AN ARTIST’S AMERICA

Organic fruit-juice entrepreneur Albert (founder of Sir Real Juices) shares his passion for pop-art-inspired collages that incorporate the ubiquitous “modern hieroglyphics” of mass-market consumer packaging. Albert employs an accessible and kid-friendly technique as he reimagines in collage such American icons as the presidents, the Gettysburg Address and Mount Rushmore. He pairs each effort with chatty, encouraging explanatory notes that detail his intent and share specifics. Many will be mesmerized and prompted to search for images of famous females in advertising (Land O’Lakes Princess, Little Debbie, Aunt Jemima, etc.) in his homage to Lazarus’s “The New Colossus” or to try to spot the ubiquitous beer-brewing patriot Sam Adams in “The Signing of the Declaration of Independence.” The enthusiastic tone and fun-loving approach may inspire kids to try their own collages, though the skimpy instructions may present a challenge. A solid choice for museum shops and library collections that emphasize arts and crafts and share an affection for pop art. In sum, a lighthearted and “green” approach that melds creation and recycling. (workshop suggestions) (Nonfiction. 7 & up)