Richland County seeking artists to illustrate children’s book

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Richland County is searching for artists to illustrate Tessa’s Tale, a children’s story featuring a fish whose adventures educate young readers about stormwater pollution.  

The activity book, which explores different water quality scenarios in a local waterway, will include six original illustrations. It will be distributed to school-age children.  

“We’re excited about having another opportunity to get the community involved in our outreach programs in a way that has a wide reach,” Chenille Williams, education program coordinator for Richland County’s Stormwater Management Division, said in a news release from the county.  “Tessa’s Tale was a joy to write, and I hope it has an impact on the lives of our budding environmentalists.” 

Artists versed in digital or traditional media, such as paint, pencil or charcoal, can apply for the commission as individuals or teams by visiting www.richlandcountysc.gov and navigating to the education tab on Stormwater Management’s page. The artist(s) chosen for the commission will receive compensation, according to the release.  

Illustrations should be geared toward children ages 7-12, and images that specifically reference the wildlife and waterways of the Midlands are preferred, the county said. Artists have until Oct. 22 to apply. 

“We all connect through stories and pictures, and this project is an imaginative and exciting way to engage young people as they learn more about how water moves through our land and communities,” said Richand County Councilwoman Allison Terracio, who represents District 5. “We are growing the next generation of conservationists.”