The Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration will open its doors in May 2026 and is said to become the UK’s only permanent venue for illustration.
Set in the grounds of an 18th century waterworks in Clerkenwell, the Centre will host regularly changing exhibitions across three galleries, showcasing the breadth and dynamism of illustration – art that communicates stories and ideas.
School visits to the Centre
Bespoke sessions for EYFS and KS1-5 students will be available and will focus on techniques such as Character Design, Creating Mood and Atmosphere, and Sequential Illustration.
All of the workshops will be led by experienced illustrator-educators, providing an opportunity for students to engage with practising illustrators using a variety of techniques and materials. These sessions can support any curriculum area.
“We shall celebrate its traditions and welcome the astonishing diversity of visual language from across the world. Hurrah!”
Sir Quentin Blake
The team will also offer interactive local history-inspired sessions about the New River for primary and EYFS pupils and will be developing SEND-specific events and sessions in 2026 as well as a range of free resources for schools.
Celebrating the language of illustration
More than 20 years in the making, the idea for the Centre came from the UK’s much-loved illustrator Quentin Blake, who established a charity for illustration in 2002. This led to the House of Illustration operating between 2014-2020 from rented space in King’s Cross.
The new Centre’s opening marks the realisation of Sir Quentin Blake’s long-held vision for a permanent national space where the “extraordinary wealth of illustration” can be exhibited, discussed and celebrated.
Blake said: “I have long dreamt of a permanent place with “Illustration” above the door, and now the amazing reality is that we have it. I am proud to think the Centre has my name on it – illustration is a wonderful universal and varied language. Here we shall celebrate its traditions and welcome the astonishing diversity of visual language from across the world. Hurrah!”
An artist, author and illustrator, Sir Quentin Blake had his first illustration published in Punch magazine in 1949 when he was still at school. Since then, he has written and/or illustrated more than 500 books, creating characters such as Mister Magnolia and Mrs Armitage and collaborating with people like Joan Aiken, Michael Rosen, John Yeoman and Roald Dahl.
Sir Quentin Blake was created CBE in 2005, received a knighthood for ‘services to illustration’ in the New Year’s Honours for 2013 and was appointed ‘Companion of Honour’ in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2022. He continues to draw every day.
Other highlights throughout 2026
The first exhibition to be announced, Murugiah: Ever Feel Like…, will delve into the artist’s kaleidoscopic, sometimes macabre world as part of the Centre’s opening offer. In his first solo exhibition, illustrator, artist and designer Murugiah brings together his eclectic love of Hollywood film, sci-fi, Japanese anime and 2000s era pop-punk to create a distinct display of his work.
A free library, learning spaces and introductory displays to illustration will also be on offer and visiting groups will be able to create, play and reflect in free public gardens, enjoy the café and explore a shop stocked with unique illustration gifts.
For more information on the Centre including booking details visit qbcentre.org.uk/schools
