The Autumn Festival of Norfolk presents; ‘The Realms of Elsewhere’ by Paul Jackson
The Realms of Elsewhere is a pioneering 20-year project, culminating in a nine-book series whose inspiration spans nearly five decades, captured in other-worldly watercolour illustrations and porcelain sculptures. Paul, the mastermind behind this epic, seamlessly blends his roles as both writer and illustrator. As we celebrate the thirteenth year of this monumental endeavour in 2025, we celebrate the launch of Book Three and the first trilogy in an afternoon of storytelling, music, artwork and community.
“Almost too late, the leaders of the Uprising! realise that The Merchant is literally bending time.
That it’s not the island or the Master key that he’s after: It’s Immortality.
What they don’t yet know is how to stop him.
They also discover that their leader, Ramasha, is being blackmailed by the Merchant, who is holding
his wife, the Tzarina, as a prisoner.
‘It’s like playing the most dangerous game of chess’, says little Vasillisa.
‘We have to be brave enough to make the move he is not expecting’ ”
Paul will bring stories from all three books in the first trilogy to life in an exclusive performance evening. This event, set in the Music Room at Anteros, will weave narratives with live music composed and performed by Paul on piano, kora, and flutes.
Between performances, there will be a Q&A session delving into the creation of this expansive world series. Paul will discuss how his 47-year career as a sculptor, illustrator, and storyteller has shaped the intricate world of Elsewhere, comprising over 30 fantastical countries, each with its own myths, creation stories, and histories.
Accompanying Exhibition
In addition to the storytelling event, a comprehensive exhibition will showcase Paul's work.
Laid out in chronological order, the exhibit will feature illustrations, sculptures, audiobook extracts and backstories for each book and several short films.
Visitors are invited to explore Paul's journals and sketchbooks, gaining insight into his creative process for a truly immersive experience.
Signed copies of the first three books will be available to purchase on the night, along with limited edition trilogy box sets and artwork prints.
Currently, the first two books are available for purchase ahead of the launch – order your copy here. (LINK)
Join us for an afternoon of storytelling, music, and artistic exploration as we journey through The Realms of Elsewhere and celebrate Paul's extraordinary vision.
The launch event and performances will take place upstairs in the Music Room and will begin at 14:30.
Additionally, the Exhibition will be open to the public and manned by Paul between 10:00 and 17:00 in the week preceding the launch (Tuesday, 3rd November until Saturday, 8th November) in the Main Gallery.