West Virginia Independence Hall (WVIH) in Wheeling will host their Halloween bash on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 1 – 4 p.m. All ages are invited for a fun-filled afternoon of spooky tales and caricature drawings from 1-3 p.m. with J.D. Williamson, PBS Storyteller, author and artist. A special “trick or treat” will take place throughout the Hall from 3 – 4 p.m., where children can collect treats to take home. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes, and light refreshments will be served. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.
Williamson will amaze and astound your entire family with his stories while drawing with audience participation, jokes and interactive games. He draws cartoon portraits at world record-breaking speeds. West Virginia tales from the past, present and future will be shared for all ages to enjoy. Afterward, Williamson will create his superfast cartoon portrait drawings for each child, using their name to create a monster, ghost or alien. A fun keepsake for each one to take home.
Williamson received a B.A. in Fine Arts from Berea College with an independent study in cartoon art and graphics. Published cartoonist and illustrator for children’s books, editorial cartoons and commercial artwork. Besides his work on PBS, he is a catalog artist in schools for Artsbridge in Parkersburg, W.Va. and is supported by the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History.
For more information about the Halloween Bash and WVIH, contact Debbie Jones, site manager, at (304) 238-1300 or Deborah.J.Jones@wv.gov.