The world's largest permanent art gallery dedicated to illustration, the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, opens in London's Clerkenwell district on June 5, 2026. Housed in a former waterworks, the centre features three exhibition spaces, a library, learning rooms, public gardens, a café, and a shop. Its debut exhibition, "Murugiah: Ever Feel Like…," showcases the artist Murugiah's work blending sci-fi, anime, pop-punk, and psychedelic styles. The centre was first envisioned by Sir Quentin Blake, the beloved British illustrator known for his iconic drawings for Roald Dahl's books such as "Matilda," "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," and "The BFG," back in 2002.
This opening matters because it establishes the UK's first permanent institution devoted solely to illustration, elevating an art form often overlooked in favor of fine art. By celebrating Sir Quentin Blake's legacy and providing a dedicated space for illustration exhibitions, education, and community engagement, the centre aims to broaden public appreciation for the medium and inspire future generations of illustrators. It also adds a significant new cultural destination to London's art scene, timed for a weekend launch to attract visitors to Clerkenwell.