Being a working mum with two pre-schoolers, my cultural references are quite limited as I spend a lot of time reading books with the children (and OK admittedly – CBeebies plays quite a big part).  I’ve always greatly enjoyed the magical and mystical world of children’s book illustrations, an interest which started in my own childhood with my addiction to Beatrix Potter books and the wonderful animal characters she brought to life from her own imagination.

Now in the 21^st century, CGI animation is a big draw to the kids, but the more realistic, the less charm in my opinion.  One of my favourite authors and illustrators is Lauren Child, creator of the Charlie and Lola series.   Her quirky style of writing and engaging imagery makes her books stand out for me as well as for my girls (including my very own ‘little sister Lola’ who is also ‘small and very funny’).

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Banksy is probably one of the most famous artists alive. His stencil-style ‘guerrilla’ art became his trademark along with his strong anti-war, anti-capitalist and anti-establishment messages. His first pieces appeared on the streets of Bristol and London in early 90’s and many more have appeared around the world since.

Although his art carries strong political messages they are also quite amusing and daring… in 2006 he left an inflatable doll dress as a Guantanamo prisoner in Disneyland to bring attention to the conditions of the terror suspects. He’s also believed to have smuggled a fake picture he created of a smiling Mona Lisa into the Paris Louver museum and hung it near the real one.

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