A new public art installation celebrating one of Britain's best-known illustrators has opened in London, with Quentin Blake: The Southbank Parade launching at the Southbank Centre on Saturday.

The free exhibition celebrates Quentin Blake, the acclaimed illustrator and author known for his distinctive drawings and long association with children's literature. The installation draws inspiration from the 1951 Festival of Britain and transforms parts of the Southbank Centre into a large-scale celebration of Blake's work.

Running from 19 September to 8 November 2026, the installation gives visitors an opportunity to experience Blake's artistic style in a public setting while connecting his work with Britain's cultural history.

The Southbank Centre is also hosting several other arts events this weekend, including Anish Kapoor's major exhibition, interactive installations and new visual-art projects.

The latest Blake installation highlights London's continuing role as a major centre for British illustration, public art and cultural exhibitions, while bringing an established British creative figure's work to a broad audience.

With its free entry and central London location, the exhibition is expected to attract families, art enthusiasts and visitors exploring the capital's autumn cultural programme.