Witness History The creation of Miffy
Nov 5, 2025
Dick Bruna, the Dutch author and illustrator behind the beloved Miffy, shares fascinating insights from his creative journey. He recalls how his bold, simple style initially faced skepticism from parents, though children embraced it. Bruna discusses his artistic influences from Picasso to Matisse and how he crafted books for small hands using bright, primary colors. He reveals his storytelling approach for young readers, emphasizes inclusivity in Miffy’s world, and recounts the meticulous process behind every book.
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Parents Rejected The Modern Look
- Dick Bruna recalled mothers rejecting his bold colours and modern designs when he first showed Miffy books.
- Children, however, immediately loved the simple bright palette and shapes.
Art Roots And A Publisher's Path
- Bruna traced his interest in art back to childhood and named Picasso, Léger and Matisse as early influences.
- His father steered him toward publishing, sending him to England and France to learn the trade.
Books As Toys For Very Young Children
- Bruna designed books as toys first: small, durable and tactile for very young children.
- He simplified shapes and reduced size to suit tiny hands and early reading stages.
