This issue of The Museum is inspired by the whimsical world of Norman Hetherington, creator of the iconic Mr Squiggle – the beloved puppet with a pencil for a nose. Join us as we explore the magic of play, with a special focus on Hetherington’s creative legacy and his delightful cast of characters. The issue also serves as a companion to our major winter exhibition Mr Squiggle and Friends.

Contents include:

Sophie Jensen speaks with Rebecca Hetherington – Norman’s daughter and Mr Squiggle’s final on-screen companion – about her father’s legacy and the remarkable collection of puppets he created, now housed in the Museum’s collection. 

Coen Ramalli traces Norman Hetherington’s early path, from his military service entertaining the troops in the Second World War to drawing cartoons for The Bulletin, and finally to creating Mr Squiggle – the beloved children’s program that ran for four decades.

Danielle Cassar and Martha Sear introduce us to Norman’s colourful cast, from Mr Squiggle himself to the dependable Rocket and good-hearted Bill Steamshovel.

Karen Hethey speaks of working with First Nations Elders and communities to co-create puppets and bring Country, songlines and storytelling to life.

Laura Cook delves into the Museum's broader collection to examine the rich inner lives of children through the toys they once owned.

Suzanne Gibson and Henry Buckenham show how the nation’s biggest stories can shape the lives of its smallest people through key objects from the Museum's newly redeveloped Landmarks gallery.

Kate Morshel reflects on nostalgia and what it can tell us about childhood, memory and connection – and its role in museum practice and interpretation.

Nicole McLennan revisits The Magic Pudding and the theatre puppets it inspired – now held in the Museum’s National Historical Collection.

Candace Richards journeys through the history of board games – from ancient Egypt and China to modern day Monopoly, Elizabeth Magie’s pointed critique of capitalism.

ISSN 2200-2472
96 pages
National Museum of Australia July 2025
Cover: Mr Squiggle by Norman Hetherington

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