The May Gibbs Foundation, the legacy of Australian Children’s author May Gibbs, this month launches a new online store at maygibbs.org to cater to the burgeoning interest in the classic author’s work, and to raise funds for Cerebral Palsy research.

For the start of this financial year, Merchantwise, managers of the May Gibbs Foundation, have launched a landmark online store to feed the ever-increasing demand for the artwork, books, and merchandise of the famed Australian author.  The launch comes as a response to demand for art prints, homewares, clothing and gifts sporting May Gibbs characters and images. MayGibbs.org is a registered not-for-profit organisation. All profits benefit the charities nominated by May Gibbs during her lifetime.

Bringing the World of May Gibbs to Future Generations

May Gibbs was a prolific writer and artist in the early 20th century, producing some of Australia’s most beloved literary characters, including the iconic duo, Snugglepot and Cuddlepie.  For more than one hundred years, May Gibbs’ works have been part of the Australian childhood experience. In the last five years, demand for May Gibbs’ work has increased exponentially but lacked a central location for the purchase of officially licensed items.  

“We’ve been inundated with requests from parents, grandparents, and educators to provide a central place for access to products featuring May’s timeless illustrations and beloved bush babies. In response, MayGibbs.org is proudly curating a beautiful collection for our customers,” said Rosalie May, May Gibbs brand manager and lifelong May Gibbs devotee.

Continued Support for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance

The May Gibbs legacy includes redistributing royalties from her books, artwork, and characters to not-for-profit activities. e.g. aid in Cerebral Palsy research and support services via the Cerebral Palsy Alliance.  Profits from the new online store will be directed to the organisation.

May Gibbs was a pioneering Australian woman, among the few to contribute to news publications and show in art exhibitions.  She’s remembered not only as a beloved Australian children’s author but an influential early feminist and political commentator.