Residents are being invited to take a trip down memory lane and discover the books that defined a generation in a new exhibition at the Victoria Art Gallery.
A selection of the Ladybird books on show | Photo courtesy of B&NES Council
The Wonderful World of the Ladybird Book Artists, running between 19th January and 14th April, will uncover the story of those who illustrated Ladybird books during their heyday, and features hundreds of books and original artworks.
The collection of Ladybird books and artworks will take older visitors back to their childhood with magical fairy tales, inspiring adventures, and informative guides on everything from wildlife to arithmetic.
Charting the story of the Ladybird ‘golden years’, from 1940 to 1975, the exhibition will showcase the enormous role illustrators played in creating the iconic children’s books.
As well as a nostalgic look back at childhood, the exhibition promises a chance for younger visitors to discover the classic books for the first time.
A free ‘I Spy’ exhibition trail will bring Ladybird books to life and a cosy reading corner complete with a ‘Coco the Caravan’ den will offer the chance to curl up with a classic.
‘Toddler Thursdays’ will welcome pre-schoolers and their carers for weekly story-time sessions. Family craft sessions inspired by Ladybird artwork will run throughout February half-term and the Easter school holidays.
Vintage Ladybird books encapsulate much of the history of 20th-century Britain. There were many different reasons for the books’ phenomenal success but, as Ladybird books were essentially picture books, it was in large measure the illustrations that attracted and engaged readers.
The exhibition will explore the artists, models and real locations linked to Ladybird books, and recount the story of a little Loughborough print business that became a giant in children’s publishing.
The exhibition is curated by Ladybird expert and enthusiast Helen Day, who has spent more than 20 years collecting and researching Ladybird books.
Helen said: “I’m so excited to be bringing my colourful, nostalgic exhibition to the beautiful city of Bath.”
Councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic & Cultural Sustainable Development, said: “Many people will have fond memories of learning to read with Ladybird books, and this fantastic exhibition will appeal to them as well as to younger visitors discovering the wonderful world of Ladybird books for the first time.”
Admission is free for local residents with a Discovery Card.
There will be lunchtime exhibition tours at 1.30pm to 2pm every Thursday, suitable for all ages and free with an exhibition ticket.
