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Exhibition

Quentin Blake: A Hundred Portraits

16 Mar-8 Sep 2024

Hastings Contemporary
Hastings TN34 3DW

Overview

This spring, the legendary artist Sir Quentin Blake returns to Hastings Contemporary with an exhibition of one hundred portraits.

Every artwork will be for sale and has been philanthropically donated by Sir Quentin, our Artist Patron, with prices starting at a few hundred pounds.

Quentin says, ‘For 40 years, I had an ancient house in Hastings Old Town, with boats close by, and then one day they built an art gallery at the bottom of the street. I have spent a lot of time over the years creating commissioned work and Hastings Contemporary inspired in me a freedom to make work for myself.'

The portraits on display will range from large works in watercolour pencil to postcard-sized pieces in biro.

Speaking about the creative process behind these works, Quentin says, ‘When I start to draw, I might have a sense of whether it will be a man or woman, young or old, but I discover the person while doing it… slowly I begin to meet the person and find out who they are.’

Drop into our Drawing Hub
Surrounded by the work of Quentin Blake, you are invited to play with a range of drawing materials and processes in our dedicated drawing space. Make your mark and use drawing as a tool to explore our exhibitions. A space for everyone of all ages and abilities, whenever the gallery is open. Materials provided.

Book now