Superman writes.. Look/Mirror Exhibition

Superman reviews the ‘Look’ and ‘Mirror’ exhibitions held at the Canberra Museum and Gallery....

Recently I attended the official opening of the ‘Look! – the art of Australian picture books today and ‘Mirror’ by  Jeanne Baker, held at the Canberra Museum.

Murray and Brenda escorted me to the opening, where I was met by the museum staff, and  the Director of the Museum – Shane Breynard.

Dr Belle Alderman (AM), myself and Shane Breynard

I was made very welcomed and introduced to many very important people. Drinks and nibbles complemented the evening and I ate fairy bread and drank apple juice.

The ‘Look’ exhibition showcases the diversity of picture books created by Australian illustrators during the past decade. Accompanying each framed illustration is a brief description along with an interactive activity. Unfortunately not all the framed illustrations are at ‘child-friendly’ heights.

There are four activity tables which can accommodate 1-2 children at a time. A small activity book accompanies the exhibits.

Only one indigenous illustration is displayed.

I love Jeanne Baker’s books and have 2 in my personal collection. I have read/looked/discussed her book ‘Mirror’ with Brenda, so was keen to see this exhibition. I found the layout of it confusing, going from one room to the other to compare the illustrations- I wonder why the framed illustration portraying each country were not displayed alongside one another, at child-friendly height.  This would have allowed for more interaction and discussion between parent/teacher/care giver.

 Instead, we had children running over the raised platforms under the framed illustrations – a constant clatter clatter, echoing between the rooms. No discussion about the wonderful illustrations was heard-a pity as they are beautiful and would provide a wonderful opportunity to engage and encourage visual literacy.