Whitman’s Mother Goose

Explore a composite painting by Carmel artist Paul Whitman of numerous characters from nursery rhymes and fables, accompanied by music and narration.

Some eighty years ago, Paul Whitman, inspired by his children's enthusiasm for nursery rhymes, fables, and fairy tales, conceived a project for a composite of Mother Goose characters. After some twenty years of reflection (including consultation with his children and, then, two grandchildren), the artist realized his dream in a 44" x 60" oil painting depicting more than 120 figures. Though the finished work was a paradigmatic display of the artist's skills-especially in color and composition-Whitman and friends realized that the work had great motivational and educational potential for children.

This app presents the painting in an intriguing new way, thanks to Apple's multi-touch interface. Pinch to zoom in and out of the painting and tap on any character to bring up the associated rhyme or story accompanied by audio narration. Most of the characters also feature the traditional melodies with which they are associated. The application is presented in an immersive and fluid design that is simply captivating.

A few of the characters included:
‣ The Queen of Hearts
‣ Three Blind Mice
‣ The Tortoise and the Hare
‣ Little Miss Muffett
‣ Little Tommy Tucker
‣ Rock-a-Bye Baby
‣ Jack, be Nimble
‣ Three Little Kittens
‣ Old King Cole
‣ Little Jack Horner
‣ Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary
‣ Baa, Baa, Black Sheep
‣ Georgie Porgie
‣ Seesaw Marjorie Daw
‣ Jack and Jill

Features:
High definition graphics which take full advantage of the iPad and iPhone 4 Retina display
Over 60 characters with audio narration
Over 40 characters with music
Universal app is compatible with iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch