Ep. 52: Gene Barretta (Illustrator)
*We mention his new book but this was recorded a year ago.
Biography (written from Gene's perspective)
Gene - I moved 27 times - lived in six states - graduated NYU film school - interned at MTV - made industrial training videos - videotaped surgery - played in a rock band - spent a day with Mr. Rogers - spent an evening with Jim Henson - drew storyboards for Muppets From Space - performed some background Muppets - designed some Muppet characters - animated five short films for Sesame Street - and spent an afternoon inside Abbey Road Studios . . . all in preparation for a career as a children’s book author and illustrator. At least that’s what I like to tell myself.
But I think the seed was really planted long before I knew what the word “career” meant. Every weekday I watched the great children’s TV host, Gene London, as he told (and performed) captivating stories, while images came to life on his drawing table. Fortunately, we became friends and I was able to thank him. Thank you, Gene! Thank you! Thank you!
I write and illustrate most of my books, although I also write for other illustrators and illustrate for other authors. I am thrilled to have several of my books included in school curriculum, and some translated into Spanish, Chinese, and Braille. I am also grateful to have won some awards and honors along the way. One of my biggest honors has been to speak about my work on stage at the 92nd Street Y in New York.
If you’re a Muppets fan, you may want to check out a Vodcast/Podcast I started during the pandemic with my brother Bill, who is one of the Muppet performers, writers, directors, and producers. Lots of great guests! Click here: The Barretta Brothers (WARNING: Not all content is for young ears).
I have stopped moving around for the time being and live in Bryn Mawr, PA with my son and two cats.
Credits
Produced and Edited by Otter Castro
Research and Interview by Rich Wexler
Music
Richie by B.J Snowden
https://bjsnowdenmusic.com/
There Was a light Instrumental
I Never Feel Alone Instrumental by Stephen Bluhm
https://www.stephenbluhm.fun/
Website
