On December 22, a happy bunch of children's book creators came to a 'Moving' party, organised by Melbourne illustrators to celebrate Books Illustrated's past 15 years at Gasworks and future adventures.

Here Ann Haddon & Ann James cut the fabulous Books Illustrated cake made and decorated by Lee Burgemeestre.

Photo by Anne Spudvilas

ABOUT OUR MOVE

Over the last few years Books Illustrated has increasingly been invited to curate exhibitions for Australian regional galleries, conferences, festivals and international book fairs (particularly in Asia). To take full advantage of this opportunity to promote Australian picture books and their creators to a wider audience, we have decided to change our program and venue. So, after 15 years at Gasworks Arts Park, Books Illustrated is moving - initially to smaller premises where we can focus on planning these exhibitions and be more flexible to travel.

Although we officially closed the doors of the Gatehouse building here at Gasworks Arts Park at the end of 2007, we will be open by appointment and for special times until our move is underway. The board of the Gasworks Arts Park has called for expressions of interest for those who see potential for continuing the creative use of this historic building. It is intended that a decision will be made by the board in late February.

When relocated, Books Illustrated will have a showroom at 300 Beaconsfield Middle Park where original illustrations and limited edition prints will be exhibited and sold. The showroom will be open by appointment and for special showings.

Our website is currently being redeveloped, and will continue to promote exhibitions, workshops and activities, as well as sales of original illustrations; limited edition prints and books – especially signed and first edition picture books. We will continue our consultation services and illustration workshops and look forward to participating in seminars and conferences related to our interests and expertise.

As our primary focus will now be our exhibitions program and the sale and promotion of original illustrations, limited edition prints and signed books, we will no longer be offering the education program for schools, in-house exhibitions, functions and book launches or the children’s bookshop that our space in the Gatehouse Building at Gasworks Park has allowed for the past 15 years.

We will truly miss this special base we’ve had at Gasworks Arts Park and intend to continue our connection with Gasworks through exhibitions, workshops and involvement in their events.

Our new contact details will be posted on our website, where we invite you to keep in touch by registering to receive our monthly Enews.

Our best wishes for 2008
Ann Haddon & Ann James