Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration

Arriving in Clerkenwell in May 2026, this major new culture venue dedicated to illustration is set to be the biggest venue of its kind in the world. Its founder and namesake, Sir Quentin Blake, is one of the most prolific British illustrators of all time, having drawn the covers for most of Roald Dahl’s novels and countless other children’s books over his near-60-year career.

Blake has been trying to get a gallery dedicated to illustration off the ground for a long time. Several years and £12.5 million later, his dream to create a space where the ‘extraordinary wealth of illustration can be exhibited, discussed and celebrated’ is finally becoming a reality.

An 18th century building previously used for waterworks will house the new centre, which will be made up of three different galleries, a library and learning spaces, And, of course, most important of all – there will be a gift shop and a café.

Be sure to check out its inaugural exhibition, MURUGIAH: Ever Feel Like…, a solo show for one of illustration’s most exciting rising stars, delving into the artist’s kaleidoscopic, sometimes macabre world influenced by Hollywood film, sci-fi, Japanese anime and 2000s era pop-punk.