Always cheerful, children!

Always cheerful, children! is a bibliographic and interactive exhibition celebrating Lothar Meggendorfer, brilliant German illustrator and inventor of some of the most fascinating animated books of the late nineteenth century. The exhibition offers a rich journey through the history of pop-up books in Italy, with particular attention to the period between the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, through an engaging narrative, featuring original illustrations, fold-out plates, paper games and extremely rare vintage volumes.

The exhibition highlights the central role of Meggendorfer, author of over 160 books, whose technical skill and humour have influenced generations of artists. Visitors will be able to admire masterpieces such as Living Pictures, International Circus and discover intriguing Italian versions of his books. Special attention is given to Pierino the Living Porcupine, animated adaptation of Struwwelpeter, and the early days of animated books in Italy, including extremely rare volumes by Hoepli and works by Italian illustrators active in the early 20th century.

Via multimedia workstations With its immersive layout, the exhibition offers an experience suitable for all ages. It features reconstructions of work tables, interactive devices, videos and documents from archives and historical collections, such as the La Venaria Reale Conservation and Restoration Centre“, l'Albertina Academy and the Passoni Art School.

The exhibition is hosted inside the Pop-App Museum, MUSLI's new permanent space entirely dedicated to pop-up books, with a carefully curated and spectacular display that pays tribute to an art form that is as fascinating as it is surprising.