The Pamela Allen AM exhibition is a celebration of the life and work of Pamela Allen, a renowned author and illustrator of children's books. This exhibition will be held at the State Library of New South Wales, opening in September 2025 and running for an impressive 20 months until July 2027.
Pamela Allen's works have been cherished across generations, with her books translated into multiple languages, including Chinese, Korean, French, and Maori. The exhibition underscores the enduring appeal of her storytelling and illustrations, which have made her books some of the most beloved read-aloud stories in Australia. Visitors will get an "inside story" of her art and legacy, showcasing why her works continue to inspire readers of all ages.
The Pamela Allen AM exhibition at the State Library of New South Wales will offer a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Here are some highlights:
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Interactive Displays: Visitors can explore Pamela Allen's creative process through original illustrations, preliminary sketches, and behind-the-scenes insights into her storytelling.
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Multilingual Collection: The exhibition will showcase her works in various languages, including Chinese, Korean, French, and Maori, reflecting her global impact.
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Family-Friendly Activities: There will be dedicated spaces for younger visitors, featuring hands-on activities like drawing popular book characters, creating zines, and engaging with tactile exhibits.
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Celebration of Legacy: The exhibition will delve into Pamela Allen's contributions to children's literature, including her latest book, Cock-a-Doodle-Do, published at the age of 90.
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Cultural Significance: It emphasizes the importance of reading aloud and the role of picture books in fostering a love for storytelling across generations.
Pamela Allen Books
Pamela Allen has created many beloved children's books. Here are some of her most popular works:
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Who Sank the Boat? (1982) – A delightful story about teamwork and balance.
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Mr. Archimedes' Bath (1980) – A fun tale exploring the concept of displacement.
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Alexander's Outing (1994) – A charming adventure of a duckling in Sydney.
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Bertie and the Bear (1984) – A lively story filled with rhythm and repetition.
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Grandpa and Thomas (2003) – A heartwarming tale of a grandfather and grandson at the beach.
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Mr. McGee series – Featuring whimsical adventures of the quirky character Mr. McGee.
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The Potato People (2002) – A touching story about a grandmother and grandson.
For more information: State Library of New South Wales