As if by magic… Mr Benn, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and Not Now, Bernard appear at the Horniman Museum & Gardens for its latest exhibition aimed at younger visitors under seven – Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee.
The exhibition features characters created by the late author and illustrator spanning 50 years. Original artworks are displayed alongside cosy reading areas and dressing up opportunities. Visitors can step into the colourful world when the exhibition opens at the Horniman on Friday 21 October.
The first stop in the major retrospective is Elmer’s world where visitors can walk through Elmer’s jungle, encountering characters and stories along the way. As well as illustrations from the Elmer series there’s original artwork from David’s other children’s classics Not Now, Bernard and Mr Benn, an original storyboard of King Rollo, as well as the opportunity to visit the fancy dress costume shop featured in Mr Benn.
A dedicated area of the exhibition has been co-produced with Seven Stories’ Young Producers, highlighting its organisational commitment to working collaboratively with children and young people.
“We can’t wait for families to explore this vibrant exhibition at the Horniman Museum and Gardens,” commented Wendy Elliott, ceo at Seven Stories. “Seeing David’s striking artwork close-up on display is very memorable and we know that families, schools and fans of children’s literature are going to be blown away by the whole exhibition.”
Paul Black, PR and brand director at Andersen Press, continued: “We’re very excited to see Elmer and Friends come to London with the Horniman, and for us to have the opportunity to celebrate the work and life of our good friend David McKee with families in the capital.”
Cressida Diez-Finch, exhibition and design manager at the Horniman, added: “We are delighted to welcome young families to the Horniman to enjoy David McKee’s artwork in a fun, vibrant setting. Far more than ‘just’ a Patchwork Elephant, Elmer and his friends gently introduce principles around tolerance, kindness, patience and sustainability, making it a great fit for the Horniman.”
The exhibition runs until Sunday 16 April, 2023.
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