By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Lilydale Library is about to become a little bit more magical, starting this Friday, 11 April, visitors will be able to take part in ‘Purple Pea Wonders’, a playful art installation that’s all about discovery, connection, and, of course, positivity.
The project, a collaboration between local artist Dani-Ela Kayler and emerging illustrator Mim White, is bringing whimsical postcards to the library’s shelves.
“The idea behind Purple Pea Wonders is to offer a simple, joyful moment that people can stumble upon unexpectedly,” Dani-Ela said.
“It’s about finding wonder in the everyday and making art accessible to everyone.”
These aren’t just any postcards, though – they’re little bursts of encouragement, designed to surprise and delight you when you least expect it.
The messages on the cards, like “Peas keep showing up” or “Peas hunt the good in others,” are paired with charming illustrations, all created to offer a moment of joy and reflection.
Over the course of four weeks, 700 of these postcards will be hidden in books across Lilydale Library’s collections. Some will be tucked into books on Reserve, waiting for the next person who borrows them, while others will pop up as you wander through the library’s shelves.
It’s like a treasure hunt, but with a twist – instead of looking for gold, you’re searching for a little nugget of positivity.
And the best part? These postcards aren’t just there to be discovered – they’re there to be shared. Each one has a QR code that lets you share your experience and maybe even leave your own little postcard-art for someone else to find. It’s a fun, spontaneous way to engage with the community and spread a little cheer.
Dani-Ela said what makes ‘Purple Pea Wonders’ so special is how it connects with everyone, no matter your age or interests – they have designed the project to be accessible and inclusive, reaching people who might not typically engage with the arts.
“Libraries are public spaces that bring people together, and this installation is all about creating those serendipitous moments that can brighten your day,” Dani-Ela said.
“Whether you’re a bookworm or just popping in for a visit, there’s a chance you could stumble upon something that makes you smile.”
The concept for ‘Purple Pea Wonders’ was born from Dani-Ela’s love for spontaneous moments of joy.
She wanted to create something that could touch people’s lives in unexpected ways, offering a reminder that positive change can happen in fleeting moments.
Based on the success of the pilot project, which was launched in Belgrave earlier last year, Dani-Ela said she knew this was a project that could spread good vibes and make people feel seen, even if just for a moment.
In the Belgrave pilot, feedback showed that people of all ages – from school kids to those in their 70s – appreciated these small, random acts of kindness.
Many shared how discovering a card made their day just a little bit brighter, whether they decided to keep the card or not. Some found themselves smiling simply because someone had thought to leave a bit of art and encouragement for a stranger.
That feeling of being seen, even in such a small way, is what Dani-Ela hopes to bring to the wider Lilydale community with this new installation.
‘Purple Pea Wonders’ also highlights the power of local collaboration.
Dani-Ela and Mim’s work was supported by Yarra Ranges Council through a small grant, which has allowed them to expand their project and bring it to new audiences.
Dani-Ela’s commitment to supporting local artists is evident, and Mim, who lives locally in the Yarra Valley, is excited to be part of this project, having worked on the illustrations since late 2023.
Mim, at just 19 years old, is a talented young artist with a diverse practice that spans watercolour, gouache, acrylic, and digital art.
She’s also a writer and musician, and her illustrations for ‘Purple Pea Wonders’ reflect her love for whimsical, vibrant art.
She’s drawn inspiration from everything from Studio Ghibli films to Japanese art styles, infusing each piece with a sense of wonder and playfulness.
“For me, this project is not just about creating art – it’s about bringing people together and sharing a moment of joy,” Mim said.
So, if you’re in Lilydale and in the mood for something a little different, why not head to the library and see what you can find?
You might just discover a ‘Purple Pea Wonder’ hiding between the pages of your next great read.
It’s a simple way to add a little spark to your day, and who knows – you might end up brightening someone else’s day, too.
The installation runs until mid-May, so there’s plenty of time to get involved. Borrow a book, look out for a postcard, and maybe leave one behind for someone else to find.
It’s a simple yet heartwarming way to engage with your local community and experience art in a new, accessible way.
