Jim Kay Exhibition Now Open at Seven Stories!

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We’ve now had two months to enjoy Jim Kay’s illustrated edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, and now lucky fans from the northeast of England have the opportunity to view some of the original illustrations up close! Seven Stories in Newcastle, which is the National Center for Children’s Books, now have several of Jim’s concept art works and final drafts on display in one of their many exhibitions and can be visited any time from now until April 17, 2016. Seven Stories says,

The exhibition is the chance for visitors to explore Jim’s fascinating process of reimagining one of the most famous books in children’s literature.  Highlights include:

  • Jim’s model of the Hogwarts Express
  • Impressive concept artwork of iconic scenes and characters
  • A short film revealing how he approached illustrating J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
  • Final oil on board artwork of Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore

Jim Kay Exhibition 2

Each illustration is accompanied by a short statement from Jim himself and gives an exclusive insight into his thought processes and inspiration behind his beautiful illustrations. Jim even took time off from his busy schedule to open the exhibition himself and meet some of his fans!

Jim Kay Exhibition

Jim revealed to MuggleNet that he is well under way on the second illustrated edition, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and that he is looking forward to a well-deserved day off over the Christmas holiday!

Jim Kay

This is not the first time that Seven Stories has worked with Jim. Back in August, they held a world exclusive exhibition featuring Jim’s illustration of Diagon Alley. The current exhibition is perhaps even more exciting for fans since it provides an exclusive insight into the vast amount of work that has gone into creating the breathtaking book! Seven Stories is currently running many other exhibitions, including Painting with Rainbows and Rhyme Around the World, which makes for a fun day out for the whole family!

If you can’t make the exhibition, don’t worry; you can read more about Jim Kay’s creative process here.

Are you planning on visiting the exhibition of have already attended? Let us know in the comments below!

Photos used with thanks to Damien Wooton and Seven Stories.