Artistically collect: The 69th international children's book exhibition enthusiastic!

Artistically collect: The 69th international children's book exhibition enthusiastic!

The 69th International Children's Book Exhibition entitled "Collection passion" opened on December 14, 2024 in the Klingspor Museum in Offenbach. This exhibition offers a fascinating presentation of the current picture book sheet in Germany and from other countries. The organizers give a broad insight into a selection of children's books that convince with the design and visual language. Many of these works contain social issues and discourses that are discussed.

The topics of feelings and their handling, which play a central role in current picture book production, are particularly noteworthy. These books encourage children to perceive their emotions and thus support their personal development. In addition, the exhibition offers a large space for non -fiction books that convey current knowledge in aesthetic and entertaining ways.

insights into the collections

The focus of the exhibition is on the approach of "collecting". The Klingspor Museum has an extensive collection of 84,000 objects, which include books, folders, posters, graphics and font patterns. Collecting includes essential activities such as selecting, searching, sorting and storing. The exhibition also illustrates that collection concepts in museums and libraries are essential to organize and record collected items.

Collecting also has a crucial influence on how history is written and conveyed. People of all ages pursue different collective interests, be they stamps, stones or in this case children's books. Contemporary artists are also presented within the exhibition, who are critical of collecting the topic.

An interesting highlight of the exhibition is the “swearing word archive” by the artist Ingke Günther, which contains 2775 strength expressions. In addition, the artists Marina Kampka and Lena wrote with their “City Stamp” project and Madlen Strebel with photos of their important objects, various perspectives on collecting. Miniature photo books by Marie Schwarze serve as an archive for digital photos, while the illustrator Dayeon Auh contributes original drawings that collect the colors, shapes and emotions.

accompanying program and workshop

The exhibition is accompanied by a varied program from conversations and workshops. A special highlight is the workshop under the direction of the artist Petra Ober, which takes place on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Interested adults and young people can take part from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It is possible to bring small collections such as texts, pictures, photos and paper forms and to experiment with techniques such as lasuring colors, drawing and collage. The results can also be bound in simple technology. The costs for participation are 40 euros and registrations are possible until February 12, either by email to klingspor@museum.de or by phone at 069 8065 2164 during opening hours.

The exhibition "Skillerschaft" can be visited in the Klingspor Museum until March 23, 2025 and thus offers a comprehensive platform to experience the diversity and beauty of children's book art, which is illuminated by collecting in all its facets. A concert by Stephanie Fehling's music school at the opening underlines the cultural framework of this special event.