A Decade of Draggies
Over ten years ago, artist Bruce McCorkindale donated both his time and talents to design a mascot for the Gretna Children’s Library. Little did he know, it was the beginning of a long (and fun) relationship.
In fact, it was a personal relationship that brought about the first dragons: Bruce was dating the GPL librarian who would eventually become his wife. “When Rebecca approached me about creating a dragon mascot for the Children’s Library, I have to admit that there was a bit of wooing going on.
But even if I hadn’t wanted to impress her, it was such a unique request that I would have done it anyway. I’ve done a lot of comic book work, but very little ‘children’s book’ style illustration. This is how I approach Draggy, and it’s always fun finding out what situation he’s going to be in next.”
Over the years, Bruce continued to donate his talents for various events such as GPL’s Free Comic Book Days. But he’s best known at GPL for his whimsical artwork for the cover of the library’s Summer Learning Program. And this year marks his ninth summer booklet cover design for GPL.
“Has it really been ten years?! It doesn’t feel like it, but looking through my file it’s obviously the case. I’ve definitely created lots of Draggies. I hope kids of all ages enjoy seeing his exploits as much as I enjoy drawing them.”
