Back in January, Londoners were treated to a showcase of work by world-renowned illustrator, Quentin Blake. ‘Quentin Blake NOW’ was the artist’s first commercial exhibition in decades – and clearly the public has missed him, because the show was hugely popular. Now he’s back again with a free exhibition of even more never-before-seen artworks with the ‘Quentin Blake: The QB Papers‘ exhibition.
Running from April 10 (that’s today!) until April 28, the new exhibition will take place at the same gallery as his recent show, over at Cromwell Place.
While ‘Quentin Blake NOW’ focused on Blake’s most recent works – some of which had been made mere months before they went on display – ‘Quentin Blake: The QB Papers’ is peering a little further into the past. But only a little bit! The new exhibition features works created between 2017 and 2019. And most of them have never been seen before!
On display at ‘Quentin Blake: The QB Papers’
Works range across a variety of subject matters and techniques, with over 60 pieces to take in. The exhibition will reveal a new depth to the artist, who is most well-known for his work illustrating Roald Dahl’s novels and writing. (But did you know he has written and illustrated over 500 books!?)
Throughout the show, the artist’s famous sense of humour shines through. Pieces are categorised under “five titles that are ‘quintessentially Quentin’ in their mix of humour, fantasy and poignancy”. We particularly love the idea of ‘The Alternative Sports Olympics‘.
Speaking of these pieces Blake said: “I’ve never been any good at sport. I just liked the idea of adapting Olympic events to everyday life – so if you’re throwing something, it’s the luggage.”
Oh, and if you see a piece that truly resonates with you – you’re in luck. Just like with the ‘Quentin Blake NOW’ exhibition, every piece on display at ‘Quentin Blake: The QB Papers’ is for sale. So you could take home a truly original piece of artwork from an iconic artist.
Said Quentin Blake:
“I was delighted by the response to my recent NOW exhibition at Cromwell Place and very pleased that the public are, once again, enabled and encouraged to see another selection of my work. Hurrah.”
”Quentin Blake: The QB Papers’ will run from April 10-28, 2024. Entry is free, and the exhibition is open from 11am-7pm between Wednesday and Saturday, and from 11am-4pm on Sundays.
Find out more about the exhibition here.
📍 You can find ‘Quentin Blake: The QB Papers’ exhibition at Cromwell Place, 4 Cromwell Place, SW7 2JE. The nearest station is South Kensington.