When a new baby arrives in Canberra, there's often an unspoken race among family and friends to find that perfect, memorable gift that stands out from the rest. Now, one local artist has made that search considerably easier with a delightful new addition to any nursery.
Canberra Through a Baby's Eyes
Trevor Dickinson, the creative mind behind Canberra's iconic bus shelter artworks, has released his first baby book titled My First Book of Canberra, perfectly timed for the Christmas gift-giving season. The book features the artist's distinctive style while being specially designed for tiny hands and developing minds.
The publication uses thick cardboard pages that can withstand enthusiastic chewing and handling by infants, while the bright, colourful illustrations capture their attention. Dickinson has maintained his artistic integrity while adapting the content for its youngest audience, using simple, clear words that babies can understand and eventually repeat.
In this charming introduction to the nation's capital, complex landmarks become accessible concepts for little learners. The light rail transforms into "red train", Telstra Tower becomes "high tower", and the Belconnen Owl is simply "Big Owl". The distinctive Shine Dome appears as "round building", while structures at the Tent Embassy are described as "rectangle building".
More Than Just a Baby Book
"It's designed for introducing babies to Canberra's finest locations," Dickinson explained. "I've been thinking about doing this for a few years, and finally got around to it in August."
The baby book isn't Dickinson's only recent project celebrating Canberra. He has also completed his 2026 Canberra calendar, which features a new drawing of the Australian War Memorial at sunset, including the recent addition of the glass oculus.
True to his style of capturing everyday Canberra scenes, the calendar includes some unexpected local favourites. Kingsley's Chicken in Belconnen earns a spot, with Dickinson noting the appeal of "unbelievable chicken ... awesome chips." Another new addition to the calendar collection is Deakin's distinctive blue Kent Street overpass crossing Adelaide Avenue.
Where to Find This Perfect Canberra Gift
Although Dickinson is based in Newcastle and won't be appearing at Canberra markets before Christmas, his creations remain accessible to capital residents. All his merchandise, including the new baby book and 2026 calendar, is available online through his website at www.newcastleproductionsart.com.
For Canberra families seeking that perfect first Christmas gift for a new arrival, or for relatives looking for a meaningful present that connects babies to their hometown from the earliest age, Dickinson's creation offers a unique solution that celebrates the city in language its youngest residents can understand.
