Busy Buttons marks 80 years since first Moomin story with creative exhibition

An exhibition marking 80 years since the publication of Tove Jansson’s first Moomin story was held by a Windsor charity.

The creative spirit of Moomin Valley came to life at Busy Buttons CORE Charity’s My Moomin World exhibition, which took place on Sunday, November 9.

After a summer of delving into the world of Moomins, the exhibition provided families with the chance to see their children’s art pieces showcasing their creative journeys of exploring and learning about a range of topics and learning various skills.

Inspired by author and artist Tove Jansson’s work, youngsters at Busy Buttons explored subjects such as bravery, loss, relocation, overcoming loneliness, climate change, missing a parent, taking initiative, compassion, acceptance and empathy.

The artwork on display covered a range of mediums, including models, puppets, prints, illustrations, story boxes and animation.

Each piece reflected Moomin’s ability to explore aspects of life and relationships through unique and curious characters.

Royal Borough councillor Karen Davies (Lib Dem, Clewer East), attended the exhibition and took a look at the artwork on display.

Guests were treated to a short presentation and an insight into the children’s efforts and the work of the volunteers to showcase the artwork at the exhibition.

Louella Fernandez-Lempiäinen, creative director at Busy Buttons CORE Charity, said: “The importance of spending time reading was a big highlight alongside encouraging imagination, creativity and acceptance of each unique person.”

Lautaro Lempiäinen, educational programmes co-ordinator, said: “This exhibition wasn’t just about art.

"It was about children expressing themselves, exploring ideas and understanding the world through imagination, just as Tove Jansson would have championed.” 

For more information, contact community@busybuttons.org or visit www.busybuttons.org

The charity is also inviting families to its Christmas fundraiser ‘Windsor Jingle and Joy Family Day’ from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, December 6.

The event will feature a range of attractions, including art activities, Santa, an animal farm, traditional games, an elf trail, tombola, raffle, hot dogs and hot chocolate.

All raffle tickets, tokens and passes will contribute towards the charity’s Room2Grow appeal, searching for a permanent home.

To book tickets to the event, visit: https://www.busybuttons.org/event-list

The event will be followed by the Windsor and Eton Living Advent Calendar, taking place from 6.15pm to 7.30pm.