YOUNG people are being given an exciting way in to the arts thanks to a new exhibition of work by legendary Roald Dahl illustrator, Quentin Blake.

The Lighthouse Poole is giving people aged between five and 11 the chance to achieve an Arts Award thanks to the special project.

Working with Downlands School, in Blandford – and inspired by Quentin Blake: Illustrating Verse, the first exhibition dedicated to Blake’s illustrations for poetry is showing at Lighthouse until January 6 –
the Arts Award will see the whole school, some 230 young people, visit over three days.

“Downlands Community School is proud to serve its unique community situated as it is in the middle of Blandford Camp,” a school spokesperson said.

“Children from services families experience high mobility so we look for opportunities to celebrate what Dorset has to offer, so this trip to Lighthouse Poole is a great addition to our school calendar, especially as it is focussed on the brilliant illustrations of Quentin Blake.”

Charles Shenton, creative engagement producer at Lighthouse, added: “This is an opportunity for Lighthouse to extend its Arts Award remit and deliver arts-based activities to young people who would face barriers to accessing culture.”

Downlands students will be at Lighthouse from November 20 to 22 following a study programme that follows the three-stage Arts Award Discover structure:
• View some Art
• Research the life and work of an artist
• Tell others what you have learned

The activities will be based in the Gallery, Sherling Studio and Top Floor Gallery.

Having successfully completed the programme, young people taking part will each receive a certificated Arts Award qualification.

Quentin Blake: Illustrating Verse can be seen at Lighthouse until January 6, 2024.