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Event Information

Mirror - an exhibition of collages by Australian author / illustrator Jeannie Baker

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State Library of WA

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Date: 05 July - 28 September

Time: 09:00 - 18:00

A National Year of Reading event

Where: The Gallery, Ground floor
When: 5 July – 28 September 2012,
Open: during State Library opening hours:

Monday - Thursday: 9.00am - 8.00pm
Friday: 9.00am - 5.30pm
Saturday - Sunday: 10.00am - 5.30pm

Cost: Free
Group bookings: 9427 3202

The travelling exhibition Mirror features stunning original collages from the children’s book of the same name by renowned Australian author/illustrator Jeannie Baker.

The collages follow the lives of two boys; one in urban Australia and one in the 'Valley of Roses' in Southern Morocco. Despite great geographical and cultural separation, Baker’s works illustrate how their lives mirror one another in essential ways.

Audiences will be able to engage with the story as they walk through the gallery, with collages displayed in the same order as in the book. Scenes from Sydney will mirror equivalent scenes from the Valley of Roses, encouraging reflection on the essential similarities shared by both cultures. Statements in English and Arabic will allow for further interpretation.

"These works were inspired by a sense of commonality I felt while travelling as a stranger in remote Morocco," said Baker. "I believe that in the ways that really matter we are all the same. We are the mirror of one another."

The scenes within the collages are brought to life in incredible detail due to the ingenious and painstaking use of fabric, card and natural materials. Raised platforms will also ensure that little ones will be able to observe the works at eye level.

Jeannie Baker is well known for her use of rich textures and brilliant use of colour to create three dimensional scenes. She has been making collages since 1972, many of which are designed to illustrate picture books, but also stand individually as works of art. It can take Jeannie up to three years to produce a book.

Everyone can connect with the themes of family, community and home, vibrantly expressed through Baker's collages. Mirror is an exhibition that kids, parents and grandparents will all enjoy.

The State Library of Western Australia is exhibiting Mirror as part of its National Year of Reading program.

The tour of this exhibition is assisted by Books Illustrated.

The travelling exhibition ‘MIRROR’ is supported by the Australian Government through the Council for Australian-Arab Relations.

Image: Jeannie Baker, View from a window, Morocco | View from a window, Sydney (both 2010)