Artist Spotlight: Quentin Blake and Roald Dahl, Champions of the World
There are few illustrators in the world whose work is as recognisable as that of Quentin Blake, and his relationship with the author Roald Dahl is perhaps one of the most loved partnerships in literature.
Now celebrating Blake’s 90th birthday, we’re also grateful for his work as a successful children’s author in his own right, creating stories and characters with vibrant illustrations in his own unique style.
Words and Pictures, Pictures and Words
Born in London in 1932, Quentin Blake says he has been drawing for as long as he can remember. Having spent his career in illustration and teaching, he has worked with numerous writers, providing his vision for classic books, and creating his own characters and stories too.
Working together from 1976 - with The Enormous Crocodile - until Dahl’s death in 1990, Blake illustrated all but one of Roald Dahl’s books and has been quoted as saying his favourite is ‘The BFG’.
While speaking of Blake, Dahl said he was “The finest illustrator of children’s books in the world today!”
For many of us, it seems impossible to imagine characters such as The BFG, Matilda or The Twits without visualising the illustrations we know and love. While, equally, it’s impossible to know if the classic stories of Roald Dahl would have had the same impact or appreciation without the accompanying artwork.
The Children’s Illustrator - Providing Memories and Inspiration
Exploring the work of the partnership, you may be inspired by your favourite character such as Matilda or The BFG, or a favourite moment like the discovery of The Golden Ticket in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Among the stories told by Blake and Dahl there are so many such moments and characters to choose from.
At the Rose Gallery, we have a wonderful collection which includes the text from the story accompanying the evocative illustrations. These enable us to relive favourite moments again and again, giving them pride of place on our walls or sharing them with those we love.
Many of the Quentin Blake and Roald Dahl pieces are given as gifts; stylish gifts for children, admired as bedroom decor allowing you to share a gift they’ll love now and treasure as they get older. Or maybe it’s another occasion, a bigger birthday or an exam success, these illustrations offer many opportunities to celebrate.
Limited edition prints are particularly sought after for those looking for a rare gift, but how will you choose? Will you be looking for the perfect message “‘It seems that everyone around here is loved’, said James”, or the iconic illustration such as the BFG having breakfast with the queen.
Revisiting the world of Blake and Dahl is a joy, with moments to cherish and moments which amuse. We’re happy to be able to provide so many opportunities to enjoy the Roald Dahl - Quentin Blake illustrations and if you want to find out what is available we’d be happy to help.
This year we’re celebrating Quentin Blake’s 90th birthday with some special Official Birthday Collector’s Edition Prints. We’d encourage you to visit the gallery or the collection online to enjoy these joyful pieces.
