Designing a Picture Book Collection for Adults: A Guide to Curation and Display

Introduction

Picture books are often associated with children’s literature, but there is no reason why they cannot be enjoyed by adults as well. In fact, many picture books have themes and messages that resonate with adults just as much as they do with children. However, designing a picture book collection for adults requires careful consideration of the curation and display methods used.

Curation

The first step in creating a picture book collection for adults is to curate the selection of books. This involves choosing books that are visually appealing, have engaging stories or themes, and are relevant to adult interests. Here are some tips to consider when selecting pictures books:

  • Subject matter: Choose books that deal with mature themes such as relationships, mortality, and personal growth.
  • Artwork: Select books with high-quality illustrations that appeal to adults’ sense of aesthetics.
  • Relevance: Consider books that explore contemporary issues or historical events that are relevant to adult interests.

Example

One example of a picture book that fits these criteria is “The Arrival” by Shaun Tan. This book tells the story of a migrant’s journey to a new country and explores themes of identity, belonging, and hope. The illustrations are stunning and would appeal to adults’ sense of aesthetics.

Display

Once you have curated your selection of picture books, it’s time to think about how they will be displayed. Here are some tips to consider:

  • Grouping: Group books by theme or subject matter to create a cohesive display.
  • Arrangement: Arrange the books in a visually appealing way that encourages browsing and exploration.
  • Context: Provide context for each book by including relevant information such as author notes, illustrations, or quotes.

Example

One example of how you could display picture books is to group them by theme. For example, you could have a section on “Love” with books that explore relationships, another on “Grief” with books that deal with loss and mourning, and so on. You could also include some interactive elements such as quotes or illustrations from the books themselves.

Conclusion

Designing a picture book collection for adults requires careful consideration of both curation and display methods. By selecting books that are visually appealing, have engaging stories or themes, and are relevant to adult interests, you can create a collection that is both aesthetically pleasing and intellectually stimulating. Similarly, by grouping and arranging the books in a way that encourages browsing and exploration, you can create an interactive experience that engages readers and inspires discussion. With these tips in mind, you can create a picture book collection for adults that is truly unique and engaging.