and was struck by the significant role that the Cherokee people had played in shaping the United States.
“It was a very intimate, very personal, very quiet moment. I wanted to capture that feeling of being alone with the marsh, and with the crawdads, and with the world, and just being present in that moment.”
The Art of Intimacy in Illustration
Kunz’s work is characterized by its ability to evoke a sense of intimacy and quiet contemplation. Her illustrations often feature simple, yet evocative compositions that invite the viewer to step into the world of the story.
The Power of Simple Composition
Kunz’s use of simple composition is a key element in creating a sense of intimacy. Her illustrations often feature a single figure or a small group of figures, set against a simple background. This allows the viewer to focus on the subject and the emotions they convey.
A Life of Artistic Expression
Kunz’s artistic journey began when she was just a child. Growing up in a family of artists, she was surrounded by creativity and inspiration. Her parents, both artists themselves, encouraged her to explore her artistic side from a young age. This nurturing environment allowed Kunz to develop her skills and style, which would eventually become the foundation of her successful career.
Early Influences and Training
Kunz’s early influences were largely shaped by her family and the art world around her. She was exposed to various art styles and techniques, which helped her develop her unique voice. Her parents, both artists, taught her the fundamentals of drawing and painting, while also encouraging her to experiment and explore different mediums. Some of her early influences include the works of artists such as Frida Kahlo and Georgia O’Keeffe, who were known for their bold and expressive styles.
Career Highlights
Kunz’s career has been marked by several notable achievements. She has had her work featured in various exhibitions and publications, including the prestigious Art in America magazine. Her art has also been commissioned by several high-profile clients, including the New Mexico Museum of Art. Some of her notable works include “The Tree of Life,” a series of paintings that explore the symbolism and significance of the tree in different cultures.
Current Projects and Ventures
Kunz is currently working on several exciting projects.