Kiddipedia
In the heart of every Australian, there’s a special place reserved for the enchanting and delightfully imaginative world of May Gibbs. As one of Australia’s most treasured illustrators, artists, and children’s authors, May Gibbs is best known for her iconic children’s books featuring the beloved characters Snugglepot and Cuddlepie.
Having captured the hearts and imaginations of generations of Australians since 1916, May Gibbs not only created these cherished characters but also illustrated them, showcasing her true creative genius. Her imagination brought to life a magical world of bush fantasy, captivating the hearts and minds of countless children.
Excitingly, Jellystone Designs has launched its first collaboration with May Gibbs, creating four gorgeous products together—a love letter to Australia’s flora and fauna. Embracing the timeless charm of May Gibbs and Jellystone Designs’ innovative spirit, this range, inspired by May Gibbs’ beloved characters, offers a nostalgic journey for parents and grandparents alike.
For new parents, sharing these iconic stories with their babies will help rekindle cherished childhood memories and create a heartwarming bond across generations. As a beautiful gift for a new bub or mum from grandparents, friends or relatives, gifting this range as a present will help all to experience the joy of passing down a legacy of imagination and wonder, reliving treasured moments from their past.
Introducing the May Gibbs X Jellystone Designs Collection
With a mutual love for outdoor adventure, this beautifully crafted Australiana-themed collection has been joyfully designed to engage, soothe, and ignite young imaginations. Infused with the calming colour palette of May Gibbs’ illustrations, the range features colours reflecting the Australian bushland’s natural beauty. From earthy tones such as greens, browns, and ochres representing flora and fauna of the bush to vibrant hues mirroring the colourful blossoms of native Australian flowers and the vivid sky and sea, these colours come together harmoniously to create a visually captivating and distinctly Australian aesthetic in May Gibbs’ artworks.
Let’s now take a closer look at this enchanting range.
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May Gibbs Stacker & Teether Toy: A Symphony of Playfulness and Relief
Imbued with the timeless charm of May Gibbs’ illustrations, the Stacker & Teether Toy is not just adorable—it’s a versatile and multi-purpose marvel. It’s a soothing companion for teething tots, with each teething ring offering relief to tender gums with its safe and chewable silicone. As your little explorer grows, it transforms into a stacker toy, nurturing hand-eye coordination, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Every twist and turn of this toy is a step into the imaginative world of May Gibbs, where learning and fun dance go hand in hand.
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May Gibbs Dummy Clip: Where Practicality Meets Whimsy
Say goodbye to misplaced dummies with the May Gibbs Dummy Clip, a blend of charm and functionality. Made from soft fabric and food-grade silicone, this clip ensures your baby’s dummy stays close and clean during adventures. Its easy attachment to clothing makes it a must-have accessory for outings, keeping comfort and convenience at your fingertips. And when it needs a refresh, a quick wash in warm, soapy water is all that’s needed.
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May Gibbs Moon Teether: Nature’s Soothing Embrace
Teething troubles meet their match with the May Gibbs Moon Teether, a gentle remedy crafted with care. Combining a beech wood teething ring and textured silicone, it provides relief to sore gums while stimulating sensory exploration. The natural antibacterial properties of beech wood ensure a safe chewing experience, while the captivating design reflects the spirit of May Gibbs’ bushland tales. Provide comfort and joy to your little one with this teether’s delightful colours and textures.
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May Gibbs DIY Calm Down Bottle: A Mesmerising Sensory Adventure
Embrace creativity and calm with the May Gibbs DIY Calm Down Bottle, a sensory marvel inspired by nature’s wonders. This interactive bottle invites children into a world of mindfulness and imaginative play, featuring Australiana-themed crafts that enchant and soothe. Simply add water to create a mesmerising sensory experience where colours swirl and imagination blooms. Refillable and reusable, it’s a gift that keeps giving, sparking moments of wonder and relaxation.
A little about May Gibbs
May Gibbs (1877 – 1969) remains a cherished figure in Australia. She is celebrated as an illustrious illustrator, artist, and author whose enchanting bush fantasy world has captivated generations. Her creations have woven a uniquely Australian folklore deeply ingrained in the nation’s cultural fabric. In her own words, she found immense joy in knowing that countless children delighted in her books, each page bringing her imaginative world to life like a perpetual fairy tale.
Born Cecilia May Gibbs in England on January 17, 1877, she embarked on a transformative journey to Australia aboard the Hesperus at the tender age of four. Settling initially in South Australia and later at Harvey Cattle Station in Western Australia before finding a permanent home in Perth at ‘The Dunes,’ May Gibbs spent her formative years immersed in the breathtaking beauty of the Australian bush. This early connection with nature sowed the seeds of inspiration that would blossom into her iconic bushland tales.
From her childhood exploring the outback on her pony ‘Brownie’ to her prolific artistic endeavours, May Gibbs’ creative flair blossomed. She demonstrated a remarkable talent for botanical drawings, winning her first art prize at the Perth Wild Flower Show at just fifteen years old. This began a series of accolades throughout the 1890s, showcasing her burgeoning artistic prowess.
May Gibbs’ legacy extends beyond her artistic achievements. She was a trailblazer, recognised as one of Australia’s first professional female cartoonists and caricaturists, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of women in the field. Her debut book, “Gumnut Babies,” published in 1916, marked the beginning of her literary journey, followed by the timeless classic “Snugglepot and Cuddlepie” in 1918. These works, along with numerous others, including her beloved gumnut baby-themed tales, have stood the test of time, enchanting readers young and old alike.
Beyond her literary and artistic contributions, May Gibbs’ botanical illustrations remain a testament to her deep connection with Australia’s flora. Her captivating depictions of indigenous plants have inspired fellow artists and nature enthusiasts, leaving an indelible mark on the appreciation of Australian flora and fauna.
Cecilia May Gibbs MBE’s legacy endures as a beacon of creativity, imagination, and a profound love for the Australian bush—a legacy cherished by generations and an everlasting tribute to the magic of storytelling and artistry.
Who are Snugglepot and Cuddlepie?
Snugglepot and Cuddlepie stand as iconic figures born from the creative genius of May Gibbs, who are celebrated for their whimsical charm and delightful escapades amidst the Australian bush. Snugglepot, with his signature pointy hat and wide-eyed curiosity, exudes a gentle nature that draws readers into his enchanting world. In contrast, Cuddlepie’s friendly demeanour and adventurous streak add a dynamic element to their duo, creating a perfect balance of wonder and excitement. Together, they embody the essence of childhood innocence, embarking on imaginative journeys that unfold amidst the natural wonders of their bushland home. Their tales brim with friendship, imagination, and a profound sense of wonder, enchanting readers of all ages and leaving an indelible mark on the collective imagination of generations.
To embrace May Gibbs’ timeless charm and Jellystone Designs’ innovative spirit, be sure to check out their range here.
Media kindly brought to you by Jellystone Designs
