Burgh House presents the first-ever solo exhibition – Helen Oxenbury, celebrating the artist, illustrator and author.
Burgh House is delighted to unveil its 2025 exhibition programme, spotlighting the enduring power of illustration and storytelling through the works of three pioneering women artists who called Hampstead home. As art, literature, and culture come together, Helen Oxenbury: Illustrating the Land of Childhood and Victorian Idylls: Kate Greenaway and Helen Allingham explore the connections between word and image, creativity and community, and the timeless appeal of storytelling that resonates across generations.
Alongside a full rehang of museum, there will be the first-ever solo exhibition dedicated to the celebrated artist, illustrator, and author Helen Oxenbury. A cornerstone of childhood and parenthood for generations, Oxenbury’s work is beloved for its universal appeal, subtle celebration of diversity, and ability to connect with readers of all ages.
From the joyous Afro-Caribbean family gathering in So Much (1994) to her award-winning reimagining of Alice in Wonderland (1999), and the iconic We’re Going on a Bear Hunt (1989), Oxenbury’s illustrations have captivated hearts worldwide. This exhibition will showcase her original gouache paintings and sketches, exploring the artistry behind her timeless creations and her significant contributions to children's literature.
Accompanying Oxenbury’s groundbreaking show, Burgh House will present Victorian Idylls: Kate Greenaway and Helen Allingham. This newly-curated display at Burgh House will celebrate two Victorian-era illustrators and artists whose legacy continues to inspire. Kate Greenaway (1846–1901) revolutionised children’s book illustration with her delicate and nostalgic images, while Helen Allingham (1848–1926) became renowned for her idyllic rural watercolours and illustrations for books and periodicals. Both women were lifelong friends and often sketched together on Hampstead Heath, forging a connection between art, literature, and the natural beauty of the area.
Together, these exhibitions will highlight Hampstead’s historical and ongoing reputation as a hub for creativity and collaboration. They offer visitors a rare opportunity to explore the intersections of art, storytelling, and community through the works of three remarkable illustrators who have shaped our cultural landscape.
Helen Oxenbury: Illustrating the Land of Childhood
Victorian Idylls: Kate Greenaway and Helen Allingham
Location: Burgh House, New End Square, London, NW3 1LT
Dates: Wednesday 5th March – Sunday 14th December 2025
Times: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sundays, 10am-4pm
Admission: Free
Website: www.burghhouse.org.uk