Cambridge Edition January 2022 - Web

CULTURE CLUB

LUCY VAN PELT

Since her Peanuts debut in 1952, Lucy Van Pelt has become recognised as one of the most famous – and formidable – characters of the cartoon world. Her unwavering self- belief and unapologetic style provide the perfect counterbalance to protagonist Charlie Brown’s self-doubt and anxious nature; with the interactions between the duo shedding light on many pre-teen preoccupations. The stories resonated with readers around the world, earning the beloved comic strip series a reputation as a timeless classic. Lucy Van Pelt: Director of Everything celebrates the enduring legacy of the character and the work of series creator Charles M. Schulz, showcasing a selection of original comic strips, objects and line art from the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center. It also offers a chance to see photographs of the artist throughout his life. Peanuts began in 1950 and ran for half a century, during which time Charles M. Schulz created 17,897 daily and Sunday strips. Its continued success owes much to its consistent format, complex characters and ability to combine serious themes with a good dose of humour. You can find the display at the Heong Gallery, nestled just within the gates of Downing College, until 6 February. THE HEONG GALLERY’S LATEST EXHIBITION SHINES A LIGHT ON ONE OF THE LEADING LADIES OF THE MUCH-LOVED PEANUTS COMIC STRIP SERIES Director of Everything

© CHARLES M. SCHULZ MUSEUM AND RESEARCH CENTER

NOSTALGIC IMAGES Charles M. Schulz sitting behind his drafting table working on a Peanuts strip, 1969 (top); Peanut strip (middle); Charles M. Schulz poses at a drawing table with his left arm resting along the edge of a page of four ‘Li’l Folks’ panels, 1948 (bottom) – all courtesy of the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center. ‘Lucy for First Lady’ postcard, 1970 – courtesy of the Hallmark Archives, Hallmark Cards, Inc., Kansas City, Missouri, US (left)

18 JANUARY 2022 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

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