Peter Pan is the fairies’ orchestra 1913

Curator: Here we have Arthur Rackham's watercolour illustration, "Peter Pan is the fairies' orchestra," created in 1913. Editor: A musical interlude in the fairy realm, wouldn't you say? It strikes me as quite intimate and a touch mischievous. Peter Pan looks more like a cherubic imp there perched upon the toadstools. Curator: Rackham’s illustrations of this period contributed significantly to defining the visual culture surrounding childhood fantasy and fairytales. His Peter Pan illustrations are central to the imagery of that story. This piece utilizes coloured pencil, a method common among illustrators trying to meet demands in the market for mass production. Editor: Absolutely. It's a far cry from the more polished, overtly romantic depictions we sometimes see in fairy art. This is quirkier, maybe even hinting at darker undertones with those goblin-esque creatures capering about. It is also, dare I say, kind of kooky! The work almost glows in the moonlight. What do you suppose is Rackham hinting at with the symbolism, in your eyes? Curator: Rackham, while working in a symbolist tradition, grounds his work within social issues, so these “kooky” qualities you are talking about may have been him connecting with some audience. Remember, symbolism emerged as a reaction against industrialisation and materialism. Editor: That’s such a great insight! This piece makes me want to climb a tree, or perhaps write a short poem in its honour... there's a quiet magic in those watercolours that captures a wild, imaginative energy. Curator: The success of Rackham came from this connection between commercial success and deeper insights on modern life. I encourage you to seek more about his works if this illustration spoke to you. Editor: Likewise! Thank you for pointing me towards these insightful directions!