Established in 1993 as A Project of National Significance, the Centre is housed in the superbly restored Fremantle Prison Hospital.
There are four full exhibitions of Australian picture books on display each school term. The exhibitions comprise the original artwork, as well as material from the illustrator and author including preliminary sketches, storyboards, reference materials, draft manuscripts and correspondence. Workshops are held in conjunction with each exhibition for both children and adults.
The general public has the opportunity to view the exhibitions, meet local and interstate authors and illustrators and purchase books and artwork during our Open Days and at other events held throughout the year.