A significant milestone in the world of children’s literature and illustration is set to unfold with the grand opening of the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration on 5 June. Nestled within a historic 17th-century industrial site in Clerkenwell, London, this ambitious establishment is poised to become the largest institution dedicated to illustration globally. It aims to elevate the art form that has shaped children’s books, animation, and even digital culture, placing it firmly at the heart of British artistic life.
A Legacy of Creativity
The centre will eventually house a treasure trove of Quentin Blake’s work, featuring an impressive archive of 40,000 drawings from one of the UK’s most celebrated artists. At 93, Blake has dedicated over seventy-five years to visual storytelling, famously bringing to life the whimsical tales of Roald Dahl. His dynamic illustrations are synonymous with Dahl’s narratives, but they also extend to works by Michael Rosen, Sylvia Plath, and many others. Blake emphasises the universal appeal of illustration: “What is particularly wonderful about it is that it’s a language everybody understands.”
Historically, illustrators have often been relegated to the role of mere embellishers in the creative process. Yet, their contributions are crucial. For instance, when recalling The Twits, many might first envision Blake’s expressive art rather than Dahl’s prose. Axel Scheffler, known for his work on The Gruffalo, reflects on this dynamic, stating, “We are a bit in the shadow… it’s a very underestimated art form.”
The Collaborative Craft of Illustration
The art of illustrating children’s books is a collaborative and intricate process. Sarah McIntyre, a notable author-illustrator, champions the need for illustrators to receive proper recognition, having initiated the Pictures Mean Business campaign. She points out that crafting a picture book is far more than just the text: “I think illustrating a story is one of the primal human instincts.”
Jim Field, who illustrated Kes Gray’s Oi Frog!, highlights the additional narrative layers that illustrations can create. “I’m trying to weave in sort of extra subplots or let the reader learn more about the character,” he explains. This sentiment echoes through the creative community, with many illustrators striving to elevate their work beyond mere visual accompaniment to a vital storytelling element.
The Power of Visual Literacy
Illustration also plays a critical role in developing emotional intelligence in young readers. Ed Vere, creator of Waffles & Julius, shares how Blake’s demonstration of visual literacy helped children grasp complex emotions. “Quentin Blake asked some children what ‘indignant’ meant… and they all got the subtleties from his drawing.”
Sophy Henn, known for the Happy Hills series, argues against the notion that picture books are merely precursors to “proper” literature. She believes that they are rich with opportunities for developing empathy and critical thinking. “By getting two streams of information, you’re learning emotional awareness… in the world we live in today, that is incredibly important.”
The Joy of Storytelling
For many illustrators, the process of creating children’s books is not just a job; it’s a passion. Cressida Cowell, author of the beloved How to Train Your Dragon series, reflects on the origins of her characters and how they evolve from simple sketches into profound narratives. “I drew the first picture of Hiccup 30 years ago… just a little pencil drawing!”
The joy of silly storytelling is a common theme among these artists. Sue Hendra, known for her popular Supertato series, encapsulates this sentiment: “I am very serious about being silly.” The humour embedded in these stories serves as a vital tool for engaging children, making the reading experience not just educational but delightful.
Why it Matters
As the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration prepares to open its doors, it promises to be a landmark development in recognising the rich tapestry of British illustration. This new institution not only celebrates the legacy of Quentin Blake and his peers but also serves as a vital reminder of the importance of visual storytelling in childhood development. By providing a platform for illustrators and their art, the centre aims to inspire future generations and elevate the perception of illustration as a critical and respected form of artistic expression.
