It is difficult to explain how the works of Walter Wick are different from other "find the hidden objects" kind of books. His use of constructing things in 3-D, creating phantom images, and other perplexing illusions makes way for his very unique photography in the books that he writes. To get an idea of what his books are like, it is best to see actual samples of his work. Here is a link to his website where you can see more about his wonderful books: http://walterwick.com/cys_main.htm Once you go to this link, click on the book that you would like to see more about for actual pages of the book. Two of my favorites are Cool Collections and Night Before Christmas.
Then, if you would like to see more of how Walter Wick creates his amazing photos for his books, here is a great video touring his Firehouse Studio where he works. It shows his sets and process in preparation of his book, Can You See What I See? On a Scary, Scary Night. It is very fascinating and I would reccomend this video to any elementary aged child interested in creating their own structures. Here is the link: http://vimeo.com/10505003
Reading these books with a child will keep them enthralled and entertained each time you read them. But, if your child would like to exercize that artist inside of himself, why don't you try having your child create his own "find the hidden object" book. There are two ways to approach this process. The first would be for the child to construct with actual objects as Mr. Wick does in preparation for his books. For more ideas on how to do this, here is another link to his website where he demonstrates various ways to make objects appear to float. http://walterwick.com/ispy_fantasy_bts.htm This technique may seem complicated, but could be adapted and simplified for a child's creation.
I love the idea of a child attaching various items onto a clear sheet of plexiglass material and then photographing it. While elementary school aged children will have a great time experimenting with this technique, younger children could also construct things as well, but in simpler form. Just find different interesting objects, attach them to white cardboard, and photograph it. While you may lose a bit of the 3-D effect, your young artist will still have awesome results.
Children I have worked with have absolutely loved developing their own books. It gives them a chance to experiment with the actual construction, while also exploring different colors and patterns as well. Once you have photos of the various creations, just add the captions, on the computer or even handwritten, of the objects that you will find. And there you are.. your child has become an author of his own book!! So, check out some of Walter Wick's wonderful books and explore the endless possibilities as you create an original work of your budding artist.
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