Mission

The Maurice Sendak Foundation promotes the artistic legacy of Maurice Sendak by ensuring his books are in print and readily available in ideal editions, by preserving his home and studio, and by exhibiting his original art. We nurture illustrators and writers in the field of children’s literature, especially supporting excellence in the art of the picture book.

Values

"As a child I felt that books were holy objects, to be caressed, rapturously sniffed, and devotedly provided for. I gave my life to them.”  Maurice Sendak  /  “The Picasso of children’s books” / Time 

Integrity and Excellence

We are devoted to making sure that Maurice Sendak’s books are published to the highest standard and as close to his artistic intentions as possible. In everything Maurice Sendak did, he advocated for integrity and excellence. Continuing this legacy, not only for his own books but for the art of the picture book, is central to the Foundation’s work.

Stewardship

We are responsible stewards of Sendak’s original artwork and related materials since they are essential to the production of his books. The art is also vital for educational programing as well as for promoting his legacy through exhibitions.

Preservation

We will maintain and preserve the house, studio, and grounds. They were an integral part of Maurice Sendak’s creative process. The house is accessible to scholars and artists as a research center and as the location for The Sendak Fellowship and other educational programming.

Mentorship

Teaching and mentoring were a key aspect of Maurice Sendak’s career. He was mentored by legendary editor Ursula Nordstrom and authors Ruth Krauss and Crockett Johnson, and later he went on to mentor many artists as a teacher and through The Sendak Fellowship that he himself founded. We will continue this tradition with the Fellowship and through workshops, exhibitions of his work, and partnerships with other educational and cultural organizations that share the Foundation’s values.

Partnerships

In his lifetime Maurice Sendak advocated for the welfare of children and animals. We partner with institutions that align with these values.

Our Board

• Lynn Caponera, President and Treasurer

• Dona Ann McAdams, Secretary

• Michael di Capua, Member

• Aaron Cohen, Member

• Sergio Ruzzier Member

• Josh Siegel, Member

 Our Legal Counsel

• David Shevlin, Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett, NYC

• Maura Whelan, Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett, NYC

• Carol Kaplan, Loeb & Loeb, NYC (for Theatrical and Entertainment matters)

Our Staff

• Lynn Caponera, Executive Director

• Jonathan Weinberg, Curator & Director of Research

• Leah McCloskey, Director of Operations & Program Manager

• Chloe Giroux, Foundation Assistant

• Doug Salati, Sendak Fellowship Coordinator