It will celebrate the life work of creator Tove Jansson.
If you’re a child of the 1980s, chances are you’ll remember the first showing of the wholesome little animated cartoon TV programme, the Moomins. Go back further, and you might have been a fan of the initial comic books. It’s very likely that, even if you were born after this time, you’ll have gotten familiar with the iconic children’s characters, be it from catching one of the numerous different adaptations, or from having the love passed down from a nostalgic family member.
Wherever it came from, we’re sure there are many of you out there with fond memories of the cartoon, which is what makes this summer exhibition all the more exciting. Over at Walthamstow Wetlands, Europe’s largest nature reserve, you can embark on a trail dedicated to the cute, hippo-like cartoon characters.
The full experience is named ‘The Woman Who Fell In Love With An Island’, based on the creator of the Moomins, Tove Jansson. This trail and exhibition celebrates the life of the Finnish-Swedish author, novelist, painter and illustrator. Tove Jansson, most famous for her ever-present creation of the Moomins, was also known for living a hermit-style life on a remote island just off Finland. This was the basis of many themes in her work, hence the ultimate title for this unique experience at the Wetlands.
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At The Engine House in Walthamstow Wetlands, attendees will be shown an exhibition based on Tove Jansson’s island home, featuring numerous artworks and objects.
You’ll also be offered a beautiful, multi-instrument piece of audio by contemporary composer Erland Cooper to accompany the trail. It’s based on the island experience, and features spoken word renditions of Jansson’s own essay “The Island”.
“To me it feels almost like a soundwalk through her creative world, across the seas and back again into a city where local sounds of birds may interact freely with those of the score itself,” said Erland Cooper. “She seemed to have such grace and affection towards her surroundings and I hope this meditative score touches on just a little bit on her magic.”
“The Woman Who Fell In Love With An Island” will take over Walthamstow Wetlands between June 18-September 23, 2021. You can find more information, and buy tickets over on the exhibition’s website.