Miffy the Artist crochet keyring

Keep memories of your first gallery visit close with a Miffy the Artist keyring, handmade using traditional crochet techniques exclusively for Tate.

The keyring was created to celebrate Miffy’s 70th birthday, and is inspired by Miffy the Artist, one of the most enduringly popular children’s books in Tate Publishing’s history. The book tells the tale of Miffy’s first trip to an art gallery; full of inspiration, she decides to become an artist herself. Miffy’s creator, author and illustrator Dick Bruna, said that the story was a personal one for him, with an important message:

‘As far back as I can remember, and I am 81 years old now, I have always loved art... after the war, I went to Paris, and there I discovered the great works of Matisse, Picasso, Léger and Braque. This was the turning point in my life. I came back to the Netherlands, knowing that I wanted to be an artist, and full of inspiration based on the artistic styles I had seen. In a way, the simple story of miffy the artist encapsulates what happened to me. I hope it inspires parents to introduce art to their children as early as possible!'

Suitable for ages three and up, the keyring can be clipped to keys, bags, or zips to bring a little of Miffy’s creative charm wherever you go. It’s made exclusively for Tate by Just Dutch, whose toys are produced in seven different locations across Vietnam, employing underprivileged people. Each toy, made by hand, takes a number of hours to create, from crochet and assembly through to embroidery and final touches. Crochet is a popular pastime in Vietnam, and the company employs many female and disabled workers who would otherwise not be able to work.

• Material 100% Cotton and stainless steel