The beloved children’s book character, Madeline, is celebrating her 75th anniversary! From July 4 through October 19 the New-York Historical Society will present an exhibit devoted to the author, Ludwig Bemelmans, and the classic Madeline books.
Madeline stories are brought to life through original paintings displayed throughout the exhibit. There are crayon and watercolor pictures, oil paintings, black ink, and many more different works of art.
Friday, July 4 is opening day and family day! From 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. children’s admission will be free!
The museum offers an audio guide for families throughout Madeline in New York: The Art of Ludwig Bemelmans. Each of the 14 stops is narrated, and at the last stop you will be able to hear the voice of Ludwig Bemelmans.
Along with the audio guide, the museum is also hosting Madeline-themed tea parties and birthday parties! The Tea parties take place on selected dates throughout the months of July through October in the Café (located in the museum). Throughout the 2-hour time frame, there will be readings of favorite Madeline books.
Birthday parties at the New-York Historical Society take place throughout the year, but the institution has designed a special one to go along with this exhibit. No more than 10 people per party are invited to sit at a special table. A Madeline cake will be served along with a goodie bag and story time.
Author, Ludwig Bemelmans, was born and bred in the hotel industry, which was his inspiration behind these children’s books, along with his mother’s childhood stories.
Ludwig Bemelmans had a way of putting a comedic spin on difficult times. “Madeline was therapy in the dark hours,” Ludwig Bemelmans had said. He persevered throughout his lifetime. He has created magazine covers, cartoons, and advertisements (which are displayed in the exhibit). He loved to entertain, and he most definitely did with Madeline.
For more information about the show, visit nyhistory.org.
