The world's largest dedicated space for illustration is due to open in London next year.
The Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration will open its doors in Clerkenwell, set in the grounds of an 18th century waterworks which has never been open to the public before. It's located just behind Sadler's Wells Theatre.
MURUGIAH: Ever Feel Like… will be the Centre's first exhibition when it opens in May 2026, showcasing the Sri Lankan artist and designer's kaleidoscopic — and sometimes macabre — works, inspired by a combination of Hollywood film, sci-fi, Japanese anime and 2000s era pop-punk.
This will be followed by a series of annual exhibitions across three galleries, at the UK’s only permanent place for illustration.
Thinking this Centre for Illustration sounds familiar? Its previous incarnation, the House of Illustration, was open in King's Cross between 2014 and 2020 — also spearheaded by artist Quentin Blake — who is best known, of course, for his illustrations of Roald Dahl's books. However, that was a rented space, whereas this new project will be a permanent one showcasing the breadth and dynamism of illustration.
Says founder Quentin Blake:
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!
In addition to those three galleries, the Centre will offer free public gardens, a cafe and shop, a free library and learning spaces. Further opening exhibitions are due to be announced in early 2026, when tickets will go on sale.
The Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration opens in May 2026 at New River Head, Clerkenwell.
