John Parra (Mexican American/Chicano, b. 1972)
Frida Paints in Bed, 2016
Illustration for Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos by Monica Brown, NorthSouth Books, 2017
Acrylic on illustration board
Signed bottom right corner
Board 11 ¾ x 18 ¾ inches
Copyright © 2017 John Parra

John Parra's artwork is inspired by Latino culture. He sees aspects of himself reflected in the life of Frida Kahlo. He and Kahlo share a passion for art, respect for nature, and find "inspiration and independence through perseverance, gratitude, and wonder." Parra paints on cold-press illustration board, which is a thick, textured surface that resembles wood. After painting the background, Parra sands the board to give it a worn look before painting his figures.

Parra's picture-book biography Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos (2017) was the recipient of ten awards including a Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor. The Pura Belpré Award is co-sponsored by REFORMA, this year's Carle Honors Angel.



All proceeds benefit The Carle's mission to instill a love of art and reading through picture books.

Artwork is framed by R. Michelson Galleries using archival materials.

Winners can take their artwork immediately after The Carle Honors. Absentee winners will receive their artwork via Federal Express; a flat shipping fee of $150 per artwork will apply.