Illustration is the most accessible of the visual arts. For many it is their first experience of visual culture, and it can be an enormously effective learning tool. But illustration is often under-valued. House of Illustration is the first non-commercial gallery in the UK dedicated to promoting and supporting the art of illustration. Large collections of significant illustrations that exist in major galleries are rarely displayed, and the rich variety of illustration is rarely celebrated.

Our new gallery gives illustration the prominence it deserves. It is a vibrant, buzzing hub where the public can interact with illustrators via demonstrations, talks, debates and hands-on workshops, and enjoy superb exhibitions. It celebrates all illustration, past and present: from adverts to animation, illustrated books to fashion and industrial design. Our illustrator in residence scheme promotes young talent, and we have a dedicated space for our education work.