Bologna Children’s Book Fair 2018
Hello! From Australia
Who would believe that I would have the unique opportunity to returned to the Australian stand for a second year in a row at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair 2018?
It was a privilege to participate on the creator’s table again with a very passionate cohort of authors and illustrators and publishers.
Through expert planning , co-ordination and setting up by Ann James and Ann Haddon from Books Illustrated , the ‘new look’ Australian stand had a major presence at the stand attracting enthusiastic responses from international visitors alike.
(setting up)
The 2018 Australian stand featured notable Australian Indigenous Children’s Publishing, celebrating indigenous illustrators, writers and stories to share with the world! Graphic designer and illustrator , Lee Burgemeestre designed the striking visual presentation of the stand with a powerful backdrop of Lisa Kennedy’s illustration from the picture book written by Joy Murphy ‘Welcome to Country'(Walker Books). Also scattered across the stand where whimsical illustrations by contributing illustrator, Bronwyn Houston from her beautiful book ‘Counting Aussie Animals in My Backyard’ (Magabala Books).
Illustrator Ann James on the creator’s table.
The Australian stand was very excited to see a feature article in the first day Book Seller publication for the fair.
Sharing the creator’s table with the lovely Lee Burgemeestre for an afternoon was a real highlight for me! It is so encouraging to share ideas/stories and creative processes with supportive peers. I will treasure her inspirational optimism, strength and leadership from our visits to Bologna and thank her for paving the way with such exciting adventures!
Unexpected highlights also include presentations and talks by international creators at the Illustrators cafe. Hearing Helen Oxenbury speak was very uplifting. Her grace and passion for her craft was energizing and she was a stand out for her elegant ability to capture interest from all ages and communities on the international stage.
Other adventures included the Australian stand launch and after party, the party at the Ireland stand, visiting our friends at Tara Books, and catching up again with so many visiting participants.
Of course it would not be a trip to Bologna without wondering through the streets, enjoying the food, the gelato and the people of Bologna itself.
What a fabulous experience Anne! Hope you got some good contacts and opportunities from being there. Good luck!
I agree with Marjory, Anne. Looks and sounds like you had the best time again and so well deserved.