dinosaur art, science, imagination

Thu, 09/10/2026 - 9:00am

PORTLAND — Dinosaurs are coming to Portland Public Library. Illustration Institute presents "Illustrasaurus: The Dinosaur Art Show for the Eons", a wide-ranging exhibition of dinosaur art curated by Illustration Institute's William Roth and hosted in PPL's Lewis Gallery. The exhibition brings together art, science, and reading through the many ways artists have imagined these prehistoric creatures.

Opening Friday, October 2, "Illustrasaurus" will be on view through December 31, 2026. Dinosaur fans of all ages will encounter original paleo art from the Indianapolis Children's Museum's Lanzendorf Collection and rare books from the Linda Hall Library alongside artwork from dinosaur stories including Dinotopia, Danny and the Dinosaur, Hattie and Hudson, and Saturday Night at the Dinosaur Stomp. Process sketches and finished book artwork will also be on view.

Spanning more than a century of dinosaur art, the exhibition shows how artists' depictions have evolved as paleontologists have uncovered new evidence about the creatures that once roamed the Earth. The exhibition includes works ranging from contemporary pieces to artwork dating as far back as 1905.

"The collaboration between science and illustration is what the paleoart in our show depicts," says Scott Nash, Executive Director of Illustration Institute. "This exhibition tells a story that links art, science, and reading for people of all ages, and that's what 'Illustrasaurus' is about."

"Dinosaurs are extinct, so they must be imagined," says William Roth, curator of "Illustrasaurus". "This fact has made paleontologists and illustrators historical partners in bringing dinosaurs to life. The exhibition highlights that history by showing how dinosaur art has changed over time as science has progressed."

Portland Public Library will complement the exhibition with dinosaur-themed programs for children, teens, and adults. The adjoining Camden National Bank Community Gallery featured dinosaur artwork created by community members during the library's August 25 Drawing Dinosaurs from the Bones Up program, on display alongside passive art activities offered at the library throughout September.

"This exhibition is a love letter to a form of art that has captured the imaginations of people for generations," says Janice Hastings, PPL's Development Director. "The show also brings public awareness to scientific illustration as an important partner to paleontology."

ILLUSTRASAURUS Experience Tours

School and community groups can explore "Illustrasaurus" through a one-hour experience that combines a guided tour of the exhibition with a hands-on activity. Groups can choose between a dinosaur-themed storytime or a drawing activity. Tours are available for groups of up to 25–30 people on October 16 and 30, November 6 and 20, and December 11 and 18. One tour is available per date, with start times scheduled between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve a tour, email tours@portlib.org.

Dinosaur Fever at PPL

Throughout the run of "Illustrasaurus", PPL will offer dinosaur-themed programs for children, teens, and adults, including several presented in collaboration with Illustration Institute.

Dinosaur Events for Kids

Dinosaur Playdate | October 24 | 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Dinosaur Excavation Expedition | October 28 | 4–5 p.m.
T-Rex Tea Party | November 6 | 4–5 p.m.
Dinosaur Playdate | November 14 | 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Salt Dough Dinosaur Crafts | November 17 | 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Dinosaur Stomp and Craft | December 5 | 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Dinosaur Bath Bombs | December 18 | 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Dinosaur Playdate | December 19 | 11 a.m.–12 p.m.

Dinosaur Event for Teens

Teen Dinosaur Miniature Painting | October 8 | 3–4:30 p.m.

Dinosaur Events for Adults

Exhibition Opening and First Friday Art Walk | October 2 | 5–7 p.m.
Creating Hattie and Hudson | October 15 | 5–7 p.m. | In collaboration with Illustration Institute
First Friday Art Walk | November 6 | 5–7 p.m.
Paleontology: Dead Dinosaurs Rising | November 13 | 5–7 p.m. | In collaboration with Illustration Institute
Exploring the Scientist’s Sketchbook | November 19 | 5:30-7:30pm | In collaboration with Illustration Institute
First Friday Art Walk | December 4 | 5–7 p.m.
Dinosaur Illustrators Panel Discussion | December 10 | 5–7 p.m. | In collaboration with Illustration Institute

All programs take place at Portland Public Library's Downtown Branch unless otherwise noted.

ILLUSTRASAURUS: The Dinosaur Art Show for the Eons is on view October 2 through December 31, 2026, in the Lewis Gallery at Portland Public Library's Downtown Branch. Admission is free.

About Portland Public Library:

Portland Public Library is a welcoming cultural center that brings people together and connects them with trusted resources, ideas, experiences, and information. We build a stronger community by inspiring learning, creativity, and collaboration.

About Illustration Institute:

Illustration Institute's mission is to raise appreciation and awareness of illustration in its many forms. ii seeks to provide people of all ages the opportunity to learn directly from master artists and working professionals through exhibitions and workshops provided at public libraries, museums, schools, and other community venues.