Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books, has acquired the archive of the award-winning British author and illustrator Nick Sharratt.
In doing so, Nick has become the latest high profile-figure from the world of children’s books to donate their archive to the Centre, joining the likes of Michael Morpurgo and South African author Beverley Naidoo.
With support from the Heritage Lottery Fund Collecting Cultures programme, Seven Stories is now home to much-loved material surrounding significant milestones in Nick’s career, most notably the original illustrations for Jaqueline Wilson’s novels, including the iconic artwork for The Story of Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather.
As well as work from his own books for younger readers, such as the final layouts for the fantastic Ketchup on Your Cornflakes? the archive also contains artwork for Nick’s many collaborative projects with other authors including, among others, Julia Donaldson and Jeremy Strong.
The archive also sheds light on Nick’s working process, with a wide range of graphite sketches, roughs, experiments with typography and finished cover artwork, all of which feature combinations of strong lines, bold colours and hints of texture that make up Nick’s distinctive illustrations.
To mark the occasion and to celebrate the publication of You Choose in Space, Nick will be visiting Seven Stories and hosting a day of events for families and young adults on Sunday 19th November:
You Choose in Space!
Sunday 19 November, 11am
Booking essential. £5 per person. (event ticket only, additional admission charges apply to see the rest of the Visitor Centre)
Book Cover Design with Nick Sharratt
Sunday 19 November, 3pm
£7 per person