In March 2026, following three stages of rigours peer review, eight of my sketchbooks were acquired by the V&A. The sketchbooks, which contain work used for the first ten issues of the Future Fantasteek zine series, will be housed in the museum’s Prints and Drawings collection alongside the likes of Rembrandt, Damien Hirst and Beatrix Potter.
Speaking of the acquisition, Annemarie Bilclough (Curator of Illustration at the V&A) said “The V&A is delighted to confirm acceptance of these striking sketchbooks, which make a valuable addition to our large illustration collection in a range of processes, as well as forming a fascinating visual diary and snapshot of a decade of life in Britain in the 2000s.”
By highlighting the importance of traditional artistic processes and the centrality of the sketchbook to illustrative practice, I hope my work underscores the significance of human made art in an era of wherein more and more visual practitioners are threatened by an increasing reliance on AI.
When not on display in the Museum or loaned to another institution, Jac’s sketchbooks will be available to view on request in the V&As Prints and Drawings Study Room.
When not on display in the Museum or loaned to another institution, Jac’s sketchbooks will be available to view on request in the V&As Prints and Drawings Study Room.
Link to V&A collections listing
