Neither Here Nor There: The Art of Oliver Jeffers

by Oliver Jeffers

Oliver Jeffers is a world famous illustrator and author of picture books for children. International bestsellers such as How to Catch a Star, Lost and Found, and The Incredible Book Eating Boy are not only beloved by children and parents alike, but are also highly acclaimed by critics and have won numerous respected awards. Oliver Jeffers's style of illustration uses mixed media and is recognized for its subtle narrative and use of space in composition. With his captivating images, which are sometimes accompanied by simple yet pithy texts, Jeffers tells deeply incisive stories. Neither Here Nor There presents the range of his creativity in illustration, painting, photography, and collage for the first time. Although some familiar motifs from his children's books do make appearances, this book consists primarily of work and sketches that have never before been seen by a broad audience--some of which feature a very adult form of humor. Oliver Jeffers was born in Australia in 1977, grew up in Northern Ireland, and currently lives in New York. His illustrations can be found regularly in publications such as the Guardian, Newsweek, the Irish Times, and Wired or in work for clients including Sony PSP, Starbucks, and United Airlines. From figurative painting and installation to illustration and picture-book making, his work has been exhibited in New York, Dublin, London, Sydney, Washington, DC, and Belfast.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Reference, Picture Books

160 pages, Hardcover

First published August 25, 2012

About the author

Oliver Jeffers' work takes many forms. His distinctive paintings have been exhibited in galleries worldwide, and HarperCollins UK and Penguin USA publish his award-winning picture books, now translated into over 30 languages.

In 2007, Jeffers was the official illustrator for World Book Day, and in 2008 Lost and Found became Oliver's first book to made into animation by London-based Studio AKA.

Jeffers won a NY Emmy in 2010 for his collaborative work with the artist and director Mac Premo, and in 2013 Jeffers co-directed the video for U2's Ordinary Love with Premo. Originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, Jeffers now lives and works in Brooklyn, New York.

Reviews

[NESTA TOYS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Neither Here Nor There offers a captivating glimpse into the multifaceted artistry of Oliver Jeffers, renowned for his beloved children's books. This monograph, published by Gestalten in 2012, showcases Jeffers' diverse creative endeavors, including illustration, painting, photography, and collage, many of which were previously unseen by the public .
While familiar motifs from his children's literature occasionally appear, the collection primarily delves into more mature themes, reflecting Jeffers' fine art practice . The book features a preface by editor Richard Seabrooke and an introduction by artist Mac Premo, providing insightful context to Jeffers' work .
Neither Here Nor There is a testament to Jeffers' versatility and depth as an artist. It reveals a more introspective side, exploring philosophical questions and personal narratives through compelling visuals. For fans familiar with his children's books, this collection offers a deeper understanding of the artist's broader creative vision.

In summary, Neither Here Nor There is a beautifully curated volume that highlights Oliver Jeffers' expansive artistic range. It's an essential read for those interested in contemporary art and illustration, offering a profound exploration of themes beyond his well-known children's stories.

[NZBook Girl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've done a huge amount of study on Oliver Jeffers picture books so this was a complete treasure trove on a whole other level, with his non-children's work, but work that closely links with what he's done for his books. Everything feeds into everything else, which is of course just how it should be.

[Robin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mathy art goodness.

[Funkystar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice coffee table book containing a collection of artwork created by Oliver Jeffers from 2004-2012. Perfect for someone who likes his work but hasn’t been able to buy his limited addition prints or paintings. The artwork doesn’t include any of his children book illustrations this is aimed at adults.

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

For: fans of Jeffers and/or art.

Possible red flags: readers should not expect more of what they know from Jeffers's picture book art, as this is much more adult in theme (not graphic, but not kid-focused)

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Oliver Jeffer's children's books. I didn't know he did anything other than children's book before i discovered this book.

I have to say, his artwork is interesting for sure. I'm not much of a math person, I ended up googling some of the equations & formulas that were present in his artwork. I like the idea of duality, I wouldn't have thought about it in the math sense (i've only been exposed to linguistic & literary duality); it's pretty cool.

[Staggerlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

His "Other" Art. What he does when not creating some of the best kids books written and illustrated in the last 20 years.

[Vania · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Oliver Jeffers' art. And this book is just amazing. Just lovely. GO GET IT!