The United Kingdom's first permanent home dedicated to illustration is scheduled to open in central London this May, aiming to celebrate the art form's rich traditions while embracing the remarkable diversity of illustration from around the world. The new facility will transform an 18th-century waterworks building in Clerkenwell into the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, marking a significant milestone for the illustration community.
The £12.5 million center represents the culmination of a 20-year vision and aspires to become the world's largest dedicated space for illustration. Sir Quentin Blake, the renowned illustrator who has created artwork for more than 300 books, expressed his pride in the project, stating: "I am proud to think the centre has my name on it – illustration is a wonderful universal and varied language."
The center's origins trace back to Sir Quentin's establishment of an illustration charity in 2002. Previously operating as the House of Illustration, the organization was based in rented space in King's Cross from 2014 to 2020 before relocating to its new permanent home. The move to the historic Grade II listed Engine House in Clerkenwell represents a significant upgrade in both space and facilities.
The spring opening will feature a solo exhibition by MURUGIAH, an artist known for vibrant, colorful work inspired by film, science fiction, Japanese anime, and 2000s-era pop-punk music. This inaugural exhibition will showcase the center's commitment to presenting diverse contemporary voices in illustration. Lindsey Glen, director of the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, emphasized the universal importance of the art form, explaining: "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."
Beyond exhibitions, the center will offer extensive public amenities including a free library, educational learning spaces, and special art installations that highlight the 400-year history of the historic site. The facility will also feature illustrator residencies housed in London's oldest surviving windmill, providing artists with unique workspace and inspiration. Free public gardens will complement the indoor facilities, creating a comprehensive cultural destination.
The transformation of the historic waterworks building continues as construction teams work to adapt the interior spaces for their new purpose as an illustration center. The project represents not only a significant investment in the arts but also the preservation and repurposing of an important piece of London's architectural heritage, ensuring that this historic structure will serve the community for generations to come.
