GASTON, THE GREEN-NOSED ALLIGATOR, came to life through the pen of JAMES RICE in the early 1970s. Since then, GASTON and a host of friendly critters, have traveled the world over for adventure after adventure. Mr. Rice travels year-round throughout the country speaking to school children, college groups, and teachers. He captivates school children by playing his clarinet and telling the stories of the characters he has created in his 60-plus books, with over one and one-half million copies in print.

    James Rice has a flexible program, including a discussion of the creative process and the basic tools of the author/illustrator, the sketch book and journal. His presentations are highly motivated with the goal of instilling confidence and raising self-esteem, not only in the arts, but also in any endeavor the students may undertake. His presentations include drawing demonstrations, and reading as well as time for Q&A.

    He will present as many as five presentations a day at one school. The appearance fee for schools with book sales (books are available from Pelican Publishing Company) is $500.00 with book sales, $750.00 with no book sales, plus lodging and transportation. Convention/professional group presentations are $600 without book sales and $400 with sales, plus travel and lodging. Payment is due at the time of presentation.

    Mr. Rice is on the list of approved artists for Arts in Education programs by the Texas Commission of the Arts and the Louisiana State Arts Council. These groups make recommendations to funding agencies for grants in the AIE school programs.

    Mr. Rice, a native Texan, completed his MFA studies at Stephen F. Austin University and holds degrees from the University of Texas at Austin, and Howard Payne University. He has taught art and music at all levels, teaching in Texas, Virginia, Panama Canal Zone, and Louisiana. He was recognized by the Printing Industry of America, Incorporated, in 1979, 1990, and 1996 with awards of merit in outstanding graphic achievement.