Dick Bruna

Dick Bruna was born on August 23, 1927 in Utrecht, The Netherlands, where he worked as a graphic designer and author. He stopped working in 2011, and died on 16 February, 2017 in Utrecht. His books for children are known all over the world and have been translated into more than 50 languages, including Japanese, English, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Greek and Swedish. Dick Bruna’s style is recognizable - from his first book ‘the apple’ (1953) up to his latest book ‘grunty and miffy’s ears’ (2011) - by its simplicity and universal sincerity. This simplicity leaves space for every child’s imagination. Dick Bruna’s work consists of simple black outlines and strong, vibrant colours. His sturdy hand-drawn lines convey warmth and strength of purpose, combined with a delicate touch. “(…) I would not want to patronize children by my books, instead I try to share the true wonder of their world (…)” Dick Bruna’s stories on miffy, boris bear, snuffy and poppy pig give expression to the everyday life of a growing child.