Michael Leunig

Michael Leunig is a national treasure – one of those rare Australians we recognise by one name only.

Leunig is best loved as our wizard of whimsy, creator of quirky characters like Mr Curly, the duck and Vasco Pyjama. Asked how those creations were born, he says, ‘I felt maybe society lacked … some enchanting quality, little mysteries and little poetic elements’.

But he’s no stranger to controversy, either, standing by his provocative cartoons on infant childcare and Israel, and receiving hate mail in response to his strong stance against the Iraq war. Above all, Leunig is the cartoonist who has consistently chronicled contemporary Australian life as he sees it – applying liberal doses of mystery, joy and provocation.

In a special publishing event, he has selected 400 of his favourite cartoons, spanning his start in 1965 to the present day. This beautiful hardback, with author’s introduction, is a true collector’s edition. This evening will be a rare opportunity to watch one of our most beloved artists draw live – and to join him in looking back on his brilliant career.

Tweeting at this event? Use #Leunig.

Price includes admission to the event, your own copy of The Essential Leunig (RRP $50) and the opportunity to have it signed by Leunig.

Presented in partnership with Readings.