The Journey From Home: Illustrations of James E. Ransome

Before that unforgettable trip I had never imagined that there was a museum to preserve and promote the art of illustration. 

From the moment I entered the building, I knew it was a special place. The artwork hanging on the walls was magical, and that magic drew me in and energized my creative mind. When I saw my first Bernie Fuchs, I was hooked on whatever they were drinking, and I knew I wanted some.

As I grew as an artist, my college work was accepted into the Society’s student show. I became a member as soon as I could and enjoyed bringing my first client there for lunch in the members-only dining room. Over the years I have had numerous works accepted in the Annual Exhibition and the Original Art Exhibit, and I have been a juror for both shows. Two highlights of my artistic career were having my illustration on the cover of the 62nd Annual of Illustration and receiving a gold medal in 2021. And now, for the trifecta, my solo exhibition The Journey from Home will feature 26 works spanning my 35-year career as an illustrator. Many of the works are from the over 73 children’s books that I have illustrated, including four books that I have written, and 20 books authored by my loving wife Lesa Cline-Ransome. The show also includes Bikers in the Park, my first student illustration exhibited at the Society, editorial illustrations for Alta magazine, and theater posters for Arena Stage. 

I have loved every step of my journey to becoming an artist, which started with drawing and coloring with my stepsisters when I was a child. My interest in art flourished in high school, less than 16 miles from the Society in the small suburban town of Bergenfield, New Jersey. After graduating from Pratt Institute four years later, I was illustrating full-time. Although I was born in North Carolina and moved north when I was 15, most of the major events of my life have revolved in and around New York City, a place that I call home. So, my home is here in the big apple at the Society of Illustrators, and it’s an honor to share The Journey from Home with my family, friends, and colleagues. 

– James E. Ransome