Books Illustrated, a centre for Australian Illustrated Children’s Books in Melbourne, announced today that they have a rare collection of original illustrations from a number of vintage American children’s books available for sale. Gathered over many years by a dedicated collector, this collection includes entire books and also individual works.Books Illustrated Director and Illustrator Ann James says: ‘Our main focus has always been Australian book illustration, but when we were offered this collection we were so excited! Original illustrations created in the 50s and 60s by revered artists for some of the most iconic books of the time. Most of the illustrated books Australian children grew up with in that period were created elsewhere. We are celebrating these books! Golden Books are a direct link to my childhood - the stories and the pictures. It’s so exciting to see Raggedy Ann in the flesh – well, gingham – with her strange button eyes and all that red hair.’
The collection of over 70 original illustrations includes original artwork for Little Golden Book, Raggedy Ann and the Cookie Snatcher, and other classics; Pink Panther and the Fancy Party; Mother Goose; The Popeye Spinach Flip Board Game; Richard Scarry’s Chipmunk ABC; and Trixie Beldon’s Mystery at Bob White Cave.
Books Illustrated will hold an Open House on National Bookshop Day, August 10 2013, 11am to 5pm, providing a unique opportunity to view these illustrations. The Open House will be held at the Book Illustrated Gallery and Showroom, 300 Beaconsfield Parade, Middle Park 3206.
From August 10 to September 10, 2013
Where there is a complete set of illustrations for a book, they will be offered for sale as a unit for one month. After September 10, all illustrations will be available individually.
Expressions of interest for individual illustrations can be registered at any time.
About Books Illustrated
Ann James and Ann Haddon established Books Illustrated in 1988.Together they have curated exhibitions promoting Australian picture books and their creators throughout Australia and internationally including Japan, Italy, Korea and China.
For more information, contact: Ann Haddon, Books Illustrated, Gallery & Showroom (Tel +61 3 9534 7751, email: info@booksillustrated.com.au or visit the Books Illustrated website.
