Quentin Blake Exhibition

Visit: Wednesday 9th January

"Maternity Hospital Angers"
Taken from "www.leamingtoncourier.co.uk"

I didn't know what to expect from the Quentin Blake exhibition at Knowsley Art Gallery. As a kid I liked Roald Dahl books but I can't remember ever really liking the illustrations in them, and nowadays I find them a bit creepy and odd. When we entered the exhibition space I saw some illustrations that brought back memories due to their distinctive style and although I didn't enjoy a lot of the pieces because of personal taste, I really liked the above image. The reason for this is primarily the mark making that it contains. I like ink drawings and the variation and sensitivity to line that they can portray. Also, the shape of the figure reminded me of a Rubens painting. I especially like the lines in the torso and legs for their differentiation.

I did, however, like the feel of the gallery space and the way it had been curated to appeal to children and families. I thought it was really inventive to incorporate a bedroom scene into the space, as well as the interactive element for kids. I know if I was one I would have really enjoyed being there, so I think it's a great way to encourage kids to be involved with art.

It was interesting to listen to the curator of the gallery explain all of the different elements and responsibilities she has to deal with in her job, as well as the involvement with other organisations and communities. I'd never been to Knowsley Gallery before but it was a really nice day out.