Lowry will be inviting Salford families to step into the world of one of Britain’s most beloved illustrators and authors Quentin Blake.
The vibrant new exhibition, Quentin Blake and Me, will be curated by the Lowry in collaboration with the artist and his studio.
Opening on Saturday 19 July to the public, the exhibition will feature over 100 of Blake’s instantly recognizable works, a full-size sailing boat for children to hop-aboard inspired by Blake’s story A Sailing Boat in the Sky.
As well as the National (Monster) Portrait Gallery alongside Russell Hoban’s storybook, Monsters, and a fiendishly difficult magnetic marble puzzle inspired by John Yeoman’s retelling of the voyages of the intrepid Sinbad.
The exhibition will also feature fun interactives, dressing-up, and opportunities for all young visitors to write and draw their own stories.
Known for his distinctive and humorous style, Blake has written or illustrated over 500 books, including working with authors such as Roald Dahl, David Walliams, and Michael Rosen.
His iconic illustrations have vividly brought to life some of the most beloved characters in children’s fiction, from The BFG to Mr. Stink, captivating the imaginations of readers young and old.
The magic and adventure of Quentin Blake will not be confined to the exhibition space.
Residents will be able to also attend free activities, that will take place across the building throughout the summer, and offer the chance to delve into some of Blake’s best-loved works in the Book Nook, and the bravest of visitors can snap a selfie with a brand-new Enormous Crocodile statue.
There will also be a wealth of fun surprises, laughter and imaginative fun to be enjoyed. Plus, Blake has even created a special drawing of LS Lowry himself to hang in the exhibition.
Ahead of the exhibition, Quentin Blake said: “It’s wonderful to be given such a generous and imaginative exhibition in such a special site. It was an extra pleasure to be invited to make drawings of Lowry himself.
“It’s also very good that visitors to the show are invited to draw and I look forward to seeing some of the results.”
The exhibition is a part of Lowry’s 25th Anniversary season, which has been curated to encapsulate what Lowry is all about – creativity, opportunity and making the arts accessible to all.
And this was furthered by Michael Simpson, Director of Visual Arts at Lowry, says: “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!”
The exhibition will be free to the public and will be on display until Tuesday 4 January 2026 – coinciding with The Enormous Crocodile the musical on its Lyric stage from 9th December 2025 to 4th January 2026.
Residents will be able to find out more and book free tickets here.
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