Graphic art on display

Original artworks from acclaimed Broome graphic novelist Brenton McKenna’s trilogy, Ubby’s Underdogs, will be displayed at the State Library of Victoria in 2014.

As part of a generous bequest from Australia’s National Centre for Picture Book Art, Dromkeen, McKenna’s work has been purchased and donated to the library, along with 7000 items from the Dromkeen Collection.

Established in 1973, Dromkeen has housed a collection of original illustrations, artworks and manuscripts from Australian children’s picture books.

Last week, Dromkeen director John Oldmeadow visited McKenna in Broome and said he was delighted to have acquired McKenna’s work for donation.

“The Dromkeen Collection has always been committed to supporting, encouraging and assisting children’s artists and authors,” he said.

“As Australia’s first indigenous Australian graphic novel, Brenton’s work is unique and we are really excited to have this as our last purchase.”

McKenna said he was stunned by the announcement, which cemented his success as an indigenous graphic novelist.

Having grown up with comics since childhood, McKenna pursued his dream of becoming a graphic novelist, unaware he would achieve such success.

He started working on his first novel, Ubby’s Underdogs, a trilogy published by Magabala Books, eight years ago in Adelaide, with the vision to reach local children. “(Growing up) I learnt a lot from comic books,” he said.

“And I hoped kids would also be able to pick up my comic books, see and learn from them.”

The project became pivotal in McKenna’s life. He juggled fatherhood and family life at the time, and said “every page had a story”.

McKenna said he wanted to inspire the next generation of young graphic novelists to pursue their dreams.