An analysis of art and illustration in children's literature with particular reference to the picture book

Abstract

This thesis conveys the contribution and significance of the visual mode of communication in children's literature, particularly the picture book. A primary feature is the presence of over one hundred and forty photographs which visually support and extend the text. An historical overview forms the introduction and serves to outline the significant developments which have combined to establish illustration as a major component of modern children's literature. A chapter concerned with the nature of illustration highlights its primary communicative function and descriptive, elucidatory, and interpretive roles. Some attention is focussed on the ways in which original artwork is reproduced in books, and an idea of pitfalls for artists uninformed about printing processes is given. The central discussion and philosophical base of the thesis establishes the artist as a creative partner within a book and provides the case for illustration as a fine art form. The artist's contribution within a book is not always successful, however, and an important chapter covers evaluation of illustrations. A further chapter defines the picture book as an optical medium dominated by the artist, who performs as a visual storyteller and orchestrates a number of visual components into aesthetic whole. The attraction of the picture book to artists lies in the vital and integral role of pictures within this art form. The picture book offers much scope for artistic interpretation and experimentation with media and graphic ideas. A significant section of the thesis presents the plethora of art styles and media exhibited in modern picture books and explores the idea that children should reap the riches of this visual feast. Appendices provide booklists of interest and value, and a list of illustrators introduces readers to some modern artists who have imaginatively extended stories they have illustrated. A bibliography of the books from which photographs were taken is included, and the thesis concludes with a comprehensive bibliography of the background reading and resource material on which it is based.