Bunyips and Dragons is an exhibition of Australian children’s book illustrations at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia and it’s sure to captivate anyone who loves kids books.
The collection was donated to the NGV by Albert Ullin OAM, the founder of The Little Bookroom, who formed many relationships with illustrators since he first opened the shop in 1960. The exhibition includes 80 original illustrations from over 6o artists drawn from the past 40 years.
As an adult who reads a lot of children’s books I found the interviews and behind-the-scenes shots with some of the artists very interesting and revealing, possibly more so than the static artworks themselves. I was particularly taken with the idea that the illustrations never just mirror the text but add an extra dimension to the words on the page, a layer of meaning that kids will instantly understand.
The exhibition is best suited to kids 4+ years as the drawing activity with Bob Graham and Leigh Hobbs require some concentration.
There is a well set up reading nook by the windows where you can share some of the books mentioned in the exhibit and watch and listen to audiobooks by Story Box Library.
Curiously, for an exhibition with a strong children’s focus, almost all the artworks are hung at adult height. While I understand you don’t want children touching the works I think the NGV should provide short stools so that kids can at least have the chance to have a better look.
Bunyips and Dragons will delight children and adults alike as they reminisce and discover new children’s picture books together.
HOT tips:
- exhibition is free and takes about 30-60 minutes to visit if you stop to draw, listen to an audiobook and look at the pictures.
- Almost all the art is hung at adult height. Maybe ‘borrow’ a stool from the drawing table until NGV works out that they need to provide something so that kids can see the works.
- During Book Week for the NGV’s regular Under 4s art program author and illustrator Bob Graham will read his latest book How the Sun got to Coco’s House, which will be followed by a quick sketch session. It’s on Wednesday 26 August and is sure to book out so get in quick.
- Head to ArtPlay playground and Federation Square eateries (or if you have no pram, Bowery to Williamsburg across the road) for a half-day adventure.
Bunyips and Dragons, The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Federation Square, Melbourne 03 8620 2222
Saturday 25 July 2015 – Sunday 4 October 2015
Open 10am–5pm daily