Tomi Ungerer

Tomi Ungerer was a celebrated illustrator, writer, and artist known for his thought-provoking and often controversial works. Born in Strasbourg, France, he grew up in a bilingual household with Alsatian and German as his first languages. He developed an early love of drawing and storytelling and began creating his own books as a child.

Ungerer's childhood was interrupted by World War II, during which his family faced persecution due to their German heritage. After the war, he moved to Paris to pursue his art career. There, he quickly gained recognition as an illustrator and became a sought-after contributor to magazines and newspapers.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Ungerer began creating children's books, which would become some of his most beloved works. His unique style combined whimsical illustrations with dark humor and social commentary, tackling themes such as war, politics, and the human condition. Some of his most popular children's books include "The Three Robbers," "Moon Man," and "The Beast of Monsieur Racine."

In addition to his children's books, Ungerer also created satirical cartoons and adult books, often featuring explicit content and political commentary. He was an outspoken critic of war and militarism, and his work often reflected his opposition to the Vietnam War and other conflicts.

Ungerer's art was exhibited in galleries around the world, and he received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the arts. In 1998, he was awarded the Hans Christian Andersen Award for his lasting contributions to children's literature.

Throughout his life, Ungerer remained a prolific artist and writer, creating works in a variety of mediums. He passed away in 2019 at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important and innovative artists of his time.