The Peter Williams Collection
The Peter Williams Collection is the State Library’s collection of exemplary artwork from Australian picture books. With illustrations dating from 1920 to the present day, the picture book illustration collection showcases the artistry and diversity of Australia’s illustrated picture books.
The collection is mainly contemporary (1970 onwards) and includes thousands of illustrations, sketches, storyboards, and colour studies from renowned Australian artists, including Alison Lester, Kerry Argent, Ambelin Kwaymullina, Wendy Binks, Leigh Hobbs, Bob Graham, Shaun Tan and more.
Named in appreciation of Dr Peter Williams, the collection began with a donation of 107 artworks from the eponymous children’s literature enthusiast and expert. Since Williams’ initial contribution in 2006, the State Library has continued to add to the collection, recognising the importance of picture books in fostering a love of literacy and lifelong learning. Explore a few highlights below or find more through the catalogue using the call number “PWC”. Artworks from the illustration collection are regularly exhibited in the Story Place Gallery and incorporated into learning and engagement programs.
Picture Book Illustration Highlights
Picture books can sometimes be dismissed as simple.