A SERIES of illustrations by award-winning illustrator and former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell is being put up for auction to help put books into the hands of local children.
The Jersey Festival of Words is inviting Islanders to bid on 18 original illustrations donated by Mr Riddell following his appearance at this year’s festival.
The artwork is now on display at Jersey Library, where visitors can view the collection and take part in the auction.
The exhibition runs until 27 November on the Library’s second floor.
The illustrations were created during an event featuring Mr Riddell alongside Jersey storyteller John Henry Falle, better known as The Story Beast, which brought Norman history to life through storytelling and live drawing.
Marking 1,000 years since the birth of William the Conqueror, the event explored the story of 12th-century Jersey monk Master Wace and his epic account of Norman history, the Roman de Rou.
As The Story Beast introduced the characters and stories, Mr Riddell brought them to life on paper with his distinctive illustrations, depicting Vikings, battles, 1066 and even an ancestor who fought zombies.
Now, all 18 original drawings are available to the public through the auction, with bids starting at just £10 per illustration and the highest bidder for each piece will take home the original artwork.
Those unable to visit Jersey Library can also view the full collection online prior to the event and submit their bids through the online bidding document.
Every penny raised will go towards providing books for children in Jersey whose families cannot afford them, helping more young people experience the enjoyment and benefits of reading.
The illustrations can be viewed at jerseyfestivalofwords.org/events/illustration-auction/
