British illustrative author apes artistic masters with Beijing exhibition

Perhaps many children will find resonance with Willy the Wimp, a childlike gorilla character brought to life by the drawing pen of British author Anthony Browne.

He is timid when confronted with problems, as his name suggests, and he wouldn't hurt a fly. However, the young ape has been blessed with a powerful imagination and a strong will, and eventually nurtures his confidence thanks to the support of his friends.

Since his first children's story Through the Magic Mirror, a prolific Browne has published more than 50 books, which have been translated into 26 languages, and have earned him numerous top-tier children's publishing awards, including two Kate Greenaway Medals and the world's highest recognition available to creators of children's literature - the Hans Christian Andersen Award - in 2000.

Now, a rare opportunity has arisen for young Chinese fans of Browne's work, as the first ever exhibition of original artwork by the illustrative author is currently underway at the National Library of China in Beijing and will run through Sept 22.

The exhibition, Anthony Browne's Happy Museum, is named after the first comprehensive collection of his work published in China thanks to Beijing-based China CITIC Press.The event displays 162 artworks by Browne. Of course, Willy - who Browne has said is a semi-autobiographical character - and other iconic gorilla characters created by the author, are the highlights.

"His mind is just boundless when creating these characters," Surina, from the Mongolian ethnic group, curator of the exhibition from China CITIC Press, tells China Daily. "His books usher us to shuttle between reality and imagination.

"It's fun reading the books, which are full of novelties," she continues. "For decades children have loved these surprises, because it is like hunting for treasure within the pages of the book."

Browne's strong social conscience has also influenced the creation of Willy the Wimp, and through the character, he shows his consideration for disadvantaged groups of people.