Organizers of Books by the Banks: Cincinnati USA Book Festival are proud to present the 2010 Poster Debut Kickoff event on Wednesday, Sept. 1 at 7pm, at Joseph-Beth Booksellers, Rookwood Pavilion. Acclaimed illustrators John Maggard, Ryan Ostrander, C.F. Payne, and Will Hillenbrand will discuss their work and the illustrations they created exclusively for the annual Books by the Banks posters.

Since the book festival’s inauguration in 2007, the posters — now considered unique collectors’ items – have captured the essence of what Books by the Banks means to the community. John Maggard will debut his 2010 poster during this event. Following the discussion, all four artists will sign posters for purchase. the cost of the new 2010 poster is $15, and the previous years’ posters are $10 each.

About the illustrators:

• 2010 - John Maggard’s highly visible mini-marathon posters have delivered exceptional artwork that exhibits a unique personality and distinguishes that particular marathon, the American Heart Association, and himself. People are drawn to John’s wit and trademark illustrative style that gives a realist, yet slightly skewed view of the subject. A graduate of Miami University, he has taught illustration classes at the College of Mount St. Joseph and the Art Academy of Cincinnati, and has worked in the printing, design, and publishing fields at Gibson Greeting, NCR, Steinau-Fisher Studio, and Wanamaker Advertising. He is a member of the Society of Illustrators, NYC. He lives in Terrace Park.
• 2009 - Ryan Ostrander worked as an illustrator and graphic artist at the Cincinnati Post for eight years and is now art director at Tracker Products in Erlanger. He has received numerous awards from Scripps Howard News Service, The Associated Press of Ohio, Kentucky Press Association, and The Society of Professional Journalists, which has named him “Best Graphic Artist” three times. He lives in Norwood.
• 2008 – C.F. Payne’s artwork has graced the covers of Time magazine, Reader’s Digest, Sports Illustrated, The New York Times Book Review, and many more. He has been commissioned to paint countless politicians, authors, and entertainers and has illustrated ten children’s picture books, including bestsellers The Remarkable Farkle McBride and Micawber, both written by John Lithgow. He lives in Evendale.
• 2007 - Will Hillenbrand is the acclaimed illustrator of many popular children’s books, including Louie, One Fine Trade, Counting Crocodiles, and Kiss the Cow. His highly anticipated new book, Don’t Slam the Door!, was released August 10. Born and raised in Cincinnati, he lives with his family in Terrace Park.

A percentage of the proceeds from all purchases made at Joseph-Beth Booksellers and Bronte Bistro anytime during the Poster Debut day, Wednesday, Sept 1, will benefit Books by the Banks. A  coupon is recommended.

For more information on the Poster Debut event at Joseph-Beth Booksellers, call 513-396-8960. Joseph-Beth Booksellers is located in the Rookwood Pavilion at Madison and Edwards Roads; or visit online at www.josephbeth.com.