For generations of Australians, the sight of a pencil-nosed puppet with a twinkle in his eye meant pure, unadulterated fun. Mr. Squiggle, the beloved 'man from the moon,' has officially landed at the National Museum of Australia, marking a significant moment 65 years after he first graced our television screens.
It's more than just a puppet arriving in Canberra; it's an entire universe. The National Museum has acquired a remarkable collection, boasting the original Mr. Squiggle marionette alongside over 800 related treasures. Think fellow puppets like Blackboard, Rocket, Bill Steamshovel, and Gus the Snail, all brought to life by the genius of Norman Hetherington. We're talking about artworks, scripts, costumes, props, sets, production notes, merchandise, and even audio-visual material – a true time capsule of a national icon.
This collection is essentially the life's work of Norman Hetherington, a master puppeteer, cartoonist, artist, and performer. He was the creative force, the voice, and the heart behind 'Mr. Squiggle and Friends.' Katherine McMahon, the Director of the National Museum, couldn't hide her delight. She shared how Mr. Squiggle was a cherished part of her own childhood, inspiring countless young Australians to pick up a pencil and draw. The museum is eager to share this collection, offering parents and grandparents a chance to revisit their own memories and share them with their children.
Ms. McMahon also paid a heartfelt tribute to Norman's daughter, 'Miss Rebecca,' who was the last presenter of the show. Her decision to entrust this treasured collection to the National Museum ensures it remains intact and retains its unique character and significance. Rebecca Hetherington herself expressed immense happiness, describing her father as a one-of-a-kind individual who blended boundless artistic energy with technical skill, a strong work ethic, and a wonderfully imaginative spirit.
Dr. Sophie Jensen, a Senior Curator at the museum, who worked closely with Miss Hetherington, highlighted the collection's immense historical value. She sees it as a fascinating window into one of Australia's most original and creative minds, a testament to Hetherington's genius that delighted and inspired so many.
For those eager to see Mr. Squiggle in person, he and Rocket are on display at the National Museum from April 29th to May 16th, 2024. And there's more to come, with a larger exhibition featuring more of Mr. Squiggle's friends already in development. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate a true Australian legend and the enduring magic of his creations.
A Glimpse into Norman Hetherington's World
Norman Hetherington's journey was as colourful as his creations. Before becoming a household name with Mr. Squiggle, he served in the Army Entertainment Unit during World War II as a performer and cartoonist. He honed his skills as a cartoonist for The Bulletin from 1945 to 1961, a period that allowed him the creative freedom to explore his passion for puppetry. His involvement with the Methodist Order of Knights from 1948 to 1951 also saw him creating various performances. From the late 1940s onwards, he worked as a designer and illustrator for notable clients, all while nurturing his deep interest in puppetry. His connection with the Clovelly Puppet Theatre from 1952 onwards further solidified his expertise.
Collection Highlights
The collection itself is a treasure trove, featuring:
- The complete set of puppets from 'Mr. Squiggle and Friends,' including those from the very first show in July 1959.
- Scripts and the iconic 'squiggles' from Mr. Squiggle's impressive 40-year run.
- The Nicky and Noodle string puppets, which were part of the inaugural broadcast of ABC TV in 1956.