Quentin Blake illustration centre to open in spring

The UK’s first permanent home for illustration will open in central London in May to “celebrate its traditions” and welcome the “astonishing diversity” of art across the world.

An 18th Century waterworks in Clerkenwell is being transformed into the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, which was previously based in King’s Cross under a different name.

The £12.5m centre hopes to be the “world’s largest dedicated space for illustration”, with the idea 20 years in the making.

Sir Quentin said: “I am proud to think the centre has my name on it – illustration is a wonderful universal and varied language.”

Sir Quentin set up a charity for illustration in 2002 and the House of Illustration was based in rented space in King’s Cross between 2014 and 2020.

The new centre aims to open in spring with a solo exhibition in the Grade II listed Engine House by MURUGIAH, whose brightly coloured art is inspired by film, sci-fi, Japanese anime and 2000’s era pop-punk.

Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration’s director Lindsey Glen said: “Every day, people all over the world use illustration to share stories and ideas – to communicate, express, inform and persuade.

“Now, there will be a place where everyone can explore this important, yet overlooked art form, filled with imaginative exhibitions, installations, books, play and making.”

Other attractions will include a free library, learning spaces and art highlighting stories about the site’s 400-year history.

There will be illustrator residencies in London’s oldest surviving windmill and free public gardens.