A New Mural Marks the Opening of a Unique Illustration Centre
Children’s author and illustrator Sir Quentin Blake has recently unveiled a new mural at his centre for illustration, just ahead of the venue’s grand opening. The Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration is set to open at a heritage site in Clerkenwell, central London, on June 5. This exciting new space will serve as a hub for all things related to illustration, showcasing the work of artists and writers from around the world.
The mural, titled A Bridge To The Past, was created by Sir Quentin himself and is now displayed in the centre’s cafe. The artwork depicts a bridge over the New River, which has been supplying water to London since 1613. While the bridge itself does not exist, it serves as a symbolic link to the past, connecting different eras of history through the depiction of people walking across it.
Sir Quentin, who is 93 years old, explained that the mural was designed to evoke the social history of the river and the long-standing relationship between people and water. He said: “I was especially pleased to be asked to produce a mural for Quentin Blake Centre’s cafe. You will see that I have drawn a bridge. It does not actually exist but I needed one to act as a bridge to the past.”
The figures crossing the bridge are all imagined by Sir Quentin, with the exception of two men fishing, who are based on a print made in the 1700s. The cartoonist took inspiration from the artwork of Scottish painter Isaac Cruikshank, particularly in how he illustrated men fishing in formal attire. This blend of historical and fictional elements adds depth to the mural, making it both visually striking and rich in meaning.
A Legacy of Illustration
Sir Quentin established a charity for illustration in 2002, with the goal of creating the UK’s first public venue dedicated to this art form. His vision has now come to life with the opening of the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration. The centre will feature regularly changing exhibitions on illustration across three galleries, making it a dynamic space for visitors to explore.
It is also reported to be the world’s largest space for illustration, offering a unique opportunity for artists, students, and enthusiasts to engage with the field. The centre will include galleries, a free illustration library, gardens, a cafe, and a shop, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
To celebrate its opening, the centre will be giving away free tickets to the first 50 people who can illustrate an official voucher collected on-site on the opening day. This initiative aims to encourage creativity and engagement from the local community.
The Mural’s Significance
A Bridge To The Past was created in ink by Sir Quentin and has been scaled up to fit the wall of the centre’s cafe. The mural is a testament to the artist’s lifelong dedication to illustration and his ability to bring stories to life through his work. It reflects the history of the New River and the role it has played in shaping the city of London over the centuries.
Through this mural, Sir Quentin has not only added a beautiful piece of art to the centre but has also created a connection between the past and the present. Visitors to the centre will be able to experience this connection firsthand, appreciating the history and culture that the New River represents.
As the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration prepares to open its doors, it is clear that it will become a significant cultural landmark in London. With its focus on illustration, education, and community engagement, the centre promises to inspire future generations of artists and storytellers.
