Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration

Quentin Blake Centre is the UK’s first and only charity for illustration – art that communicates stories and ideas. We create and tour exhibitions that explore how illustration shapes our lives and we open up opportunities for creative expression, with a strong focus on people and stories that have been marginalised.

In May 2026 we will open our new, permanent home, within a beautifully-restored waterworks in Clerkenwell, Islington. It will be a vibrant place where everyone feels welcome: where the displays are unexpected yet relatable, where everything is accessible and everyone’s stories and ideas matter.

We are named after the illustrator and author Quentin Blake, a tireless champion for illustration who founded the charity and helped us establish our new home. Quentin’s illustrations will be on display at the Centre, alongside examples of illustration from around the world.

Find out more about us here.