Alice in Wonderland exhibition at the British Library

I took the opportunity of a rare trip to London to pop into the British Library today to see the Alice in Wonderland exhibition today. Did you know that Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland were first published in 1865 so last year celebrated their 150th anniversary? I have to admit I haven’t seen or heard many things about the anniversary, although we did enjoy The Alice Look display at the Museum of Childhood last year.

That was also the first time I had seen the Gallymoggers Reynard fabric from the Alice in Wonderland themed SS15 Collection by Liberty. I’m pleased to say that not only did I buy some at the Knitting & Stitching Show last October, this week I finished the quilt. But more about that in another post.

Alice in Wonderland exhibition at the British Library

The Alice in Wonderland exhibition has been open for a while and is a free exhibition at the British Library. It is open until 17th April so you still have the chance to go and see it for yourself. On this occasion I went by myself but this is a child-friendly exhibition and I know my children would have enjoyed it.

I can’t imagine that anyone hasn’t heard of Alice in Wonderland. Even if you haven’t read the book I’m sure you will have heard of the characters, some of the famous lines or seen Alice inspired toys, books, films or art.

This exhibition explores how Alice has captured our imagination since it was first published in 1865. The exhibition is in three parts: the first lets you explore the story, illustrated with some of the famous pictures you will probably remember from your own favourite childhood version. This is the part I know my children would love with oversized pictures and mirrors which really sets the scene for the story.

The second part examines the history of the book, the author, Alice herself, various editions and illustrators. The cases are stuffed with exhibits, including wonderful original documents and drawings.

The influence and legacy of Alice in Wonderland is covered in the third part. I love the inclusion of a sculpture of the bottom half of Alice, legs up in the air as she disappears down the rabbit-hole. There was an amazing 1960s psychedelic poster and so much more.

This is a lovely exhibition and reminded me that there is so much to the original story that I really need to go back and read it again. I love the way it has been interpreted by artists and film makers over the years and would recommend this if you are near the British Library.

You may also be interested in this Alice in Wonderland related post:

Mad Hatters’ tea cups