Brian Wildsmith Picture Book Original Artworks at Seoul Arts Center

Picture books that convey heartfelt warmth across generations always resonate with enduring wonder. Presented in Exhibition Hall 2 of the Seoul Calligraphy Art Museum at Seoul Arts Center, Brian Wildsmith Picture Book Original Artworks is a landmark exhibition celebrating the rich creative universe of British picture book master Brian Wildsmith.

Spanning more than six decades of artistic practice, the showcase marks a rare encounter with the artist’s original illustrations alongside previously unreleased early drawings. Here is a comprehensive overview of essential visitor details and key artistic highlights before planning your visit.

Brian Wildsmith Picture Book Original Artworks Visitor Information

• Exhibition Title: Brian Wildsmith Picture Book Original Artworks (와일드스미스 그림책 원화展)
• Exhibition Period: July 7, 2026 – October 16, 2026
• Venue: Seoul Arts Center, Seoul Calligraphy Art Museum, Exhibition Hall 2 (2406 Nambusunhwan-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul)
• Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last admission: 6:10 PM)
• Closed Days: Closed every Monday
• Admission: Adults 20,000 KRW, Children and Youth 15,000 KRW
• Participating Artist: Brian Wildsmith

A Master’s World Encountered in Asia for the First Time

Brian Wildsmith is widely celebrated as one of Britain’s three great picture book masters. Presented in Exhibition Hall 2 of the Seoul Calligraphy Art Museum at Seoul Arts Center, this extensive exhibition is the first in Asia to spotlight approximately 200 of his original illustrations.

The galleries unveil original illustrations from his most acclaimed picture books, including his Kate Greenaway Medal-winning ABC, alongside beloved classics such as The Moonlight Man and The Lion and the Rat. With the inclusion of previously unreleased early paintings and exploratory drawings, visitors can survey the chronological trajectory of the artist’s sixty-year career in a single comprehensive setting.

Three Key Perspectives to Appreciate in the Galleries

First, experience over 200 original picture book artworks that synthesize six decades of artistic devotion. By examining the living texture of original paintings on paper, visitors can retrace the master’s creative footprints, extending from his groundbreaking ABC to his late-career illustrated volumes.

Second, appreciate the inventive visual techniques of a painter often called a “magician of brilliant color.” Visitors can discover how collage techniques, transparent watercolor washes, and opaque gouache pigments intertwine on the surface of paper to generate vivid, energetic brushwork.

Third, immerse yourself in storytelling that celebrates the harmonious coexistence of nature, animals, and humanity. Wildsmith’s affectionate and empathetic visual perspective delivers profound artistic resonance to visitors of all generations, from young children to adults.

Essential Visitor Guidelines Before Arrival

The exhibition is located in Exhibition Hall 2 of the Seoul Calligraphy Art Museum at Seoul Arts Center. The galleries operate Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with final entry admitted at 6:10 PM. Because the exhibition encompasses approximately 200 delicate original works, arriving with ample time before the last admission cutoff is recommended. The museum is closed every Monday.

Admission is 20,000 KRW for adults and 15,000 KRW for children and youth.

Official Information and Related Exhibitions

Detailed scheduling and booking information can be confirmed on the Seoul Arts Center official page.

While exploring visual arts in Seoul, you may also enjoy reading our guides to This Is (Not) Conceptual Art and Martin Parr: We Are Martin Parr.