The National Library of Australia has invited children on school holidays to visit its Inked: Play exhibition now open in Canberra.
Exhibition Curator, Guy Hansen said Inked: Play looked at the wonderful world of cartoons, ideas, history and politics in accessible and activity-based ways.
He said from exploring, drawing and reading, Inked: Play had a range of experiences to engage children.
“Children learn best through creative play in the company of adults they trust and Inked: Play has been set up to support your child’s learning,” Dr Hansen said.
“Presenting these subjects in easily accessible ways is quite difficult, and a challenge professional cartoonists know very well.”
He said cartoonists could expertly condense a complex idea or event down into one simple drawing — sometimes turning to fairy tales, folk songs and other cultural touchstones to express ideas.
“Many have used children’s stories, such as the Gumnut Babies or Little Red Riding Hood, to reflect on the current state of Australia and the world,” Dr Hansen said.
“These cartoons, and others, are on display in Inked: Play.
“Children can see the famous Gumnut Babies going off to war, create their own cartoon or draw a protest sign to hang on our display wall.”
Inked: Play is open daily as part of the Inked: Australian Cartoons free exhibition, at the National Library of Australia until 21 July.
