We’re often asked about the artist behind Percy, our playful and kind B4 mascot. Percy was designed by Leanne Bock, who also happens to be very playful and marvellously kind. There’s a lot to love about Leanne’s body of work, her joyful mark making, and fearless exploration of form and function showcase the secret and beautiful lives of often, mundane objects and places that may not ordinarily garner a second look as we pass them by day after day, after day …
Percy’s look and design are often key in engaging people for the first time with the B4
story. Recently when attending a HealthLit Expo at Bowen Road Primary School, we kept being told that folks wanted to come to our table in particular because it was so colourful and engaging.
Percy was also a wonderful conversation starter, his image adorning our books and brochures caught the eye of adults and children alike, “But where (is) he now? Is him sleeping?” asked one child, looking under our table for the Pygmy Possum in case perhaps he was napping on the crates of pamphlets.
He wasn’t the only child to stop at our table, one by one as parents paraded past, little hands would reach out towards the images of Percy, adorning the table and alerting families to the resources on offer, and in doing so they formed a human bridge between the B4 story and a brand new audience.
“Leanne Bock is an independent Naarm/Melbourne-based graphic designer and illustrator offering boutique services across print and digital. With a career spanning over two decades in Australia, the UK and France, Leanne’s specialised skillset comprises illustration, publication design, and high-end retouching.
Having worked on a wide range of communication projects in the fields of the arts, publishing, manufacturing, sustainable agriculture, health, education, housing and community development, she carefully crafts customised visual solutions by combining a comprehensive awareness of client needs and contemporary culture with a sensitivity for detail and a commitment to professional, personalised service.
Recent and current clients include Laurence King Publishing, Thames & Hudson, Soane Britain, Frasers Property Australia, Epworth HealthCare, Tasmanian Department of Education and Kids in Harmony.”
Percy the Pygmy Possum — Leanne Bock // Art Design Illustration
For more information about resources or inviting Percy to attend your community event, please reach out via b4@decyp.tas.gov.au