Samedi 2 Fevrier Musee du Jouets de Poissy
You don't expect to fall in love ❤️ at 5am in the morning online. I was browsing cookbook author Rachel Khoo’s newsletter and a French illustrator she likes caught my eye 👁️ A special exhibition of his work was at the Musee du Jouets in Poissy outside Paris. I had to go no questions asked.
Bear, who's been quiet this trip, gave a whoop of joie at the chance to meet his French bear 🐻 ancestors
But it was on to the newly discovered objet of my obsession: illustrator André Hellé (1871-1945).
Hellé not only created masses of illustrated books and journals but charming wooden toys to match. His line of toys and books was much sought after and particularly made for Le Bon Marché and grand magazine Printemps.
There's a modernistic feel to Helle's art..
Simple, graphic, brilliant color plus an inherent wit.
I wish I could show you more.
A child's bedroom at that time could be all-Hellé including wallpaper, furnishings, books and toys!
With accompanying music playing by Debussy from the ballet, 'La Boite a Joujou'.
Helle designed costumes and sets in collaboration with him for his little girl, Emma-Claude, nicknamed Chouchou
If you're visiting Paris and love toys the musee du Jouets is a mere 20 minutes ride on the RER A5 (last stop) + a short walk from the station to
1, Enclos de l'Abbaye Poissy
Open everyday except Monday
9:30-12 and 2 - 5:30
It's a mini adventure well worth making IMHO.
The Andre Helle exhibit is on till 9 juin.
BONNE JOURNEE!
