Imagine the wonder of picture books

What's better than a visit to the State Library of NSW? A visit to the State Library with your super-talented writing buddy Sharon Dalgleish to see the inspirational exhibition Imagine the wonder of picture books. 
The exhibition didn't disappoint. From May Gibbs to Bronwyn Bancroft to Tohby Riddle and Bruce Whatley and many, many, many more, this was the ultimate excursion for a kid-lit tragic like me. 
My personal highlights included seeing the intricate detail in an original collage from Jeannie Baker's Circle, May Gibbs' inspiration for her illustrations and 'scribbles' from many artists ranging from original story-boards to experiments with colour palettes. Even the video of picture book creators was professional, engaging and thought-provoking.
It really made me reflect on the magic of picture books, and how the sum of its parts are more than just pictures and words put together. I am so excited to be writing words that one day might be matched with an illustrator to create a magic that I can't imagine.
If you're interested in going, you don't have long. The exhibition closes on 9 July.
Here is some info to whet your appetite: www.sl.nsw.gov.au/exhibitions/imagine-the-wonder-picture-books
And if you can't get there, make sure you listen to the masters share their stories.