Here Is What You Missed From the Good Grief, Charlie Brown! Exihition
Didn’t make it to the Good Grief, Charlie Brown! exhibition at Somerset House? Today I thought I’d give you the lowdown on what you could have seen.
Whether it’s Snoopy, Charlie Brown or Peppermint Patty, we’ve all identified with the Peanuts characters at some time or another.
So with this in mind, when I heard my favourite riverside arts hub was putting together a selection of the best of Schulz and Peanuts, I knew I had to be there as soon as I could find my comfort blanket.
The first space included background info on creator Charles M. Schulz, focusing on his background sketches, interviews and props that inspired some of the comics – like his old ice-skates, planners and his surprisingly simple drawing tools and equipment.
Next up was a time line with what influenced his stories and how he influenced us. There was a set of letters that led him to introduce Franklin the first African American character, popularising the concept of a security blanket and LOTS of merchandise.
I loved learning more about the characters, stories and moments that have inspired children and adults for generations. I think I was always too focused on Snoopy and Woodstock because it didn’t occur to me that the comics covered themes like feminism, war and mental health. Which might be the reason why they don’t seem outdated at all.
In addition to all the info and comic displays there were interactive elements, such as a cinema room filled with bean bags to be lounged on while enjoying the cartoons, light boxes with stencils where you got to trace and create your own comic and vast selections of compilation comic books that you could read.
Overall, Somerset House managed to pull off another great exhibition, giving fans and newcomers alike a chance to step into the wonderful world of creator Schulz and his Peanuts squad. Sadly the exhibition isn’t traversing the world, but if you’re ever in Santa Rosa in California, the Schulz museum is probably the best place for a slice of Peanuts.