Snugglepot and Cuddlepie Come to Wollongong

Catch up with the gumnut babies this winter when the State Library of NSW’s travelling May Gibbs exhibition comes to town.

Loved by generations of readers, May Gibbs’ timeless characters including Snugglepot and Cuddlepie, Ragged Blossom and Little Obelia will form part of the exhibition showcasing her iconic artwork.

The display explores Gibbs’ early work, her influences and inspirations and the working process she followed throughout her career. It also has examples of how World War 1 influenced her work.

“I’m excited to have this exhibition coming to Central Library,’’ said Wollongong City Council’s Manager Library and Community Services Jenny Thompson.

“I, like many people, grew up with the adventures of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and these books hold a special place in my heart. I’m looking forward to seeing Gibbs’ artwork up close and having the opportunity to learn more about her as an individual and artist.’’

It’s more than 100 years since May Gibbs’ published the first of her bush babies books. The first of the books, released just before Christmas 1916, went on to be a runaway success. In 2016 the State Library of NSW held an exhibition in Sydney to mark the centenary and this travelling exhibition is drawn from that display.

“May Gibbs was a keen environmentalist and was also fiercely patriotic,’’ said State Library of NSW Senior Curator Alison Wishart.

“Not many people know that during the First World War she designed a series of postcards and bookmarks featuring her popular characters to send to the soldiers overseas.”

To complement the display, Wollongong Botanic Gardens’ horticulturalist Carl Glaister will hold a talk discussing native plants and animals on Tuesday 10 July at 10am. It’s free, and you can book your ticket via Eventbrite or by calling Wollongong Central Library on (02) 4227 7414.

The May Gibbs Travelling Exhibition is on display at Wollongong Central Library until Wednesday 18 July.

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