JADAR

★★★★★

After the success of Julia and Axel – Thirty Years of Favourite Stories, Lowry were inspired to create another free family-friendly experience with an equally wide-reach. The newest addition to the Lowry’s galleries invites families into an immersive, educational, and beautifully decorated space in celebration of the works of renowned illustrator Quentin Blake, just in time to celebrate the venue’s 25th birthday. As a long time fan of Quentin Blake’s work, I couldn’t wait to see what was up their sleeves.

Quentin Blake (b. 1932) first published his illustrations in Punch at the mere age of 16 years-old, becoming the children’s laureate in 1999 and earning a CBE. He’s authored his own works such as Lovelykins as well as illustrating classic novels like A Christmas Carol and Waiting For Godot, and most famously bringing Roald Dahl’s extensive library to life; everything from Matilda and The BFG to The Enormous Crocodile and The Twits. He has also collaborated with David Walliams, Joan Aiken, John Yeoman, and Michael Rosen to name a few. The exhibition references around 20 of these books, and displays over 100 pieces of original concept sketches, and completed ink and watercolour illustrations, surrounded by large prints of his pieces bursting from the pages onto each wall and column of the gallery.

Every space is filled with his lively characters; cheeky cockatoos, grinning crocodiles, friendly giants, and doodled monsters. His work is so spirited and vivacious. An array of cabinets also showcase his books from across the world.

The biggest surprise of the gallery is an illustration of L.S. Lowry himself, created specially for the exhibition in a fascinating departure for Blake who rarely depicts real figures in his illustrations. The piece connects the universally loved and astonishingly creative artists together in one space in a touching tribute.

The gallery is curated for adults and children alike. Whether you grew up seeing Quentin’s illustrations or are a newcomer to his works, you’re sure to be amazed by the dynamic décor, colourful characters, and illuminating information.

The space is fairly low-tech, focusing on fun activities and ensuring the space can stay open without any malfunctions, however, there are a number of entertaining and educational videos dotted about the space to enjoy, along with informative descriptions of his pieces.

Its immersive environment feels like a playground of opportunities, even as an adult spectator. In the centre, a giganticus sailboat inspired by A Sailing Boat In The Sky sits amidst a vivid room of sketched birds, balloons and watercolour adventures. Also dotted around are Matilda-inspired book stools, a colouring station, a magnet maze puzzle, Mr Stink smell boxes, a dressing up area inspired by The Boy In The Dress, and peepholes peeking into a recreation of Blake’s real studio. Children are also encouraged to take a free handbook to write and draw in as they explore the exhibition.

Quentin’s scratchy inks and vivid colours feel especially poignant in a space like this, where children can experiment more freely and put their creativity to the test, while adults can enjoy illustrations from the books they grew up with in such an intimate and up-close setting.

The Lowry’s Director of Visual Arts, Michael Simpson, highlighted the importance of providing these forms of accessible and affordable family entertainment, stating:
“Lowry is always a terrific place for families, but never more so than in the holidays.  We are delighted that Quentin has been so supportive and generous and, like us, he wants children and their families to come and have a great time – and do plenty of drawing and writing themselves!”

Outside of the exhibition, families can even enjoy the kids’ activities in the Lookout, storytelling inspired by Angelica Sprocket, a book nook, a cute find the cockatoo trail, free portraits by local artists, an enormous crocodile statue, and a nifty £1 meal deal for kids (with any adult main), making Lowry a delightful hotspot filled with affordable opportunities for entertainment.

Across from the boat room, there is also a quaint Quentin Blake-themed shop, packed with everything from cute plushies, and special magnets, to books, pins, and glasses cases. I dare you not to try and leave without taking something home! 

This swashboggling and gloriumptious exhibit is wild, witty, and whimsical. Blake’s enigmatic illustrations spark the imagination as the fly from page to the walls. The variety of interactive activities along with his timeless art and fascinating information make for a surprisingly captivating experience for all audiences. Its easel-ly one of the best exhibits I’ve seen to date and I have an ink-ling it will be extremely popular this summer.

Quentin Blake and Me runs at Lowry (Galleries) until 4th January 2026.

Photo: Michael Pollard