Exhibitions and events which we think may be of interest to IBIS members.
We welcome suggestions for additions to this list.
Current Exhibitions
Illustrating the Grotesque
Heath Robinson Museum, Pinner
On until 10 December 2023
Acidic, bawdy, grotesque. Heath Robinson’s illustrations for Rabelais explore a dark and dramatic part of his practice, characterised by expressive linework and grim subjects. See them alongside Goya’s Los Caprichos; experimental etchings portraying beasts, scoundrels and a society in ruin.
Max Beerbohm: The Price of Celebrity
New York Public Library
On until 28 January 2024
This exhibition maps Beerbohm’s career in relation to the evolving idea of celebrity. We follow him from his early days in the “Decadent” circles of Oscar Wilde and Aubrey Beardsley through his late career as a radio performer on the BBC during World War II. Drawn from across the Library’s collections, as well as loans from private and institutional collections, Max Beerbohm: The Price of Celebrity includes rare original caricature drawings, manuscripts, photographs, books from Beerbohm’s library, and personal items, most on public display for the first time. Curated by Margaret D. Stetz and Mark Samuels Lasner.
Image © The Estate of Sir Max Beerbohm
John Craxton: A Modern Odyssey
Pallant House, Chichester
28 October 2023 until 21 April 2024
Not an exhibition of book illustration, but Craxton's narrative style may be on interest to members.
Forthcoming Events and Exhibitions
Oxford Fine Press Book Fair
Examinations Schools, Oxford
9 and 10 December 2023
Annual book fair specialising in fine press, arists books, illustrated books, etc. Organised by the Fine Press Book Association.
The Wonderful World of the Ladybird book artists
Victoria Art Gallery, Bath
19 January 2024 to 14 April 2024
A touring exhibition featuring hundreds of vintage Ladybird books and original watercolour illustrations, curated by ladybird book expert Helen Day.
Future venues and dates:
Summer 2024: St Albans Museum, St Albans.
