One never forgets Peter Rabbit. His brass buttons. His siblings Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-Tail. The fact that his father was put into a pie. Peter Rabbit is the creation of Beatrix Potter, who was born in London in 1866, and before writing children’s books worked in the field of mycology, illustrating fungi with watercolors. Potter’s family was well off and nature loving. She and her younger brother were taught by governesses and kept numerous small animals as pets, including her own rabbit Peter Piper. In 1902, The Tale of Peter Rabbit was published and propelled Potter to worldwide stardom. After Peter, she produced 23 more children’s stories, charming and beloved. In this exhibition, personal ephemera and stunning illustrations make for a fun jaunt. Don’t forget to bring the kids! —E.C.

Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature was featured in the February 12, 2022 issue of Air Mail. Read on