What picture books can convey

I think the fun of picture books lies in the depth of expression that goes beyond being merely aimed at children.
What kind of images should we use, what words should we choose, and what kind of structure and specifications should we use?
To create a good picture book, in addition to being able to draw pictures (whether purely pictures or design motifs), you need the objectivity of an editor, the refined words of a poet, and a message. A picture book born from this can be more eloquent and memorable than a book full of difficult words.

Picture books are not necessarily just for children, but it seems to me that most well-known picture book authors create books with the hope of children's happiness and healthy growth.

Chihiro Iwasaki is one of them, and has left behind many excellent works.
When children see themselves in Chihiro's paintings, they are sure to feel relieved by her tolerance for laughing, feeling confused, and feeling sad. Adults see their former selves and appreciate the preciousness of children being able to remain children. They are also touched by the dreamy colors and blurs of the watercolor paints, the artistic brilliance of each of the mischievous children's expressions and gestures, and the underlying wish for peace.

This time I would like to introduce Chihiro Iwasaki's last picture book, "Children in the Fires of War."
This picture book is woven together with words and images that seem like a recollection or a murmur of the pain that Chihiro felt for children who had no choice but to live in the midst of war, overlaying her own experiences of World War II and the Vietnam War that occurred at the time.

Chihiro has painted adorable images of children and nature, but perhaps his final message was a prayer for peace that was never fulfilled.

It is saddening and frustrating that images of children being killed at a young age or losing their parents and siblings are still a common sight in modern-day occupied and conflict zones such as Palestine, Syria, Ukraine, and Sudan.

I think we need to create a world where children can live as naturally and naturally as children, as if they were captivated by the beautiful but sad red cyclamen flowers. I hope that this work, which wishes for peace, will be loved not as something universal, but as something of the past.

As an adult who is on the fringes of "expression," I too would like to do what I can.

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This year marks the 50th anniversary of Chihiro Iwasaki's death, and the Chihiro Art Museum is holding an exhibition with three themes: "Play," "Nature," and "Peace." In "We're All Friends," which focuses on the theme of "Peace," visitors are asked to think about answers to questions about peace through their own words, interactive exhibits, and play. The exhibition will run until September 1st in Azumino, and from October 12th in Tokyo.
The picture book "Children in the Fire of War" is also featured in the collection.


To all children aged 50 and over

"We're all friends."
Azumino Chihiro Art Museum
June 8th (Sat) - September 1st (Sun)

Chihiro Art Museum, Tokyo
October 12th (Saturday) - January 31st, 2025 (Friday)

https://chihiro.jp/2024kodomo/

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Text and photos: fumika arasawa designer Freelance ⇄ company employee, occasionally helping friends out. Moved to Matsumoto in 2024. Instagram: @fumika * Click here to purchase related products at rovakk musikk.

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Written and illustrated by Chihiro Iwasaki - Children in the Fire

Artwork: Chihiro Iwasaki
Format: book, hardcover
ISBN: 9784991291012
Link on rovakk musikk : https://rovakk.com/products/chihiro-senkanonakanokodomo-new

WALLFLOWER CATALOGUE

A variety of artworks that will inspire your design spirit bloom on your walls every day.
Designer Arasawa Fumika will introduce one piece each time.
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