Art History

Art Reflections

Dr. Seuss’s Horse Museum, a Guide to Art History by Famed Children’s Author

Dr. Seuss is a beloved children’s author who wrote classics such as The Cat in the Hat and The Grinch that Stole Christmas. His real name was Theodore Geisel and he started his career as a political cartoonist before moving on to the rhyming children’s book that would make him a legend. Considering his deep devotion to art, it seems appropriate that his last book be based on an art history lesson.

This book was one of two that have been published on the author’s behalf post-mortem. The other, What Pet Should I Get? was published in 2015. They were both discovered in La Jolla, California by Dr. Seuss’s wife while looking through the remainder his belongings. Most of his unfinished work had been donated after his death in 1991, but a few boxes were overlooked, including the one containing this partially finished manuscript. The book titled Dr. Seuss’s Horse Museum, was completed by another illustrator who used Dr. Seuss’s unfinished texts and sketches.

The new book is about a horse that leads children through an art museum full of famous paintings with an equine theme. The book opens by asking “What is it all about?” in relation to art and the interpretation of it over time. The friendly horse curator gives children a tour that depicts a wide variety of styles and art movements, all linked together by the use of the horse as a subject. It is a great way to introduce children to the fundamental qualities of art.

Among the artists featured in the book is Katsushika Hokusai, painter of the Great Wave and Edvard Munch who is best known for The Scream. There is also Franz Marc who was famous for his Expressionist works. Using the horse as a universal subject, the children in the book can compare the works of artists like Edouard Manet and George Seurat. The long list of artists that have been included in this small children’s book make it comprehensive by most standards.

Art is a beautiful part of life and children should begin to learn about it at a young age. This book by the famous Dr. Seuss is a great way to introduce them to the topic. They will love the colorful illustrations of art and the easy to read text. It covers enough information to be an asset to even an adult who wants to broaden their art knowledge. Bring some fun art history into your home today!