House of Illustration opens with Quentin Blake’s Inside Stories

The space – the world’s first dedicated space to showcase illustration, according to its founders -has been preparing for its launch with a series of ‘housewarming’ events throughout the spring.

Now, for its launch proper, Blake’s Inside Stories show will draw together artworks for iconic books such as Roald Dahl’s The Twits and Danny the Champion of the World; David Walliams’ The Boy in the Dress; and illustrations for books by John Yeoman, Russell Hoban and Michael Rosen.

These will be shown alongside sketches and storyboards, many of which have never been shown in public.

House of Illustration director Colin McKenzie says, ‘Inside Stories is the perfect show to open our new gallery. Quentin Blake is an illustrator of world renown whose work is instantly recognisable to millions.

This exhibition will offer audiences of all ages a unique insight into both his work and working methods.’

Elsewhere at the House of Illustration, visitors will have access to a wealth of other illustration-based exhibits, including picture books, animations, fashion illustration, scientific drawings and advertisements.

Blake says, ‘Illustration has been one of the most distinctive strands in the history of British art and I’m delighted that there will now be a dedicated space where everyone can view, discuss or learn about illustration; British and international; past, present and future’.

The identity for the House of Illustration was created by Hat-Trick.

Inside Stories runs from 2 July – 2 November at House of Illustration, 2 Granary Square, King’s Cross London N1C 4BH