100 Figures
5 October 2018 – 27 January 2019
Exhibited at the House of Illustration
An unprecedented insight into Quentin Blake's private practice as a figurative artist.
Portrayal of the body and gesture is the foundation of Quentin Blake's genius as an illustrator. His lifelong, private practice as a figurative artist has run alongside his world-famous work but has, until now, remained hidden.
This exhibition featured large-scale pieces created between 1950-2000, never seen before. The remarkable body of work revealed Blake's experimentation with materials, a more sculptural treatment of form and sensuous use of broad strokes.
The exhibition was accompanied by a book published by Tate in association with House of Illustration.
Selected reviews and articles
"It shows a superb side to Blake that we had no idea existed."
Londonist
Display view of 100 Figures: The Unseen Art of Quentin Blake at House of Illustration.
Oil paint on canvas, no date.
West pastel on paper, 1964.
Watercolour and pastel on paper, 1990s.