The Fairy Circus 1931

This is Dorothy Lathrop's book cover for *The Fairy Circus*, and it's a masterclass in art that invites you in. I love how the copper ink bounces off the orangey-red paper! It creates a warm, inviting surface that pulls you right into this magical world. There’s something about the way the copper catches the light, it brings a sense of otherworldliness. The fairies riding atop the turtle, they appear with such intricacy that they shimmer with fantastical elegance. The black of the margins grounds the composition in dark contrast. It's like Lathrop is whispering secrets, creating a mood that makes you lean in. This isn't just illustration, it’s about creating a space for possibility. It reminds me of some of Walter Crane's playful illustrations. In both artists' work, you find this combination of intricate detail with a sense of open-ended narrative, suggesting art is an ongoing exchange of ideas. It's like art is saying, "Come on in, let’s play!"