Amy Teh's Candy-colored Artwork Sets Stage For Centennial Children's Theatre Season

Amy Teh

Local artist and entrepreneur created six original works of art for the Children’s Theatre Season.

Behind the Scenes with Amy Teh

If you have visited the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine this summer, you have undoubtedly been struck by the lobby's whimsical and enchanting theatre banners. These captivating designs are by local artist and entrepreneur Amy Teh. Amy’s creative works of art depict six classic children’s stories that make up CMTM’s Centennial Children’s Theatre Season.

Amy’s unique style adds a candy-colored layer of whimsy to the classic tales we know and love. Amy brings fresh perspectives and vibrant visuals to the Centennial Theatre season with her reinterpretation of Charlotte and Wilbur, Mrs. Mallard, MC Dog, Knufflebunny, Corduroy, and Falkor. These beloved stories come to life in a new way through her artistic vision, creating a whimsical experience for museum visitors of all ages.

During a recent visit to the Museum & Theatre, CMTM caught up with Amy and asked her to share her creative process. Amy shared more about herself and her artwork and offered valuable advice for young artists. Her passion for art and storytelling was evident as she spoke about her inspirations and the joy of bringing characters and narratives to life through her artwork.

Amy’s work in the “Make Way for Ducklings - The Musical” playbill.

Interview with Amy Teh

CMTM: Amy, please tell us a little about yourself and your artwork. 

Amy: I was a graphic designer for many years but felt the need to leave the corporate world. When I began working for myself, I started doing illustration and absolutely fell in love with it.

CMTM: What motivated you to want to create six original designs for the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine's Centennial Children’s Theatre Season?

Amy: It sounded like a lot of fun! Having some direction to go in, like the show titles, actually helped a great deal to narrow down ideas. Sometimes, when you have the freedom to design anything you want, it can be hard to focus.

Amy’s Wilbur & Charlotte on a CMTM postcard from “Charlotte’s Web”.

CMTM: Can you share your creative process and any inspiration/s you had along the way.? 

Amy: Some people may not realize this, but all my work is digital. I primarily use Adobe Illustrator, but recently began using Procreate on the iPad to do some hand lettering.

CMTM: What do you hope people take away from seeing your work this season? 

Amy: I hope my posters will catch people’s eye, draw them in, and make them want to come see a show!

CMTM: What advice or message would you share with young artists?

Amy: Find your voice and make art that you enjoy making.

Amy in her shop, Pinecone+Chickadee.

CMTM: How can people see more of your work? 

Amy: Come on down to our store, Pinecone+Chickadee, at 6 Free Street! I design, and my husband silkscreens most of the t-shirts in the shop.

See Amy’s artwork in CMTM’s Maddy’s Theatre Promotional Materials through Spring 2024. The next show to feature Amy’s illustrations is “Go, Dog. Go!”, playing October 6 - November 5, 2023. Tickets on sale now: https://www.kitetails.org/godoggo

Amy Teh is the owner of Pinecone+Chickadee at 6 Free Street in Portland, Maine.

Theatre, Theatre PostersShultzie WillowsMaddy's Theatre, Visiting Artist Series, Artists