Quentin Blake: Book covers

 Quentin Blake has been illustrating books for over 50 years. While he is best known for his illustrations for children’s books, his career began with covers for magazines and adult fiction.

Sixty covers from three celebrated publishers are in the show, ranging from some of Quentin's distinctive covers for Penguin paperbacks in the 1960s to his work for premium hardbacks for The Folio Society, and his illustrated covers for children’s books published by Jonathan Cape from the 1970s onwards. Through these eclectic and punchy designs Quentin demonstrates how his inimitable style always comes through, even when adapting to different subject matter and audiences.  First editions of these books show how he combines typography, dynamic layouts and his unique way of drawing to create playful designs.

Alongside examples of printed books, this exhibition features reproduction illustrations from Quentin's archive. 

Jemma Davey, Museum Service Manager at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Quentin Blake’s illustrations are loved and appreciated across the generations. Almost everyone will recall a book from their childhood they cherished that was illustrated by Blake.  I’m absolutely delighted we’ve been able to welcome the Quentin Blake: Book Covers touring exhibition to Oxfordshire this summer. This fabulous exhibition recalls his unique work and its diversity throughout the years, from his early work in the 1960s to his own books decades later.  We are looking forward to giving visitors of all ages the chance to rediscover his work, and learn more about how Blake brings his magical pieces to life”

Quentin Blake: Book Covers is a touring exhibition from Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration. Enjoy it for free at Oxfordshire Museum from 29 June until 8 September.