AN EXHIBITION of Paul Kidby’s work as Discworld character designer and illustrator will open at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum next month.
It traces his visual journey from sketchy drawings on cheap paper to today’s work.
Paul first met author Terry Pratchett in 1993 and went on to become the ‘artist of choice’ for the Discworld books.
He designed the book covers from 2002 until the final volume appeared in 2015, shortly after Sir Terry’s death.
Paul has also illustrated many related publications including The Art of Discworld, The Last Hero and The Ultimate Discworld Companion.
The exhibition contains a new selection of artworks, rarely seen on display, providing a unique chance for Discworld fans to see them first hand.
It includes colourful paintings, exquisite pencil drawings, a bronze bust of Sir Terry sculpted by Paul and a rogue’s gallery of favourite characters including Rincewind, Twoflower, the Librarian, Tiffany Aching, the Wee Free Men, Nanny Ogg, Conina and Errol.
The exhibition also features Paul’s Discworld parodies of famous artworks by Gainsborough, M C Escher, Leonardo da Vinci and Holman Hunt.
Museums Worcestershire senior curator Deborah Fox said “We are absolutely delighted to host this stunning exhibition of Paul Kidby’s incredible work – bringing Discworld’s beloved characters to life in a way that fans won’t want to miss.”
Designing Terry Pratchett’s Discworld: 30 Years of Paul Kidby’s Illustrations is a touring exhibition on loan from St Barbe Museum + Art Gallery. It opens at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum from September 13 until January 4.
Visit www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk for more information.
