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 Tracey 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.
Sarah Lawrance, Collections Director at Seven Stories, said:
“Nick Sharratt’s deceptively simple graphic style makes him instantly recognisable, not only as the illustrator of numerous Jacqueline Wilson titles but also for his own picture books.
“Nick has been a really important part of the reading experience of children since the mid-1990s and we’re absolutely thrilled that he’s chosen to place his archive at Seven Stories. We’re looking forward to featuring work from his archive in our next exhibition, ‘Time to get up!’ in 2018 and, no doubt, in many more shows in the future.”
As well as donating his archive, Nick and author Pippa Goodhart have also dedicated their latest book, You Choose in Space, to Seven Stories. This will be the first time a book has been dedicated to the Centre.
Kate Edwards, Chief Executive of Seven Stories, said:
“Nick is, and has always been, a loyal supporter of Seven Stories. He was with us to celebrate our opening day in August 2005, alongside Jacqueline Wilson, and has continued to work with us ever since. We are absolutely delighted that Nick has chosen to donate his archive to the growing collection. The book dedication is a first for Seven Stories – the first of many we hope!”
Sarah Hastelow, Publicity Officer at Penguin Random House Children’s, said:
“We are thrilled to be publishing You Choose in Space this autumn; a bright, bold, brilliant follow up to Nick and Pippa’s original choose-your-own adventure which has positively flown off shelves in the past decade – selling over one million copies to date! With thousands of surprises hidden on every page, You Choose in Space is a truly enthralling reading experience, and we are extremely excited that Seven Stories plans to bring Nick’s creations to life even further.”
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 Saturday 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)
Zoom off into space for an adventure where YOU CHOOSE what happens next. Which alien would you most like to be friends with? And what fantastically freaky food will you decide to munch for lunch?
Join author Pippa Goodhart and illustrator Nick Sharratt as they celebrate new book You Choose in Space, which is dedicated to Seven Stories! Head on up into the attic to hear a very special reading of the book, to play space-themed games and to draw-along with Nick. Fancy dress encouraged – astronauts and space monsters most welcome! Supported by Penguin Random House. For families.
Book Cover Design with Nick Sharratt
Sunday 19 November, 3pm
£7 per person
To celebrate the publication of new book You Choose in Space illustrator Nick Sharratt – and loyal Seven Stories supporter – hosts an event looking at his children’s book cover designs. Hear Nick talk about his working process and portfolio to date and watch as he demonstrates his talent for drawing before trying your hand. With a unique opportunity afterwards to view original drawings from the Nick Sharratt Collection, donated earlier this year to Seven Stories. For young adults.
You Choose in Space by Nick Sharratt and Pippa Goodhart will be published on 21 September 2017.