Illustrationcupboard

Collecting: Illustration art heads for the big time.

2011-12-05T04:42:00.000-08:00

From the Gruffalo to the Grinch and Winnie the Pooh to the Wild Things: these are the creatures that stalk childhood imaginations. But now grown-ups are taking a keen interest in these literary beasts – and it isn't just nostalgia.Galleries report that original book illustrations are being seen as a good investment as well as something familiar to hang on the walls.Buyers have realised that illustrations by well-known artists are relatively affordable with prices in the low hundreds of pounds. Now demand is pushing up costs, with some illustrators' work trebling in value over the past five years.

The Illustration Cupboard, a London gallery specialising in such works, says turnover has leapt 90 per cent in three years. Its founder John Huddy described it as an "encouraging, exciting time". The gallery recently sold an E H Shepard illustration for a 1931 version of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows for £50,000. Other works by best-selling illustrators – including the Alfie author, Shirley Hughes, and David McKee, who created Mr Benn and Elmer the patchwork elephant – have trebled in value. Luke Heron, director of the art fund StoryBoard Assets, which invests in book illustrations, said that people tend to invest in physical assets at times of economic uncertainty. At some point, he predicts, illustrations will sell for "silly prices".Auction houses are taking note. On Tuesday, Christie's will sell both newer and rare collections, including an illustration for the 1983 edition of Wind in the Willows by Harry Hargreaves, while Sotheby's has more than 20 lots of illustrations later this month, including work by Shepard, Arthur Rackham and Edmund Dulac.

Quentin Blake, renowned for his close collaboration with Roald Dahl, admitted there was more interest in illustration, adding that it was an "everyday language" people had rather taken for granted. He claimed there had been a degree of "intellectual snobbery" in the past, with people sometimes ashamed that illustration was done to commission for money.

Winter Illustration Festival 2011

2011-11-29T03:49:00.000-08:00

Mince Pies and Mayhem: Many thanks to all who came along on Saturday to our 'Winter Illustration Festival'. A packed event was full of excitement as the queue for signing books ran across the top floor down the stairs and to the door. Relaxing classical guitar courtesy of George added a calming element to the family frenzy as mince pies and other seasonal delicies rotated.

Our thanks to Andersen Press for supplying us with Elmer goodies to entertain in the children's corner which was a huge success! The colouring in Elmers have certainly re-assured us that there are plenty of budding illustrators to come.Congratulations to Bethan from Cambridge too, who was the lucky winner of our raffle for Amnesty International, and gets a publisher's signed proof of a page from Shirley Hughes's 'Christmas Eve Ghost'. Can't wait for next year ...

Happy Birthday to Robert Ingpen!

2011-10-14T03:41:00.001-07:00

Happy 75th Birthday to Robert Ingpen.

Congratulations to Robert Ingpen on reaching a milestone birthday, and all of us here at the gallery would like to be amongst the first to wish him another very happy 75 years. A native Australian Robert has become one of the world's most respected living book illustrators, and it has been a delight, pleasure and honour to work with him these years exhibiting his truly breathtaking artwork here in London.

Favourites of ours include the Jungle Book, Peter Pan as well as the wonderful Christmas Carol which was the focus of a single artist exhibition in the autumn of 2009. An illustrator not only loved by his public but greatly revered by his peers, Robert is one of those artists who has championed the skill, talent and exquisite technical ability of classical drawing to bring the Fine Art of of illustration in to the 21st century healthy, robust and strong. The amber nectar awaits!

2011-09-26T02:57:00.000-07:00

Update:Edward Ardizzone - Huckleberry Finn.
Following the success of our spring exhibition of the superb illustrations by Edward Ardizzone for the 1961 publication of Huckleberry Finn, we are delighted to announce the successful purchase of this collection by a leading US collector.

The suite of pristine black ink drawings, which had resided in the study of former chairman of Heinemann Educational publisher Tony Beal, had recently resurfaced and was offered by his family in the hope of keeping this superb suite of drawings together. After careful negotiation the entire collection as been saved for posterity by a leading US collector whose passion is nineteenth century American literature, of which Mark Twain is of core interest. Although a private collection it is closely associated with Cornell University and much of the work in it is available for study and presentation. Not only will the artwork be cared for in the appropriate manner but will be made accessible to all those intersted in Mark Twain and the artwork of the superb British artist. We are delighted at Illustrationcupboard have been instrumental in this negotiation and in finding a first class home for such a rarity of British illustration artwork and publishing history.

Congratulations Julia Donaldson

2011-07-04T06:11:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Julia Donaldson who has inherited the title of Children's Laureate from Anthony Browne and taken on the mantle of this prestigious accolade. In his farewell speech Tony Browne gave an engaging account of his time, and the many events and travels that he undertook during his two years. We are sad to see him relinquish the title, but have much enjoyed adding our own contribution to his laureateship with events, book launches and exhibitions here at the gallery.

We look forward to the next two years with the effervescent Julia Donaldson, who will bring an equal share of enthusiasm, energy and committment to her stewardship. It is excellent news that we have two laureates in a row that are so closely connected to picture books and we wish Julia every success in the time ahead.

Edward Ardizzone - Huckleberry Finn and other work

2011-05-14T06:16:00.000-07:00

It is with great pleasure that we present our Spring exhibition featuring the work of the great artist and illustrator Edward Ardizzone.

In a somewhat unique exhibition we show the entire suite of drawing for Huckleberry Finn by Tom Sawyer, published by Heinemann Educational Books in 1961. These classic black ink drawings show Ardizzone working at his est, and the entire suite represents a formidable collection and a rare opportunity for any serious collector or institution to acquire.

Read more bout the amazing story behind this collection in The Guardian at www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/may/12/edward-ardizzone-illustrations-huckleberry-finn

Booktrust Ten Best New Illustrators Award

2011-03-24T03:42:00.001-07:00

We were delighted to host a reception for the Booktrust Ten Best New Illustrators Award which was announced on Tuesday evening, and offer a hearty congratulations to the winners.

There was a packed house of the great and the good from the publishing world here at the gallery to witness the announcement, and applaud as awards were distributed to the winners. Anthony Browne, current Children's Laureate, spoke inspiringly about the good work that Booktrust performs for the promotion of reading and literature, and Lauren Child followed up by congratulating the winners and reminding us all that this final selection by no means excluded the hundred or so other writers and artists who had entered this competition and that in this game there are no losers.

The party ran late in to the evening with lavish hospitality from Booktrust adding to the warmth of a lovely sunny spring night as guests spilled out on to the street in a carnival-like atmosphere of celebration. Further details can be found on Booktrust website as follows: www.booktrust.org.uk

Toucan and Friends - Romi Behrens

2011-02-25T04:26:00.000-08:00

The first quarter of the year is always an interesting time for us here at the gallery as we move from the old and in to the new. As well as our annual spring cleaning, it is a time to host different events, exhibitions and show work of a different nature. As such we are delighted to present the oils paintings by Romi Behrens.

Inspired by her native coastal Cornwall Romi has for five decades been at the heart of the contemporary Cornish school. Inspired by the traditions of Park, Wood, the Nicholsons, Hilton, Lanyon and a close friend of the late Patrick Heron Romi's work reflects the depth and warmth of this rich British cultural heritage. Basing this suite of paintings around an antique South American totem that has been a lucky charm in her studio for many years these pictures have all the colour and brightness welcome during the final days of winter.

Best known for her portraits the collection also includes a number of smaller sketches for which she is so well known and for which she was recently the subject of a single artist retrospective at the Royal Cornwall Museum. Selected by Country Life magazine as one of the exhibitions to see this month we are anticipating the blast of the horn and the cry of the hunt to resound along Bury St. at any time ...

Shaun Tan at The Oscars

2011-02-22T04:44:00.000-08:00

The 83rd Annual Academy Awards ceremony approaches and a hearty congratulations to Shaun Tan who with Andrew Ruhemann has been nominated for Best Short Film (Animated) for The Lost Thing.

As well as being one of the most charming people to have crossed the threshold of the gallery Shaun is also an exciting and innovative artistic talent, whose careers moves from strength to strength. With a truly international following this nomination for an Oscar is a testament to his artistic vision and we will be supporting wholeheartedly on Sunday night for victory.
We are delighted that Shaun will be back with us at the gallery this August and look forward to hosting an event and exhibition of his work and the new book, The Bird King, published by Templar this April. Shaun will be at the gallery to sign books, the date is to be confirmed. Watch this space.

Shaun is pictured here, at his previous event at Illustrationcupboard, chatting with Shirley Hughes.

Falmouth Illustration Retrospective

2011-02-21T09:04:00.000-08:00

The beginning of the new year always sees us hosting a guest exhibition here at the gallery, and this February was no exception. Welcoming Falmouth Illustration we were delighted to host the alumni of this esteemed and greatly respected degree course. Curated by Alan Male, resident professor of illustration, the exhibition hosted an array of past BA students, all now leading fruitful and successful careers within this field. A buzzing evening reception saw old friends and new reunited, and highlighted above all the the enduring success and popularity of this degree course which has set on the road many bright and sharp-eyed talents. We wish Alan and his colleagues further victories at Falmouth and look forward to another visit from them in the near future.

Escaping to Wonderland

2010-09-21T02:48:00.000-07:00

Escape to Wonderland at The Lightbox:

As we wave farewell to the sleepy days of summer, we usher in an exciting new term with fresh events and exhibitions. To complement the Indian Summer congratulations are due to The Lightbox, a leading regional public art gallery that has recently opened its extensive, comprehensive and thoroughly enjoyable exhibition of the history of picture book illustration.

Embracing work from the great names of the nineteenth century to many of our modern and contemporary classic books it includes many of our very own Illustrationcupboard artists, and offers a definite overview of the achievements to be found in this field of artistic and literary accomplishment. Director Marilyn Scott and her team have pulled together a broad range of original artwork appealling to both collectors as well as families in general. There is also an extensive range of workshops, illustrators' lectures, book signings and other events for which tickets are going fast! Entrance to the exhibition is free, and lunch at the excellent gallery cafe to be heartily recommended. For more details visit the website at www.thelightbox.org.uk and escape off to Wonderland ...

A Radio 4 Sunday Drama

2010-05-27T04:00:00.000-07:00

A sunny Sunday afternoon was the perfect time, as I purred along the slow lane of the M4, to sink in to the lulling dramatisation of Paul Gallico's The Snow Goose on Radio 4. Congratulations to Michael Morpurgo for bringing this to our attention and for BBC on their gripping dramatisation. Was it a misty eye that caused me to blink, or just the wipers on my antiquated motorcar? Either way this heart-rending tale of love and heroism rescued motoroway from monotony.

As the story unfurled I pictured in my mind's eye Angela Barrett's wonderful illustrations on the wall's of our gallery, which added much to my enjoyment. The ensuing Open Book discussion and interviews which followed were lively with comment and anedotes from Mariella Frostrup, Michae Morpurgo and Elizabeth Jane Howard. Still to be found on BBC iplayer, I recommend an evening with the wireless by the fireside.

Now the dust has settled ...

2010-04-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

Oddly enough there are parallels to be drawn between the recent eruption of Eyjafjallajokull in Iceland and the reception here for Brian Wildsmith, who reached the venerable age of 80 this year. Besides the outpouring of good wishes from a record crowd of attendees for Brian and his paintings, on show in Britain for the very first time, the guests were buoyed up by a pyroclastic flow of bubbly and erupted into a rousing chorus of Happy Birthday both in and outside the gallery bringing to a halt pedestrian travel on Bury St. Brian's ensuing heartfelt words gave testament to his fifty years with Oxford University Press whom he described as like family.

Subsequently marooned for some days on the rougher side of St James's he eventually forwent his flight back to the Mediterranean and sprang aboard the Eurostar to resume his self-styled 'hermetic life' in the south. We are sorry to see him go. His Yorkshire charm and good humour enchanted so many, as have his colourfully resonant paintings. We raise a glass and wish him a swift bon retour, less so his Nordic counterpart.

The devil makes work ...

2010-02-24T05:53:00.000-08:00

In the words of the much-loved Mole,' Hang spring-cleaning'. In a move that can only be described as from the sublime to the ridiculous the wintry day of February were brushed aside in a fit of new-year enthusiasm for some predictive refurbishment. With renewed zeal I donned the ear muffs and mask, and roared in to action with an antiquated sanding machine more akin to my grandfather's petrol-fired lawn mower in an attempt to revitalise the elegant but tired parquet floor. Apart from nearly killing the patron it almost proved to be the sonic decimation of St James's, and after two days of what was later described a 'barking' enthusiasm I was gently persuaded to hand over to someone who knew what they were doing. The gallery is now re-sanded to perfection and re-painted to precision and awaits the many visitors we hope will attend our exciting array of exhibits and events in 2010. Earmuffs are entirely optional.

Cambridge School of Art Degree Show 2010

2010-02-24T05:36:00.000-08:00

Cambridge School of Art MA Degree Show:

The Illustration Cupboard was delighted once again to host the impressive annual Master of Arts degree show for the students from Anglia Ruskin. This leading course headed by Martin Salisbury attracts applicants worldwide. This year's list was no less impressive with students from the far east, South America and all over Europe showing their degree portfolios at this hugely fascinating exhibition of new work. Thirty graduating MA students exhibited, and a buzzing evening reception was attended by the great and the good of British publishing. Our hearty congratulations to Nadia Shireen (work shown here) who had offers from a number of leading houses and has accepted a two book deal with Jonathan Cape. Watch this space ... you saw it here first!

14th Annual Winter Exhibition

2009-12-01T05:19:00.000-08:00

Once again a busy year rotates full circle to our largest and most exciting time of the year. The winter exhibition is the most extensive collection of contemporary book illustration artwork in the world, and is always a highlight for so many of our loyal visitors.

This year's 14th such show kicked off to no less excitement than usual. A host of artists, collectors, publishers and well-wishers joined us to celebrate, and as the refreshing bubbles were quaffed amidst the excited chatter of old friends re-united a host of new pictures were celebrated. The best collection to date we are proud to show this work here in central London, all of which is featured our new catalogue for 2010 available at the gallery, and also previewed on our website at www.illustrationcupboard.com. The collection includes terrific new work by many of the world's finest illustrators, and we are also delighted to include for the first time graphic novel artwork and an ever increasing range of film animation artwork.

With a broad range of signed first edition books, special silk screens and original artwork on show there is truly something for everybody in this colourful and engaging collection. All signed books are sold at cover price, and original artwork starts at £150. Well worth a festive visit should you be visiting the bright lights of central London, and a warm welcome waits all during the yuletide season. For those tucked up with the dog next to a warm fire-side at home everything can be acquired via our website online purchasing facility and swift delivery service.

Above: Christopher Wormell with a keen collector admires the rare signed pictures of Where The Wild Things Are during our opening reception.

Tales of New York Times

2009-11-10T03:50:00.000-08:00

It is always good news to hear of artists we work with scaling ever-increasing and dizzy heights of success, as such it was exciting to see that one of our favourites - Shaun Tan and his excellent Tales from Outer Suburbia has been nominated as one of this year's best illustrated books by The New York Times. This book and Shaun's artwork has caught the eye of many visitors to the gallery over recent months, both by those who are ardent devotees of his work but also those new to illustration.

Copies of this book are available here at the gallery, (£10.99) and we will be showing further work connected to this book at our 14th Annual Winter Exhibition which opens shortly on the 19th November. Artwork is availabe from £295 upwards.

http://www.nytimes.com/gift-guide/holiday-2009/20091108_best-illustrated_gg/list.html?ref=books

Drink and the Devil

2009-10-30T01:58:00.000-07:00

Come and have a yarn with John. Although the words of the much-loved anti-hero and all-round ne'er-do-well Long John Silver the impressive turnout of family, friends and collectors on Tuesday night all boarded ship here on Bury St. to do exactly that. Not that we were huddle around the apple barrel. The amassed crew gently imbibed refreshing rum punch whilst Squire Lawrence heartily signed books and greeted old friends in a congenial atmosphere far from piratical. The shattering of a wine goblet may have heralded the onset of mutinous revolt however the fortuitous discovery of another crate of grog below decks swiftly allayed any such erstwhile activity, and order was restored without recourse to the local magistrate.

Described by one as the definite version of Treasure Island, John Lawrence's masterful handling of this great classic of British literature is none the less impressive than Stevenson's rollicking adventure yarn. John's work, as always, shows profound understanding of subject, a keen perception of spirit and masterful technical ability. The bloody and ultimately fatal struggle between the unremittingly evil Israel Hands and the Irishman in a brutal moment of piratical infighting is displayed in superb style. The struggling combatants, framed by the doorway of the cabin, lurch one way across the deck whilst the Hispaniola sways precariously to the other. In a scene of desperation, volatility and ferocity there is little mistake to be made from John's vivid depiction that this is no mere inebriated disagreement, but uncompromising and ghastly conflict to the death. The spirit of these illustrations is gripping and heartily evoke the spirit of this fabled bygone age. Much appreciated by all, the gallery was looted of these beautifully produced books, and we now dig in earnest for more. For the true bounty hunter this rich booty can be acquired for a mere scattering of doubloons. No map required.

"That went as well as could be expected, didn't it?"

2009-10-02T06:10:00.000-07:00

For two decades the iconic heroes Wallace and Gromit have been chasing diamond thieves, wrestling sheep rustlers, hunting lycanthropes and foiling 'cereal' killers. It was time for a party.

As so it was a great pleasure to host Nick Park last Tuesday evening here on Bury St., at a celebration for twenty years of Wallace and Gromit. A packed and enthusiastic crowd filled both floors of the gallery as Nick chatted easily to film makers, collectors and children alike as the plates of Wensleydale rotated through the crowd.

Our thanks to this charming, fascinating and busy gent who so patiently sat and signed copies of the new book The Art of Wallace and Gromit (Egmont) and available at the gallery £20. The 20 year celebratory exhibition of Nick's artwork will run throughout October and features original watercolours, working storyboards, figurines as well a special edition silk screen print signed and numbered by the artist. A must-see for all Wallace and Gromit fans and ideal for a family visit, a journey to this event can only be described as truly a grand day out.

Above; Nick Park signs his new book.

Salve et Vale!

2009-09-09T05:56:00.000-07:00

Time flows like the river, and the ever-constant cycle of the seasons brings with it the winds of change to the parks and gardens around the city as well as to life at Bury St. Regretfully releasing Mara Ferreri from her tasks here at the gallery we wish her well and every success with her forthcoming PhD. which commences this autumn. Many of you who have visited our events and exhibitions will have been greeted by this charming Milanesa who has been of great support and inspiration throughout her time here. We were all sad to see her leave. Stepping in to this challenging role we welcome Beau Brady who has come to us from Hauser and Wirth after studying at The Courtauld Institute. Beau has already thrown herself in to 'Cupboard' life and is busily working away on the exciting preparations for our busy autumn and winter seasons ahead with events including celebrations with Nick Park for 20 years of Wallace and Gromit, John Lawrence and his new Treasure Island and the 14th Annual Winter Exhibition which opens in November. With an air of a new term commencing we look forward to the months ahead and seeing many of you again in the near future.

Congratulations to Anthony Browne

2009-06-18T05:43:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Anthony Browne who has become the latest Children's Laureate. Anthony Browne is one of the greatest and surely best-loved illustrators of the modern era, whose books are known throughout the world and whose artwork hugely admired.

I have been very fortunate to have known him through a family connection with publishing since I was a child, and first recall meeting him sipping tea around our kitchen table at home in what I then considered to be a distinctly gorilla-like fashion.

Since starting ‘the cupboard’ in ‘95 he has always been an enthusiastic supporter and I am delighted to have worked with Anthony for over a decade representing him with his original artwork at our events and exhibitions. We all wish him every success in the task ahead, and confident that his informative discussion and all-encompassing charm will herald a successful and rewarding stewardship of this post.

Shaun Tan in London

2009-06-03T02:42:00.000-07:00

With the advent of The Ashes test cricket series only weeks away Australians are very much in the field of play this summer. As befitting this forthcoming sporting event we were excited by the prospect of the book-launch and evening reception for Shaun Tan. This rapidly rising star is proving to be a veritable Dennis Lilee of the book illustration world and as such is taking the globe by storm.

Having just completed his run-up with a tour of the US, Shaun arrived at the crease hot-foot from a sun-soaked Hay Festival book signing and was no less mobbed at our evening reception. Courtesy of Hodder Children’s Books and Templar Publishing the chilled drinks circulated and the crowd spilled out on to Bury St. in a carnival atmosphere. With perfect delivery Shaun spoke a few well-chosen words to the hushed and expectant crowd, and backed-up well in exemplary fashion fielding a lengthy queue of visitors keen to spend a few moments with this talented and engaging artist.

Although the over came all too soon, and now basking back in the pavilion of a Western Australian winter we have continued by turning a brief match into an ongoing series - Shaun kindly produced four original pastels for us (£1250) based on his published books, as well as producing a selection of fine limited giclée editions (£295) which are hanging in the main gallery here at Bury St. until 21 June. These can be viewed or purchased directly from our website at www.illustrationcupboard.com. Signed first editions of the latest book Tales from Outer Suburbia are also available for £12.99. Without having to labour a silly point these represent a terrific bargain.

(Above: Shaun Tan chats with Shirley Hughes at the reception photo courtesy of Mara Ferreri)

Summers' arrived.

2009-05-21T03:09:00.000-07:00

Linda Summers: It was with much pleasure that I attended a select and enjoyable evening reception last night celebrating Linda Summers' retirement from Random House Children's Books. I have known Linda for a large percentage of my life and she has been a loyal, trusted and terrific family friend throughout these many years. There is little that can be added to the words spoken by Julia MacRae and Philippa Dickinson save to say that there a handful of people without whom the IC would not be basking on sunny Bury St today; Linda is one of them. On more than one occasion I have bribed her with dreadful cooking and embarrassingly lukewarm chardonnay to sit around my kitchen table and stuff thousands of envelopes, not what one would normally ask of one of the most respected associate publishers in the industry. Thank you Linda. Needless to say there was an impressive turnout of friends, colleagues, artists and writers and I enjoyed catching up with those I know and meeting those I didn't. In the erudite publishing atmosphere I considerably improved my sketchy grasp of English grammar and am now relishing my new editorial knowledge of ellipses . Manzanilla is served at 11am ...

March hares and tea-parties - our review of the Budget.

2009-04-25T04:55:00.000-07:00

As we know only too well for fiscal calendars April is the end of one year and the start of the next and as such it is the time for the government's annual budget announcement. No surprise then that it is a time associated with mad March hares and April fools. Little seems to have altered this year amidst the global economic meltdown save a remarkable co-incidence with our own schedule at the gallery.

I couldn't help but notice as I passed by the newsstand outside the Ritz a witty post-budget tabloid headline which read Alistair in Wonderland. This made me chuckle as I opened the doors on our own exhibition of artwork for the newly published version of the book to which this alludes. In stark contrast to the fanciful machination of the chancellor, JohnVernon Lord's artwork for this exquisite publication by Artists' Choice Editions is a masterpiece.

Top of his game and deservedly regarded as one of the great illustrators of our generation John's illustrations are truly worth the journey to visit to this exhibition. The elegance of the line drawing is almost musical, and the sophistication of interpretation of such a popular book can only be regarded as unrivalled. Of particular interest is the textual blue highlight of Alice's speech throughout the story, and coupled with the somewhat unusual feature that Alice does not appear until the final page-spread all contribute to this being a throroughly original chapter in the canon of Alices. It goes without saying that we have had a stream of enthused visitors pouring through the gallery doors since our tea-party on the 21st. Perhaps Mr Darling should heed some advice and not try to paint white roses red, or it may be off with his head.

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, published by Artists' Choice Editions:
Sold exclusively through The Illustration Cupboard these beautifully crafted books are limited to 280 copies at £68, or the lavishly produced slip-case editions with leather bindings (60 copies only) at £260. These latter rarities feature the endpapers on the casing and include two of John's limited edition engravings of which one is beautifully hand-coloured. All the books are signed and numbered by the artist and would make an ideal special gift or welcome addition to any serious collection.

Cards on the table

2009-03-28T07:55:00.000-07:00

McKee Oils

Along with the first rays of spring David McKee's exhibition of landscapes still-lifes and portraits brought the warmth of southern french colour bursting in to Bury St. The skill and ability of David's oil painting is astonishing and has received great favour from a swathe of intrigued visitors, no less than the great colourist herself Bridget Riley who reportedly came by.

Has this focus on fine art prevented David from writing and illustrating his best-selling books? Publisher Klaus Flugge may think so, and is pictured here quietly throttle his leading writer as he signs copies of Elmer.... time to get back to the books maybe!

A Noisy Event

2009-03-28T07:24:00.000-07:00

A great pleasure to launch our new year festivities with a noisy start for the launch of the new book written by Sue Eves, The Quiet Woman and the Noisy Dog. Far from barking up the wrong tree the gallery was packed with supporters, enthusiasts and even pet dogs. We wish Sue every success with the new book and in eager anticipation of her next best seller for Andersen Press we can but paws for breath.

The Great Blizzard of ' 09

2009-02-02T08:12:00.001-08:00

It is not often that I allow myself the luxury of walking to the gallery on a Monday morning, and less common to find myself shin-deep amongst fresh powder snow in St James's Park. However these are strange days and rare times which future generations will reverently refer to as the' the great blizzard of '09'.

With the inspiration of the great Captain Oates in mind, I was indeed 'sometime' in arriving at my destination. It was nonetheless a very pleasant journey witnessed by a fine array of recently constructed snowmen adorning the snow-cloaked avenues of Hyde Park. I was however slightly disconcerted to be overtaken on no less than two occasions, once by a downhill skier sporting a fine pair of carving skis crossing the cricket pitch in Holland Park, and latterly by a snowboarder who narrowly missed me as I passed by Buckingham Palace.

A somewhat unusual morning.

2009-01-28T02:23:00.000-08:00

Tony Hart

It is with great sadness that I read, along with many others of my generation, of the passing of Tony Hart. To many of us growing up in the the 1970's Vision On was more than entertainment, it was inspiration which fired a terrific enthusiam to get up and paint. Who will forget the wonderfully evocative title music to the show?! I recall an old friend of mine was emminetly proud, even as an adult, of her painting having been displayed on The Gallery section of this programme.

Here at Bury St the response we have had to our Morph giclee edition over recent months has been clear testament to the strong, happy and reverant memory of this unique programme and the gently humorous man who inspired and entertained us so well. Nothing has ever matched it and the world is a poorer place for this loss.

Vodka with Gennady

2008-12-05T03:36:00.000-08:00

The fall in New England is, with good reason, regarded as one of the great natural sights, and sure enough I was not disappointed when I was fortuante enough to witness first-hand the the iridescent foliage at the peaceful dwelling of Gennady Spirin. Delighted to be invited once again for tea to the home of this awe-inspiring artist I headed by train out to the New Jersey countryside to be welcomed with black tea and several hearty Hа здоровье!

Feeling slightly light-headed a most pleasant afternon was spent surveying Gennady's stunning artwork which is featured in our current Winter Exhibition at the gallery here in London. The Night Before Christmas and Jack and the Beanstalk show the sheer vituosity of this classically trained Russian and are worthy of a trip to see these alone. I recall the words of top illustrator Michael Foreman as we studied this artwork on the gallery walls at the opening night. 'Proper stuff that' he muttered. With or without vodka, I can little more than concur. (Photo courtesy of Tatiana Popova)

Exploding Brian

2008-11-04T09:10:00.000-08:00

Just in case many of you (myself included) were wondering what the BBC license fee was for I have some good news. Casting my mind back to the start of our busy calendar schedule for 2008 we began this year with our single artist showcase and first exhibition in the UK ever for Brian Wildsmith. The reception was terrific. We still have visitors coming by to acquire the highly colourful editions of Noah's Ark and St Francis.

During that event a sleek car with darkened windows pulled up outside the gallery and whisked this eminent illustrator off to some unknown subterranean destination for interrogation. Heroically Brian survived this experience the product of which can be view on BBC 4 tomorrow night November 5th at 9pm. Entitled When We Were Very Young, this is the first of three programmes exploring book illustration and will continue on the two following Wednesdays 12 and 19th November. Knowing Brian's eloquence and experience these are sure to be programmes not to be missed. Instead of exploding Guy Fawkes Night rockets, why not stay in and experience some exploding colour in the warmth of your own home.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcfour/listings/programme.shtml?day=wednesday&filename=20081105/20081106_0010_4544_40999_60&service_id=4544

A fragment of an underdone potato

2008-10-21T04:37:00.000-07:00

There’s more of gravy than there’s grave about you

Ebenezer Scrooge is one of the most iconic fictional characters, so much so that his name not only evokes the spectre of miserly self-interest but has effectively fallen in to the canon of common parlance as an utterance of denigration. For this we love him.

I recall well a scratchy crackling record that we would play as children on my parent’s gramophone (literally) every festive season. Hearing this atmospheric recording is one of my earliest memories and has given me a life-time attachment to this old humbug and his ghoulish tale of morality and destiny. As such Robert Ingpen’s freshly-released artwork for the new publication has superbly tapped into the essence of this story. His page and double page spreads are a fantastic evocation of a Dickensian world through which glide Scrooge and the spirits of Christmas past, present and future.

These pictures display Robert’s enduring interest in things scientific and architectural . He is in his element. The watercolours display a virtuoso handling of architectural and perspectival drawing, and coupled with the impressively detailed research into our nineteenth century metropolis, its architecture and fashion we are presented with an unrivalled almost theatrical presentation of Victorian London. As with all great illustrators there is more. With his imagination Robert has infused an eerie other-world quality which gives the artwork such vibrancy. It is immediately engaging and draws the viewer into silent contemplation of this by-gone era. The spectral luminosity of the unfortunate Jacob Marley is all too real. If Munch’s Scream is an evocation of existence then Ingpen’s seated Marley is its opposite. The seemingly quivering figure is a horrific vision of a ghastly unresolved fate, reminiscent of Bacon’s Screaming Pope currently on view at Tate Britain.

But there is humour too. ‘I fear you more than any spectre’ moans Scrooge in the presence of the ghost of things to come. Yet when confronted by his own cold and lonely death we see Scrooge cringing from behind the ghoul, peeking around like a child as the pale light illuminates the increasingly inevitable amongst the gathering gloom. This is one of my own favourites for sure.

In almost fifteen years of The Illustration Cupboard this is surely one of the best books I have had the pleasure to work with and exhibit. It has been enormous fun for us all here at the gallery. The artwork does not disappoint and I warmly invite and encourage any and many to visit. See for yourself or share this with those who, like me, will gain and enjoy a lifelong friendship with this loveable curmudgeon - the wonderful Ebenezer Scrooge.

Lord of all he surveys

2008-10-15T03:48:00.000-07:00

I was much looking forward to Tuesday morning with a visit by the masterful John Vernon Lord and the prospect of seeing the original artwork for his new version of Alice in Wonderland to be published by Dennis Hall in January. The excellent recent article in Illustration magazine gives us a tempting and fascintating insight into John's work, and this further opportunity was manna from heaven.

John's original work is superlative. We spent a happy morning turning the pages of his portfolio viewing this extrordinarily imaginative and detailed drawings. As a further bonus John had also bought along his sketchbooks and pouring over these revealed fascinating view into the, dare I say, brilliantly eccentric creativity of this truly great artist.

We are wildly excited as we will be working with John on exhibiting his work for the very first time in the new year and showing this unique work from Alice.

Apart from anything it sounds like a great excuse for a tea-party.

Rays of sunshine

2008-10-14T10:37:00.000-07:00

To sit on the shores of Capri with the ever-lovely Jane Ray is surely more than any mortal can dream of.

Sitting beside my desk passing books across whilst Jane signed them can only be regarded as a close second. Taking time out of her busy working schedule it was a pleasure to catch up with Jane as she signed, amongst others, our copies of the king of the aforesaid island.

Furthermore we discussed future plans and laid some ground-work for some interesting projects in the new year. A happy ending for sure.

Caper to Cutter

2008-10-10T04:35:00.000-07:00

From Paper Caper to Paper Cutter - the work of Jan Pieńkowski is some of the most inspired. It is one of the pleasures at the cupboard to be fortunate enough to visit such leading artists in their natural habitat - the studio. As such I recently found myself once again in the airy top floor of Jan's house idly surveying the fascinating array of images and drawings which abound. The overwhelming sense of calm creativity is a tonic for the soul, and after chatting in the kitchen to the cello accompanist who had arrived for the morning musical ensemble we thrashed out, over mugs of tea, plans to exhibit stunning new paper cut out silhouettes taken from his exquisite new book The Nutcracker. A highlight of the forthcoming winter exhibition these pictures have never been assembled before and will offer fans of Jan's work a truly unique opportunity. Jan will be signing his new book at the gallery on November 22 at 2.30pm.

A ball for Cinderella

2008-10-03T04:43:00.000-07:00

There were to be no pumpkins at midnight with the glittering evening reception of Niamh Sharkey's exhibition for her new book Cinderella.

A livley evening was had by all with a tremendous turnout of well-wishers, fans, supporters, family and publishers. Author Max Eilenberg was in attendance, and publisher David Lloyd of Walker Books said a few well-spoken words in praise of this talented illustrator which echoed the thoughts of everyone present.

Last seen heading for a buzzing Mayfair cocktail venue with family and friends we look forward to Niamh's return to the gallery on Saturday for her workshop and book signing. Needless to say she left her slipper on the stairs ...

Biscuits with Bruce

2008-09-26T04:35:00.000-07:00

Tea time is always an important part of the day here and Wednesday afternoon was especially enjoyable with a surprise visit by Bruce Ingman who arrived in perfect time, fold up bicycle in hand, as the kettle whistled into life.

We find hobnobs of great inspiration, and whilst partaking as such we enjoyed hearing Bruce's lively anecdotes of working with the great Allan Ahlberg on their terrifc new book Pencil. Being no such things as a free tea we swiftly put Bruce to work signing copies of this excellent new publication for our bookshelves here at the gallery. The icing on the cake was Bruce's kind offer to enter some of this superb original artwork in our forthcoming winter show in November! Clearly this calls for the chocolate-covered digestives.

Nuffin-like-a-Puffin

2008-09-23T06:21:00.000-07:00

Nuffin Like a Puffin.

Three cheers to The Book People and their re-launch of Puffin Post!

This iconic magazine and the equally enthralling Puffin Club was an exciting feature of my early childhood and I remember the zest and enthusiasm with which their events were regularly held. Nicolette Jones in researching her recent article for the Daily Telegraph kindly informed me that I myself had by a Puffineer prizewinner in younger days.

Last night's reception was inspired, and the re-launch of this worthy magazine at swish Kensington Roof Gardens had all the buzz and pazazz I remembered. Superbly supported, it was great to see a host of top names including Shirley Hughes, Jan Pienkowski and Claudio Munoz in attendance with rising stars like Emily Gravett alongside their generous contributions to the blind auction of artwork. We wish Puffin Post every success!

https://www.puffinpost.co.uk/

Who do they think they are?

2008-09-22T01:56:00.000-07:00

What do you like?

Congratulations to the House of Illustration with their new exhibition entitled What Are You Like? at the Dulwich Picture Gallery. Inspired by a victorian parlour game many of the best-known illustrators and some interesting celebrities have drawn images expressing themselves and their favourite things. I particularly enjoyed Brunce Ingman's colourful representation and was intrigued to see Eric Clapton's graphic artistic talent.

Hosted by the superbly elegant Dulwich Picture Gallery I would heartily recommend a visit to this fascinating show. How refreshing to see our leading illustrators sitting cheek-by-jowl alongside many of the most stunning old masters of the past five hundred years!

A great paper caper

2008-09-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

What a Caper! Oliver Jeffers is clearly a man of some clout. After weeks of sunless skies the unexpected arrival of Oliver through the gallery doors was accompanied by a burst of sunshine across the streets of St James's.

In a flying visit to see family and friends Oliver kindly sat and signed 50 copies of his excellent new book The Great Paper Caper for our bookshelves here, and over chocolated cappucino we enjoyed a rare quiet moment to catch up and make plans. We look forward to his return in December from his new-found home in NYC. We had a nice day.