Leeds City Museum is inviting visitors to step into the charming world of Miffy, the beloved bunny created by Dutch artist Dick Bruna, as they celebrate a very special milestone: Miffy’s 70th birthday.
This unique exhibition, free to the public, offers an immersive experience into the simple yet captivating universe of one of the world’s most iconic children’s characters. Originally sketched in 1955 to entertain his young son on a rainy holiday, Dick Bruna’s Miffy has since blossomed into a global phenomenon, known and loved for her adventures through beautifully minimalist picture books. The Leeds City Museum’s exhibition brings these stories to life with giant versions of some of Miffy’s most popular books. Visitors can walk through large-scale, interactive displays that recreate scenes from the books, allowing fans of all ages to physically step into and interact with the illustrations and narratives.
The exhibition is designed to be interactive, encouraging children and adults alike to engage with the elements that made Miffy a household name. Guests can play hide and seek among the trees in Miffy’s forest, and use puppets, drawings, and colors to create their own stories in an inspired creative space. These activities not only celebrate the joy and simplicity of Miffy’s world but also promote literacy and creativity in young visitors.
The concept for this celebratory exhibition was sparked in 2022 after Leeds Museums and Galleries received a prestigious European award for its educational programs. This accolade was marked by the gift of a bronze Miffy sculpture created by Dick Bruna’s youngest son, Marc Bruna, symbolizing the ongoing influence and legacy of the Miffy series.
Miffy’s appeal lies in her universal themes of friendship, innocence, and fun, wrapped in a minimalist design that has transcended generations. The exhibition not only honors these themes but also highlights how Miffy has become synonymous with innovative design and cultural impact.
Matt Storey, Leeds City Museum’s principal keeper said:
“It’s a real joy to welcome such a world-famous character to Leeds and for the museum to be playing an important part in celebrating 70 years of both Miffy and Dick Bruna’s unique art, life and legacy. As well as marking a huge milestone for Miffy, the exhibition is a great chance for families to come together at the museum and step into a world of play and imagination which they can explore and be inspired by.”
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“This exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for different generations to come together at the museum and celebrate a character who has been a part of so many childhoods all across the world. Leeds City Museum is the ideal place for such a family-friendly exhibition and we’re really looking forward to welcoming families in the coming months.”
Leeds City Museum’s exhibition is a must-visit for fans of Miffy, as well as those new to her stories. It offers a rare opportunity to explore the enduring appeal of a character that has delighted children and adults for seven decades. The museum invites everyone to come and experience the magic of Miffy, celebrate her significant birthday, and perhaps leave inspired to carry a bit of Miffy’s simplicity and joy into their own lives.
The Miffy exhibition at Leeds City Museum is open from February 7 to September 7, 2025, and admission is free. Throughout the February half-term, the museum will host a series of Miffy-themed events and activities. Additionally, a special celebration is planned for Miffy’s official birthday in June.
Following its stint in Leeds, the exhibition will relocate to the Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life. For more information, please visit www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk
