Nostalgic retrospective of teddy tales

Brighton alumna Jane Hissey has brought dozens of her finely crafted illustrations back to the university as part of a touring exhibition to celebrate her most famous character’s 30 years as a children’s favourite.

Open until 20 November, Old Bear and others can be seen in the corridor and cafe foyer gallery at Grand Parade. Do make a trip to Grand Parade to see them – the exhibition is free to view and families are most welcome.

Richly illustrated in coloured pencils, Jane’s books feature soft-toy characters and everyday objects that belong to her or her family. ‘Old Bear’ himself was given to her by her grandmother when she was born. He has travelled with Jane throughout the world; to schools, libraries and literary events, becoming increasingly worn and threadbare but recognisable to millions of Jane’s readers.

Jane studied Illustration BA(Hons) at Brighton, and she is reuniting former students and tutors at a celebratory event during the exhibition. Her first book sold seven million copies worldwide, topping the public lending rights list for more than a decade. The 40-episode television series of ‘Old Bear Stories’ won many international awards including a BAFTA and a NY Film Festival Gold Award.

Opening hours:    Saturday 10am–4pm, Monday to Friday 10am–5pm.
Free admission.