posted on 03 Jan 2017

Posters by Maurice Sendak

Maurice Sendak is a legend in the world of children’s book illustration. He died back in 2012 but his legacy in terms of both his published output and his long term influence on other children’s artists is simply immense.

Sendak is an example of how book illustrators at their very best can transcend their often under-rated status and become judged as significant fine artists in its their right. In the introduction to this book Sendak says that although poster work made up only a very small proportion of his artistic output, he found these ‘easy’ images very satisfying to make. They were, he found, a form of relaxation because he was able to just let the ideas come at their own pace – often as emotional responses to the events he was advertising. In short, this is Sendak down-time activity.

He selected 24 of his favourites for this book printed in sumptuous colour and published in large folio card covers by The Bodley Head. And, if you are familiar with his book illustration – think Where The Wild Things Are for example - all the trade-mark Sendak art is on show here. In his introduction he says:

Finally, a few words about the presence of Wild Things in so many posters. They are, for better or worse, the best known of my characters and therefore their suitability as poster people seems self-evident to me.

As well as being an absolute feast for the eyes, I love the fact that Sendak was always willing to help promote events and shows that he felt committed to. His reputation for being a bit testy and unapproachable is certainly challenged by his generosity in this field - book festivals, operas and new publications all get the treatment and there’s not the slightest evidence he skimped on his time or creativity just because it was ‘only’ a poster.

All of the pictures collected here were done for pleasure, and they are offered up now in the hope they will give pleasure.

 

For some reason this book is unaccountably rare and difficult to find. When you do locate one on the second hand market, you may well have to pay up to £30 for a decent copy. A lot of money I know but it is a very lovely thing.

 

Terry Potter

January 2017