Exploring the Hidden Lives of Collectors Through Illustrated Pages

A new picture book titled Collector’s Street, produced by the London-based publisher Owl & Dog Playbooks, invites readers to delve into the intricate lives of collectors. The collaborative effort features South Korean illustrator Yooree Ko, who brings to life the eccentricities of various characters and their unique collections.

Owl & Dog Playbooks, founded by designers Yeonju Yang and Claudio Ripol, aims to create playful literature for children. The idea for Collector’s Street took shape after discovering how the format of fold-out flaps could perfectly mimic the act of peeking into homes. “Each character’s obsession unfolds as a new layer of their story,” explains Claudio.

Yooree Ko, who illustrated the book using Procreate and Photoshop, describes her creative process as akin to being a miniature homemaker. By constructing each room digitally, she captures the essence of a home as a reflection of individual desires and fantasies. “A home is not just a structure; it embodies personal interests and dreams,” she notes.

The book celebrates the natural human inclination to collect, with Yang and Ripol’s own collections of mid-century toys and die-cast cars serving as inspirations. For Yooree, the allure of British homes lies in their mystery. “Walking past houses and imagining the lives behind their windows stimulates my imagination,” she says, reflecting on how these observations fuel her creativity.

Integrated within the book’s pages are vibrant illustrations that reveal intimate glimpses into the lives of characters, showcasing artist studios, living rooms, and even theatres. Yeonju emphasizes the aim of inspiring children to explore their surroundings through architecture, a passion evident from their previous works.

In a delightful anecdote, Yooree recalls her curiosity about a hidden area in a Brixton second-hand bookshop, pondering what secrets might lie behind closed doors. “That kind of mystery always sparks my imagination,” she reveals, hinting at potential inspirations for her future projects.

Source: www.itsnicethat.com