The World of Brian Wildsmith

World-renowned children’s book author and illustrator Brian Wildsmith is being celebrated through two new exhibitions at The Cooper Gallery and Experience Barnsley Museum. Displays are awash with the vibrant palette and limitless imagination which were so recognisable in Brian’s beloved books, including his ABC, The Owl and the Woodpecker, Jungle Party, and many more.

 

 

  • An elephant with a bird on its head following a python
    Jungle Party - Python's Party © The Brian Wildsmith Estate, 2024. Reproduced with permission of The Brian Wildsmith Estate and Oxford University Press.
  • A monkey swinging in a tree
    Jungle Party - The Monkey and the Tree © The Brian Wildsmith Estate, 2024. Reproduced with permission of The Brian Wildsmith Estate and Oxford University Press.
  • A space scene with planets including earth and spaceship that looks like a helicopter
    The Amazing World of Words - Space © The Brian Wildsmith Estate, 2024. Reproduced with permission of The Brian Wildsmith Estate and Oxford University Press.

To see more of Brian's work visit his website

Blog

Brian Wildsmith sat in a field at Wentworth Woodhouse painting

Brian Lawrence Wildsmith was born on 22 January 1930 in Penistone to parents Paul and Annie, in a terraced stone house on Queen Street. Brian had two brothers, Donald, Alan as well as a sister, Joy. A creative child, he enjoyed art, sports, and music. He attended the primary school St Helens. Brian had fond memories of his time there, he spoke with great affection about his softly spoken teacher Miss Marron and of the warm and creative atmosphere the school provided.

Read more in this blog

Now open at Experience Barnsley Museum and The Cooper Gallery until 4 January 2025

Coming Home: The Life of Brian Wildsmith at Experience Barnsley

Paws, Claws, Tales & Roars: The Art of Brian Wildsmith at The Cooper Gallery

Paws, Claws, Tales & Roars: The Next Generation

Also on display at The Cooper Gallery in the Sadler Room is Paws, Claws, Tales & Roars: The Next Generation

Barnsley Museums and Fusion, Barnsley’s Cultural Education Partnership are proud to present a display of winning artworks from the Art Competition for Schools 2024, celebrating the talents of children and young people (4-18 years) from across Barnsley.

You can now see all the submissions to the competition here 

Exhibition Events Guide

(PDF, 816 KB)